AI-LEAF (National AI Research Institute for Land, Economy, Agriculture & Forestry) is one of seven National AI Research Institutes (NAIRIs) announced on May 4, 2023.

AI-LEAF is a joint effort of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities (lead), Colorado State University, Cornell University, Delaware State University, North Carolina State University, and Purdue University.

We are:

• Combining knowledge from agriculture and forestry sciences with unique new methods in artificial intelligence (AI)

• Working to curb the effects of weather extremes and

• Lifting rural economies.

We are creating a new scientific discipline and innovation ecosystem, where AI intersects with smart agriculture and forestry practice. Our researchers are exploring compelling AI-powered knowledge and solutions. Examples include, using AI to enhance the measurement of greenhouse gasses, and creating specialized field-to-market decision support tools.

Key Goals:

• Improve accounting for carbon in farms and forests,

• Empower carbon markets,

• Inform decision-making and

• Expand and diversify rural and urban AI workforces.

The National AI Research Institutes (NAIRIs), which AI-LEAF is one of the seven, aim to catalyze collaborative efforts across institutions of higher education, federal agencies, industry, and others to pursue transformative AI advances that are ethical, trustworthy, responsible and serve the public good.

These institutes will:

• Bolster AI R&D infrastructure

• Support the development of a diverse AI workforce, and

• Drive breakthroughs in critical areas, including:

  • Agriculture

  • Energy

  • Cybersecurity

  • Education