WASHINGTON, D.C.–Last night, the U.S. Senate passed the Omnibus Appropriations Act for FY 2003 which includes funding for agricultural and natural resources programs. Senators Gordon Smith (R-OR) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) worked closely on the bill to obtain funding for numerous projects in Oregon.
"For Oregon to maintain its position as one of the world's leading producers of food and fiber, we must continue our research efforts," said Smith. "The research projects funded by this bill will help keep our farm economy on the cutting edge of agricultural innovation and production."
"These projects are designed to grow not just better crops, but better economies for our agricultural communities," said Wyden. "I'm pleased to see these Federal funds supporting important research and development projects all across our state."
The bill provides $325,000 in funding to support wetland research at the Oregon Garden project in Silverton. The Oregon Garden is a unique partnership that integrates the public and private sectors in achieving environmental goals, spurring the local economy, and showcasing Oregon's agricultural heritage.
Other projects that will receive funding are as follows:
Agriculture Research Service (ARS):
Gene Flow Research, Corvallis
$225,000 increase from FY02
Genetic Resources Research, Corvallis
$200,000 increase from FY02
NW Small Fruits Research, Corvallis
$250,000 increase from FY02
Shellfish Genetics Research, Newport
$250,000 increase from FY02
ARS Station, Burns
$750,000 increase from FY02
USDA Partnerships with Oregon State University:
Meadowfoam
$295,000
Grass seed cropping for sustainable agriculture (regional)
$457,000
Multi-commodity research
$400,000
Small Fruits Research
$400,000
Wood utilization (multi-regional)
$6,170,000
Natural Resource Conservation Service
Native Seed Program
$50,000
Oregon Garden
$325,000
Increased Technical Assistance
$1,000,000
The bill will now be sent to the president for his signature.