Business Details
29 Years
experience
Environmental Stewardship Solutions for Agriculture
Founded in 1997, our organization has dedicated over 25 years to advancing environmental stewardship through science-based solutions. We collaborate with agricultural, environmental, and governmental entities to develop educational programs that promote sustainable practices. Our expertise lies in creating tools to protect water and air quality while supporting responsible pesticide and nutrient management. With a coalition-driven approach, we deliver resources like CEU-certified training, irrigation efficiency evaluations, and pollinator protection initiatives. Our team combines deep industry experience with academic rigor to address pressing environmental challenges.As a trusted nonprofit, we prioritize transparency in operations and measurable outcomes for stakeholders. Our work spans California's Central Coast and Central Valley, addressing regional agricultural needs while maintaining national relevance. Through partnerships with organizations like CDFA and Western Plant Health Association, we ensure our programs reflect the latest research and regulatory standards. Our commitment to innovation is demonstrated through tools like the DU & ROI Estimator software, which helps growers optimize resource use. We maintain authoritativeness through rigorous program evaluation and continuous stakeholder engagement.
Services
Nitrogen Management
Surface Water Protection
Irrigation Efficiency
Pollinator Conservation
CEU Training Programs
Pesticide Stewardship
Environmental Research
Coalition Building
Distribution Uniformity Analysis
Best Management Practices
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Founded in 1997 with a proven track record in environmental education
- Partnerships with leading agricultural and environmental organizations
- Science-based educational programs with CEU certification options
- Free technical assistance for irrigation efficiency improvements
- Specialized tools for pesticide and nutrient management compliance
Services
Nitrogen Management
Our nitrogen management program teaches the 4R framework (Right Source, Rate, Time, and Place) through video courses and field training. Growers learn to create nitrogen budgets while preventing groundwater contamination. The program includes CEU-certified modules for self-certified agricultural professionals.
Surface Water Protection
We develop best management practices to reduce pesticide runoff and protect surface water. Our resources include training videos on buffer zones, vegetated waterways, and irrigation runoff systems. Both English and Spanish language materials help California growers comply with environmental regulations.
Irrigation Efficiency
Our DU & ROI Estimator software analyzes irrigation system performance and calculates financial benefits of improvements. Qualified growers receive free distribution uniformity evaluations to reduce water waste, lower energy costs, and improve crop yields through optimized irrigation practices.
Pollinator Protection
We create educational materials about safe pesticide use around pollinators. Our resources help growers protect honey bees and wild pollinators while maintaining effective pest control. The program includes research reports and habitat improvement guidance for agricultural landscapes.
CEU Training Programs
We offer continuing education units through video courses on crop-specific nitrogen management. Growers earn credits by watching research-based videos and completing quizzes. Our training meets California Department of Food and Agriculture requirements for certified professionals.
People
Parry Klassen
Executive Director
Over 20 years of experience in agricultural sustainability initiatives. Leads CURES' strategic direction and program development while maintaining key industry partnerships.
Jill LeVake
Board Chair
Industry expert with extensive experience in government relations. Provides strategic guidance on policy matters affecting agricultural and environmental stakeholders.
Ben Sacher
Secretary Treasurer
Seasoned professional in agricultural regulatory affairs. Oversees financial stewardship and ensures compliance with nonprofit governance standards.
Gabriele Ludwig
Board Member
Environmental affairs specialist with deep expertise in sustainable agriculture practices. Contributes technical knowledge to program development and evaluation.
Renee Pinel
Board Member
Executive leader with broad experience in agricultural stakeholder engagement. Helps shape coalition-building strategies and industry outreach initiatives.
Questions
What is CURES' primary mission?
We create science-based solutions to ensure safe pesticide use and plant growth practices that protect both people and the environment.
How can growers earn CEU credits?
Through our nitrogen management video courses on the FREP Continuing Education platform, with topics covering multiple California crops.
What irrigation assistance programs exist?
Qualified growers receive free DU evaluations to improve water efficiency and reduce operational costs through the CDFA-funded program.
How does CURES support pollinator health?
We develop educational resources about responsible pesticide use and habitat conservation to protect honey bees and native pollinators.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily California's Central Coast and Central Valley regions, with statewide program components available online.
