Please feel free to contact me at (217) 265-7580 or allarso1@uiuc.edu.

       My main efforts are focused on University of Illinois Extension's Initiative for the Development of Entrepreneurs in Agriculture.  This team performs research, provides assistance, and conducts educational programs related to alternative agricultural enterprises and value-added food systems.  We support University of Illinois MarketMaker, a free web-based mapping system that can create important links between food producers, consumers, and businesses in Illinois.

       I also work with the University's AgroEcology/Sustainable Agriculture Program (ASAP) in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES).  This team is highly visible in Illinois sustainable and organic agriculture, leading tours of sustainable agricultural ventures, conducting educational programs, and actively disseminating information on statewide events and developments.  ASAP is working to become the unified voice of the sustainable agriculture community in Illinois.

       My commitment to sustainable agriculture stems from a penchant for environmental stewardship and a desire to preserve the farming way of life.  I grew up on a small farm near the Illinois/Wisconsin stateline, where I milked cows and helped with field crops.  It has been in the family since 1875, and I aim to help keep it that way.

       After earning bachelor's degrees in Anthropology and Environmental Science at the University of Notre Dame, I came to the University of Illinois for a M.S. in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences under Dr. John Masiunas, with a focus on Sustainability.  I have learned, taught, and practiced organic-style vegetable production, and interacted extensively with organic growers and sustainable agriculture advocates in this state.  I have gained great insight into the possibility for diversity and profitability in our food and agriculture system.