A Resolution in Support of Agriculture Research Funding for the Land Grant University System
WHEREAS: the nations Land Grant University system was founded during the administration of Abraham Lincoln and has provided most of the agriculture research accomplished in the U.S.; and
WHEREAS: Land Grant Universities continue to play a vital role in agricultural research and the dissemination of those research results to farmers and consumers; and
WHEREAS: federal funding for Land Grant Universities has been waning; and
WHEREAS: state and federal governments are facing increased financial deficits due to declining revenues and the current recession; and
WHEREAS: State Agriculture and Rural Leaders recognizes these financial challenges; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that State Agriculture and Rural Leaders urge Congress and the administration to recognize the importance or Land Grant Agricultural research in the future of the global food supply and at a minimum, continue current funding and where appropriate, increase funding support for agricultural research and extension; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this resolution be sent to the agriculture committees of the state and provincial legislatures, the United States Congress and Secretary of Agriculture