Recently, proposals of drastic and devastating cuts have been made to the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences by administration at the University of Georgia. Although none of the choices were made lightly, it is clear from this proposal that agriculture is bearing the majority of the $60 million in budget cuts. As we all are very aware, the current state of our economy is making everyone tighten our belts and make tough decisions; why should these programs be spared?

Agriculture is ranked first in the Georgia economy, our food and fiber industries provide hundreds of thousands of jobs and more than $92 billion in value added to our economy.

The research scientists at CAES provide information to farmers and citizens on a daily basis. New water-saving technologies, studies on bio-fuels and ways to gain energy from broken-down foods name a few of the projects. Research is helping more, though; other research is making our food supply safer and longer-lasting, breeding landscape plants requiring less water and pesticides, monitoring greenhouse gases and other pollutants, creating leaner cuts of meat through alternative livestock diets, creating new and useful products from crop by-products. All of this research does one great thing for consumers: It helps keep pricing lower by providing farmers the most updated resources possible so we are able to provide for Georgia and the nation.

None of the research would reach you, though, without the outreach of Cooperative Extension. They provide farmers and local citizens with information, classes and help through their agriculture and natural resources programs. Also, Extension provides training on food safety, storage and prep as well as housing and finance information to families. And of course not forgetting the 4-H program; many Georgians have been a part of programs which help develop leadership skills, life skills, communication and decision-making skills.

4-H’ers are among top students from all areas of our state. They are our future leaders. Ending this program would be felt throughout the state of Georgia.

We request everyone call or e-mail your state representative and senator. Although we know some cuts must be made, the additional cuts to CAES would have lasting effects on everyone in our state. They have by far seen their fair share of cuts already. Support the college and industry supporting Georgia.



William L. Brim

Tifton