When formulating its recommendations for the Trustees, the Research Committee particularly favours activities that seem likely to lead to improved systems of managing land, water, plants and animals in ways which will enhance the productivity and quality of food, fisheries, plants and forests, while simultaneously conserving the natural environment, preserving biodiversity, avoiding pollution of soils and water, and enhancing human welfare. In assessing applications for new projects, scientific merit is of paramount importance.

As at January 2012, the Foundation had funded 89 completed projects with grants totalling $5,188,863.
39 current projects are presently being funded with grants totalling $2,677,060.