Background: "FAIR 2002 is the outcome of the second national conclave to establish consensus on animal agriculture research and education priorities for the 21^st century. More than 250 leading animal scientists, farmers, ranchers, environmentalists, animal welfare proponents, commodity group representatives, government staff, rural advocates, and agribusiness and food service representatives gathered to determine the most pressing research and education needs of the animal industry. The science behind animal agriculture affects America•s international trade balance, our environment, our neighbors, local economies, and us as individuals. Competitive farmers and ranchers with the right knowledge and tools can ensure that livestock, dairy, and poultry enterprises thrive; consumers get safe and nutritious food; and wildlife benefit from improved animal health and enhanced environmental stewardship. Food animals fare better in the care of knowledgeable producers and processors, and communities reap financial rewards from food-processing industries. Gains such as these require public investments in research and education that, in turn, fuel the creation of industries and export profits that sustain communities and rural economies across the country. Keeping that edge will require a clear vision for the future and a strategic plan for research investments to attain the next generation of innovations."

Enhance Human Nutrition: Improve animal food products to help people live better, longer.

Protect Animal Health: Develop strategies and technologies to prevent, diagnose and treat animal diseases.

Improve Food Safety: Safeguard public health and reduce the risk of food-borne diseases.

Ensure Environmental Quality:Devise animal production and processing systems that sustain or improve the environment.

Promote Animal Well-Being: Enhance animal well-being throughout the food-production cycle.