University of Missouri Extension centers may be in jeopardy

Gov. Jay Nixon has proposed cutting $14.6 million in funding to the state's University of Missouri Extension centers.

The news has Extension center officials concerned about the effect the 50 percent funding cut could have on business and agriculture programs it provides to the state's residents.

Ronda Elfrink, Extension representative of 16 counties in the region, fears the cuts may also lead to a 58 percent reduction in staff personnel.

"We'll lose a lot of critical programming which are needed, especially in these tough economic times," Elfrink said. "Our programs mesh with what the governor is trying to do and to cut the funding would be devastating. We want everyone to contact their legislators and the governor's office to have this turned around."

Extension center initiatives include 4-H Youth Development, Master Gardener, continuing education, business development, agricultural enrichment and professional development.

Elfrink said the programs have resulted in the addition of 770 jobs and $87 million to the state economy through pasture-based dairies, helped 24 north Missouri communities get $173,583 in grants and helped entrepreneurs find $105 million in new financing and created 9,700 jobs.

Furthermore, Elfrink said for every $1 million invested in its programs, $24.7 million is generated through new jobs, sales and investments, $1.2 million in reduction in families' medical costs and $1.8 million in increased tax revenue.

Missouri Farm Bureau president Charles E. Kruse said his organization is alarmed at the proposed cuts.

"A proposed funding reduction cuts deep into programs that provide valuable services to Missouri farmers and also help fund agriculture research, youth development initiatives such as 4-H, and local nutrition programs," Kruse said in a written statement. "Missouri Farm Bureau's long-standing relationship with our state's extension programs dates back to the early 1900s.

"These programs have in years past and continue today to provide a critical link between higher education and Missouri citizens," he said. "In the coming weeks, we will be talking to legislators about our concerns and examining more closely the implications and magnitude of these proposed budget cuts."

However, Scott Holste, a spokesman for Nixon, said the governor remains committed to higher education. The state's public universities agreed last month to stop raising tuition if lawmakers spare them from the recession-driven budget cuts likely to hammer the rest of state government.

Holste emphasized the university system has the flexibility to prioritize how funds are spent.

"When you're in tough economic times, tough choices have to be made," Holste said. "Certainly the governor has show his commitment to higher education and will continue to do so."

bblackwell@semissourian.com

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