On September 7, the CLEAR Center sponsored the inaugural UC Davis Salute to Ag football game against Texas A&M-Commerce. The UC Davis Health Stadium was full of energy as students, agricultural organizations, and the local community gathered to cheer on the Aggies at the university's first-ever Salute to Ag Day. The first home football game of the season demonstrated an overwhelming support for agriculture, evident by the over 4,000 bodies cheering in the stadium – a true testament to the community's deep appreciation for farmers, ranchers and allied industry members.

In celebration of the special day honoring agriculture, agricultural organizations were invited to engage with attendees and share insights about their work and the industry. Among these organizations were the California Dairy Research Foundation, the California Cattlemen’s Association, the West Coast Advisors for California Dairy, the Dairy Council of California, the UC Davis Sheep Mowers, UC Davis’ Swine Facility and Feedlot Team, the UC Davis Vet Aide Club, the UC Davis Young Cattlemen’s Association, UCANR, UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the California Farm Bureau, and Yolo County Young farmers and Ranchers.

In an exciting halftime, Dr. Frank Mitloehner, Director of the CLEAR Center, shared about the valuable livestock sustainability research being conducted at the Center and the importance of connecting with the agricultural community. Reducing the climate impact of animal agriculture requires collaboration between researchers, farmers, and the public. The CLEAR Center not only conducts valuable research that helps the industry become more sustainable, but as one of its hallmarks, effectively communicates it in a way that is easily digestible for all audiences.

The strong turnout marks a positive start for a new tradition at UC Davis for years to come. To make things even more memorable, the Aggies took home the win against Texas A&M-Commerce, with a final score of 36-22!