Gov. Butch Otter and University of Idaho President M. Duane Nellis have jointly announced an indefinite delay in the proposed closure of the Parma Research and Extension Center, a closure that drew an outcry of protest from fruit growers and others in the area. "Given the current budget situation, and my newness to the university, the governor and I agreed on the need to take additional time to conduct a more thorough review of the Research and Extension centers statewide," Nellis said, during a joint announcement with Otter at the center in Parma. Click below to read the full announcement from the university.

University of Idaho Delays Decision on Parma
           
PARMA, Idaho – The University of Idaho announced jointly with Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter today that it will delay any decision to close the Parma Research and Extension Center. The length of the delay is undetermined at this time.

"We recognize the vital role and impact of agriculture in this state, and for the state's land-grant university," said President M. Duane Nellis. "Given the current budget situation, and my newness to the university, the governor and I agreed on the need to take additional time to conduct a more thorough review of the Research and Extension centers statewide."

The announcement came during a joint appearance at the university’s Parma Research and Extension Center.

As part of the enhanced review, the university will assess the cost benefit, viability and impact of its statewide Research and Extension operation. Simultaneously, the university will look at engaging the agricultural industry and others to partner collaboratively with the university to ensure the success of all its Research and Extension centers.

Ongoing dialogue regarding the possible closure of two or more centers is the direct result of legislatively mandated budget reductions – a $3.2 million reduction in state funding for Agricultural Research and Extension Service for fiscal year 2010.

Idaho is not alone in facing the possibility of significant restructuring in Agricultural Extension service. Oregon State, Utah State, Washington State and other universities with Extension missions are facing similar difficult situations and decisions.

Discussion about the University of Idaho Research and Extension centers began in January with state leaders and others with a stake in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and Idaho's agriculture industry. Conversations started in late March with a statewide committee whose 19 members represent diverse backgrounds and interests.

In addition, the university consulted widely with many of its partners in the agricultural community about what it faces and continues to welcome ideas about how to continue its research and Extension mandate in ways that can accommodate its challenging financial situation. This new review phase will build upon the foundational analysis and work of the earlier committee.

The Research and Extension centers operate on 4,000 acres statewide, including locations at Aberdeen, Caldwell, Dubois, Salmon, Hagerman, Kimberly, Moscow, Parma, Sandpoint, Tetonia and Twin Falls.

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