We face the daunting task of bridging a global agricultural productivity gap -- that is the difference between the historic rate of productivity growth and the pace required to address future needs. In short, we must double agricultural output while at the same time protecting our land and water resources for future generations.

While the problem of how we're going to feed the world's populations in 2050 may seem a distant future, if we don't start solving it now, tomorrow may be too late. Norman Borlaug knew that. Let's learn from his legacy.

We will begin honoring Dr. Borlaug's great works this week when agriculture's thought leaders, educators, public and private entities gather in  Washngton, D.C. for the first ever Global Harvest Initiative symposium to discuss ways to work collectively to close the productivity gap. Dr. Borlaug would have wanted it that way.