Researchers recruiting Midwestern farmers for study of how extreme weather, environmental concerns affect well-being.
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Photo courtesy of Karen Funkenbusch.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri researchers are looking at how weather extremes affect the mental health of Midwestern farmers.
Jennifer First, an assistant professor with the MU School of Social Work, leads the project with assistance from MU Extension natural resources specialist Michael Sunde. They are recruiting 40 farmers from the Midwest to understand how weather and environmental concerns affect farmers’ health, stress, sleep and well-being.
The Missouri Resource Assessment Partnership and the Center for Applied Research and Engagement Systems will provide geospatial analysis for the study. Faculty will look at data on past weather extremes and how it may affect farmer well-being.
Sunde says farmers must be 18 or older and farm in the Midwest. They will participate in a 45- to 60-minute confidential interview in person, by phone or by Zoom. Participants will receive a $40 gift card.
To participate, contact Megan Waddle at mnwtz3@missouri.edu or apply online.