The Everglades Research and Education Center (EREC) near Belle Glade is an agricultural and environmental research and education unit of the University of Florida's, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). The twenty-two scientists located at the Center are from various academic disciplines (see faculty list) and participate in interdisciplinary team approaches to investigate agricultural and environmental issues.    The mission of EREC is to conduct research and extension programs that will improve agricultural practices, conserve and protect soil, water, and wildlife resources, and develop cost effective and energy efficient systems that will permit the continued existence of agriculture in southern Florida.