NATIONAL CENTER FOR APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY

Working for a sustainable future since 1976

TRUSTED

Since 1976 NCAT has provided relevant information, individualized technical assistance and in-depth resources to support sustainable agriculture and accessible energy solutions.

PRACTICAL

NCAT’s trusted knowledgebase provides scalable solutions to strengthen self-reliance, reduce poverty, and protect natural resources. NCAT is all solutions, not sensation.

CONNECTOR

NCAT facilitates meaningful connections among sustainable agriculture producers, renewable energy experts, innovators, researchers, and industry professionals. Our role as a connector results in valuable networks and lasting change.

Matt Steiman showing us the 150,000-gallon anaerobic digester tank at Dickenson College Organic Farm.
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A Mid-Scale Anaerobic Biodigester Creates On-Farm Renewable Energy

By Chris Lent, NCAT Agriculture Specialist I’ve always found ways to turn “waste materials” into useful resources on the farm fascinating. On my farm, I tried to reuse and recycle resources as much as possible to close the off-farm…

Harvesting the Sun Short Film Available Now!

In this new short film from NCAT’s AgriSolar Clearinghouse, the leading voices of the agrivoltaic movement come together to share their stories and shine a light on a climate solution that can increase farm profitability, save valuable water, improve the soil, provide shade for farm workers, develop valuable ecosystem services, and increase the resiliency of rural communities.

Armed to Farm blew me away. Two years into my own agricultural business and I still reflect on the immersive experience as a highlight. The combination of in-field and in-class activities kept me engaged and paved the way. I would highly recommend the program to any veteran who is looking to turn their passion into a successful business.

“NCAT’s ATTRA Sustainable Agriculture program influenced a whole livestock industry in the U.S. to rethink how they were managing their livestock in a way that regenerates the soil.” 

“When it comes to energy professionals, NCAT is on speed dial. NCAT helped us every
step of the way in creating an energy efficiency grant program in Montana.”

“NCAT’s Soil for Water program offers a chance to learn new things and to apply it to your land and to improve.” 

“The Armed to Farm program is THE reason I was able to get started in farming. The opportunity to connect with other veterans and support each other’s dreams was life changing. The education and support from NCAT/ATTRA guided me through starting a profitable farm that fuels my new–found passion for farming.” 

“The thing that really makes Armed to Farm better than the rest is that it’s the complete package. They do a really good job of presenting a lot of information and resources in a short amount of time while also creating interface time with local veteran farmers. Being able to go for free and learn as a veteran getting into agriculture – that’s just absolutely invaluable.” 

Matt Steiman showing us the 150,000-gallon anaerobic digester tank at Dickenson College Organic Farm.
, , ,

A Mid-Scale Anaerobic Biodigester Creates On-Farm Renewable Energy

By Chris Lent, NCAT Agriculture Specialist I’ve always found ways to turn “waste materials” into useful resources on the farm fascinating. On my farm, I tried to reuse and recycle resources as much as possible to close the off-farm…

For one Montana rancher, success starts in the soil

Combining worms and biochar has big potential for soil health In the dry, rugged hills of Eastern Montana, third-generation rancher Steve Charter has managed to carve out a living practicing his own brand of regenerative agriculture. It starts…
NCAT's Linda Coffey works with sheep during a training.NCAT

Program Expanded for Women Beginning Sustainable Livestock Farms

‘Women, Livestock, and the Land’ Adds Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Florida, and Georgia JACKSON, MS – Women who are beginning sustainable livestock operations in five Gulf-region states will soon have the chance to join a program…

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