Washington, D.C. -  The fiscal 2006 agriculture appropriation conference report approved in by the House Friday contains more than $3.7 million in initiatives for the University of Illinois that will help secure Illinois’ leadership in the production and protection of a healthy food supply.

            “This appropriation covers a wide spectrum of programs and specifically recognizes the expertise and talents of many of our people at the University of Illinois,” said Rep. Timothy V. Johnson, who was instrumental in helping usher these specific appropriations through the legislative process.

            “The resources and people here at our doorstep are working in ways that will benefit not only Illinois farmers but the nation’s food supply for years to come.

            “It is particularly satisfying that with this appropriation and in this tight budget climate, my fellow legislators in the House and the Senate also recognized the key role Illinois plays in the nation’s agriculture community, from the highest levels of research to the guys in the field,” Rep. Johnson said.

            The appropriation contains funding for four UI research endeavors.

            Future Foods Initiative: $666,000 for the second year of funding for the innovative and interdisciplinary undertaking that investigates the relationship among compounds in foods, from processing to packaging to marketing.

            Ill-Mo. Biotechnology Alliance: $1,170,000 for a collaborative project with the University of Missouri to develop new uses and markets for corn and soybeans produced in the Midwest.

            Livestock Genome Sequencing: $815,000 for an ongoing international program to create a genetic map for cattle and swine species, with promising implications for livestock safety, productivity and public health.

            Soybean Disease Biotechnology Center: $1,076,000 that will be part of the National Soybean Research Lab investigating genetic modifications to make soybeans a healthier food product and resistant to diseases like soybean rust.

           “We are very grateful for this support,” said Bob Easter, dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. “This critical funding will enable us to continue the progress we’re making in the key areas of biotechnology, enhanced nutrition, combating soybean diseases, and improving livestock productivity and public health.”

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