The Center for Land Use Efficiency (CLUE) was created to bring IFAS agricultural and urban BMP programs together. Our mission is to provide science-based solutions to protect and conserve Florida’s valuable water and other natural resources by promoting policies and practices that lead to measurable impact.

Urban programs include the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program (FFL) and the Florida Master Gardener Volunteer program. These programs focus on topics such as resource (e.g. water and nutrients) efficient landscape design, irrigation water conservation, nutrient recommendations, consumer preference, and invasives. Download the CLUE 2023 Annual Report (PDF).

Other urban-focused programs include H₂OSAV, Sustainable Floridians Bench and Monitoring Program, Energy Extension Co-op, and Flood Resilient Communities.

Finally, within CLUE is the IFAS Agricultural Best Management Practices program. This program works closely with the FDACS OAWP to provide research-based information to develop best management practices (BMPs) and education to facilitate the adoption of BMPs.

Agricultural BMPs and urban BMPs, while distinctly separate, also share synergies. One example with much interest is compost amendments to promote soil health, increase water holding capacity, and provide nutrients. Research and demonstration is occurring in urban landscapes and there is interest in agriculture.

Our Mission

The Center for Land Use Efficiency promotes the adoption of science-based practices and policies that measurably support an environmentally and socially vibrant life for Florida’s citizens. Research and Extension programs largely relate to water quality and quantity and various best management practices (BMPs) in the following areas:

• Agriculture
• Urban and suburban landscapes
• Large-scale development

The center seeks to create an environment that values unique perspectives that are heard, appreciated, and respected at all levels.

Supporting Research

The CLUE Program Enhancement and Graduate Student Grants support research and extension projects, as well as graduate student activity related to the mission of the Center for Land Use Efficiency including projects related to agricultural and urban land use. Projects that involve collaboration among center faculty, affiliates, and state and county specialists are strongly encouraged.

The anticipated grant calls lists funding opportunities of interest to our faculty. It is managed by Melissa Friedman, CLUE research coordinator, who works with our faculty in grant writing and collaboration.