Cynthia Daley

Personal Information

Dr. Cynthia A. Daley completed her BS in animal science at the University of Illinois and her PhD at the University of California, Davis in 1997.

Research and Professional Interests

Cynthia Daley is a professor within the College of Agriculture at California State University, Chico, where she supervises and directs the Organic Dairy Program (ODP), a program she founded together with dairy manager Darby Heffner and members of the organic dairy industry in 2006. The program has evolved into a very successful organic livestock enterprise at the University Farm, employing 10 students/semester, six directed work interns, and two full time staff. The program provides education and training in organic pasture management and livestock production practices to students and farmers through courses, workshops, field days and conferences.

With the launch of the ODP in 2006, Daley worked with a group of progressive organic dairy farmers to create the Western Organic Dairy Producers Alliance, a grassroots organization that serves as the voice for producers in the western region. Through these industry relationships the concept of the Regenerative Agriculture Initiative (RAI) was born. Dr. Daley currently serves as Co-Director of the Regenerative Ag Initiative which represents an interdisciplinary team of faculty and farmers who recognize the ecological benefits of regenerative farming practices. Agriculture, when done regeneratively, can be the solution to soil degradation and climate change.

Service to the College, University, and Community

Dr. Daley serves on various committees.

Additionally, Daley serves on the advisory board for the Western Regional Organic Dairy Producers Alliance, produces their quarterly newsletter and maintains their Web site at www.wodpa.org.

Professional Affiliations

• Western Organic Dairy Producers Alliance
• California Farmers Union