| Meeting Participants: | ||
| SAAESD John Beverly, TX Jim Boling, KY William Brown, LA Robert Cannell, VA Jerry Cherry, GA D. C. Coston, OK Everett Emino, FL Jim Fischer, SC Frank Gilstrap, TX Tom Helms, Exec. Dir. Richard Jones, FL Fred Knapp, KY Graham Purchase, MS Anna Rasberry, Asst. to ED Don Richardson, TN Larry Rogers, LA |
Charles Scifres, AR Dan Smith, SC David Teem, AL Greg Weidemann, AR Johnny Wynne, NC Advisory Comm. Reps. John Brandt, NC (AC7) Sam Cotner, TX (AC6) James Gilley, TX (AC5) Bob Merrifield, TX (AC13) Les Myers, VA (AC7)ESCOP Interns C. J. Fernandez, TX Dan Leatham, TX Bill Ocumpaugh, TX |
1890 Directors Marvin Burns, OK Sam Donald, Director Walter Hill, AL Horace Hodge, TX Charles Panton, NC Alfred Parks, TX Bobby Phills, LA Agency Representatives George Cooper, CSREES George Foster, ARS Jon Ort, CESSpeakers Ted Bauer, CRIS Rose Broome, CRIS Dave Nofziger (OK) |
Saturday, June 28, 1997
12:00-5:00 pm Conference Registration - Hilton & Conference Center 7:00-9:30 pm Social and Dinner - "Texas Style on the Grill"
Sunday, June 29, 1997
7:00-8:30 am Breakfast Buffet (for participants and spouses) 8:00 am SAAESD Meeting for Advisory Committee Chairs 8:45 am SAAESD Meeting (Go to Agenda) 12:00 noon Lunch Buffet (for participants and spouses) 4:30 pm Optional Tours on Texas A&M University Campus 1. Texas A&M University (driving tour) 2. Biosciences and Technology (program overview) 3. Veterinary Medicine (tour) 4. Crop Biotechnology (program and tour) 7:00-9:00 pm Welcome Reception at the Texas A&M Univ. Faculty Club
Monday, June 30, 1997
7:00-8:30 am Breakfast Buffet (for participants and spouses) 8:00 am Joint Experiment Station and Extension Meeting (Go to Joint Meeting Agenda) 11:00 am Joint Session - USDA REE Information System (REEIS) 12:00 noon 1997 Southern Region Mini Land-Grant Meeting: Luncheon and Keynote Address 5:15 pm Adjourn 6:15-9:00 pm "Texas Fiesta" Dinner (for participants and spouses)
Tuesday, July 1, 1997
7:00-8:30 am Breakfast Buffet (for participants and spouses) 8:00 am 1997 Sou. Reg. Mini Land-Grant Meeting reconvenes 11:30 am Adjourn 12:00 noon Soup/Sandwich Buffet (for participants and spouses)
For Southern Advisory Committee (AC) Representatives:
8:00 1. Update for Advisory Committee Representatives (Tom Helms)
For Southern Directors:
8:45 2. Welcome and Call to Order (D. C. Coston) 3. Review and Approval of Agenda, April Meeting Minutes, and Interim Actions of Chair (D. C. Coston)
3a. Sunbelt Ag Expo (David Teem) 3b. Dairy Consortium (Richard Jones) 3c. GPRA (Bill Brown) 3d. ARD Report (Sam Donald)
9:00 4. CRIS Taxonomy (Tom Helms)
10:00 Break
10:30 5. CRIS Overview and Demonstration of Services (Ted Bauer and Rose Broome)
12:00 Lunch
1:00 6. Benefits of GIS and WWW Technologies (David Nofziger)
1:45 7. ARS Report (George Foster) 8. SRRC Report (Jack Britt)
9. Proposed New and/or Continuing Activities: NRSP-1: Research Planning Using CRIS NRSP-3: National Atmospheric Deposition Program NRSP-6: Intro...and Eval. of Solanum Species DC: ...Processing of Poultry Products 10. Plants Labeled as Plant Pesticides by EPA (Johnny Wynne)
11. Future Spring and Summer Meetings (D. C. Coston)
12. 1999 Spring Meeting Invitation (Jim Boling)
13. Report from Ad Hoc Publications Committee (Charles Scifres)
14. Chair-Elect's Review of Assignments (Richard Jones)
15. ESCOP Strategic Planning Committee Report (Tom Helms)
4:00 16. Closing Remarks and Adjournment
Advisory Committee (AC) Representatives
Presenter: Tom Helms
Background
The SAAESD was unable to schedule a session with Advisory Committee Chairs during the annual spring meeting at Myrtle Beach. Thus, the Chairs and/or their representatives were invited to participate in this year’s summer meeting held in conjunction with Southern Region Mini-Land Grant Meeting.
The Executive Director will review several issues including:
- Recent changes in operating policies of the Association
- Current Publications Policy
- Current projects, currently active development committees, etc.
- Involvement of AC Chairs (Department Heads) in SAAESD meetings, decisions, etc.
- Image Enhancement activities
- Department Head’s role as an Administrative Advisor or on Advisory Committees
Action Requested
For information and discussion.
Action Taken
Informational notes and copies of handouts will be sent to each Advisory Committee chair and Administrative Adviser. Concerns were expressed regarding the following: 1) Language should be changed in the SAAESD Guidelines to state that a representative on an Advisory Committee should be the “designee of a Director” rather than specifically stating that a “Department Head or similar administrator” be designated as the representative; 2) Mechanics for distribution of materials for SAAESD review by Advisory Committees should be clearly defined. (Should distribution be through the Administrative Adviser or could it be directly to the Chair of the Advisory Committee?)
Background
Chair, D. C. Coston, will welcome participants and call to order the meeting of the Southern Association of Agricultural Experiment Station Directors.
Action Requested
For information only.
Action Taken
The participant list indicates that representation was as follows: 21 SAAESD members, 7 ARD members, 5 Advisory Committee representatives, 3 ESCOP Interns, 3 speakers, 1 CSREES liaison, 1 ARS liaison, and 1 Extension liaison.
Background
All members were notified in advance of the meeting that agenda briefs were available on the Association homepage for review. Additions to the agenda will be considered.
Minutes of the April 13-16 meeting held in Myrtle Beach are on the homepage for review. Directors were notified in May of their availability.
Interim Actions of the Chair and Executive Committee are as follows:
- Thank you letters were sent to the South Carolina administration and staff who coordinated the April meeting.
- Appointed D. C. Coston as Administrative Adviser to SERA-TF-11, “Utilization of University-Based Food Processing Centers”.
- Appointed D. L. Ingram as Administrative Adviser to SERA-IEG-27 (IEG-63), “Nursery Crop and Landscape Systems”.
- Appointed G. L. Jubb, Jr. to continue as Administrative Adviser to SERA-IEG-12, “Southern Forest Insect Work Conference”.
- Appointed G. F. Arkin to continue as Administrative Adviser to SERA-IEG-11, “Coordination of Oilseed Rape/Canola Programs in the Southern Region”.
- Appointed G. J. Kriz as Administrative Adviser to IEG-73 (S-257), “Classifying Soils for Solute Transport as Affected by Soil Properties and Landscape Positions”, effective 9/98 when S-247 terminates.
- Appointed J. H. Britt as Administrative Adviser to IEG-72 (S-248), “Enhancing Reproductive Efficiency in Cattle”.
- Appointed J. T. Neilson to continue as Administrative Adviser to IEG-51, “Mycotoxins in Food and Feed Grains”.
- Appointed E. R. Emino to continue as Administrative Adviser to IEG-25, “Plant Root Environment”.
- Appointed G. F. Arkin as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-12 (S-009), “Plant Genetic Resources Conservation and Utilization”.
- Appointed T. H. Klindt as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-11 (S-256), “An Evaluation of Factors Affecting International Trade in Commodities Important to the Southern Region”.
- Appointed P. R. Utley as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-10 (S-255), “Dynamic Soybean Insect Management for Emerging Agricultural Technologies and Variable Environments”.
- Appointed C. J. Scifres as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-09 (S-254), “Herbicide Persistence in Southern soils: Bioavailable Concentration and Effect on Sensitive Rotational Crops”.
- Appointed D. O. Richardson as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-08 (S-251), “Genetic Enhancement of Health and Survival for Dairy Cattle”.
- Appointed D. O. Richardson as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-07 (S-233), “Genetic Relationship to Growth and Reproduction in Diverse Poultry Populations”.
- Appointed S. A. Lommel as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-06 (S-228), “Development of Multiple Biotic Stress Resistant Forage Legumes”.
- Appointed E. R. Emino as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-05 (S-222), “Economic Issues Affecting the U.S. Fruit and Vegetable System”.
- Appointed F. E. Gilstrap as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-04 (S-220), “Improved systems of Control for Pecan Arthropod Pests”.
- Appointed J. A. Cherry as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-03 (S-213), “Reproductive Performance of Turkeys”.
- Appointed J. A. Boling as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-02 (S-145), “Nutritional Systems for Swine to Increase Reproductive Efficiency”.
- Appointed E. R. Emino as Administrative Adviser to DC-97-01 (S-103), “Technical and Economical Efficiencies of Producing, Marketing, and Managing Landscape Plants”.
- Appointed J. C. Lee as Administrative Adviser to NRSP-7, “A National Agriculture Program to Approve Animal Drugs for Minor Species and Uses”, to replace J. T. Neilson effective 6/30/97.
- Letter to CSREES requesting approval of DC95-03, “Breeding to Optimize Maternal Performance and Reproduction of Beef Cows in the Southern Region,” as a regional project upon approval of SRRC.
- Letter to CSREES supporting SRRC’s recommendation for approval of NRSP-5 .
Action Requested
Approval.
Action Taken
Additions to the agenda are: 1) Sunbelt Ag Expo (David Teem, presenter); 2) Dairy Consortium (Richard Jones, presenter); 3) GPRA Update (Bill Brown, presenter); and 4) ARD Report (Sam Donald, presenter).
The agenda with noted additions was approved on motion/second by Purchase/Scifres. Minutes of the April, 1997 meeting were approved on motion/second by Scifres/Fischer. Interim Actions were approved on motion/second by Purchase/Fischer.
Background
The Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition, a regional activity held annually in Moultrie, GA, is being held October 14-16, 1997. A new feature this year is a tent for institutional displays of research highlights. Literature, including a video and brochure, is available for further information.
Action Requested
For information only.
Background
The Southeast Dairy Consortium planning is moving forward. Dr. Roger Natzke and Dr. Ashby Green of the University of Florida have met with most states in the southeast to build a regional center composed of faculty in the various states. A center proposal is before the Fund for Rural America and efforts will be made to obtain a federal appropriation for five years to employ faculty that would later be picked up by the states.
Action Requested
For information only.
Background
Ongoing concerns and status of the process were discussed. Drs. Bob Robinson and George Cooper will be present in the joint meeting of Experiment Station and Extension Directors for futher discussions.
To assist each state’s preparation for GPRA compliance, the Southern Region Directors requested from CRIS a report by state of 1996 FTE and expenditure data broken down by GPRA goals and objectives. When all 1996 data is available, CRIS will compile the reports and send to the Executive Director for distribution to the individual states.
Action Requested
For information and discussion only.
Background
The Association of Research Directors (ARD) will sponsor the Eleventh Annual Biennial Research Symposium in San Antonio on October 1-4, 1997. Exhibitors are being sought. Registration and exhibit information will be mailed to each southern region AES in the near future.
ARD’s homepage is available at http://www.dsc.edu/ard/ard/html.
Action Requested
For information only.
Background
The Executive Director will share his responses to changes in the CRIS taxonomy proposed by the CRIS Enhancement Work Group commissioned by USDA/CSREES during 1996. The original report by the CRIS Enhancement Task Group A is available for study at http://132.198.178.39:80/cris/enhance/groupa.htm.
Action Requested
For information, discussion, and feedback.
Action Taken
Dr. Helms distributed copies of his review of the proposed CRIS taxonomy and asked for feedback by July 31. Comments will be incorporated and a new version for further review will be placed in the CRIS section on the SAASD homepage.
Overview and Demonstration of Services
Presenter: Ted Bauer and C. Rose Broome
Background
Ted Bauer, Director CRIS, will present an overview of CRIS and the CRIS Enhancement Committee. C. Rose Broome, Computer Specialist CRIS, will provide demonstrations of retrieving CRIS data via the Web (CRISTEL) and using the Web for submitting data to CRIS.
Action Requested
Discussion and participation.
Action Taken
Dr. Bauer presented an overview of the CRIS Enhancement Committee, highlighting the following points:
- Dr. Colin Kaltenbach and Dr. Kurt Feltner (AZ) funded by a “special allocation” from CSREES; initiated late 1995; approximately 40 persons attended.
- Focus on the improvement and expansion of CRIS to better meet the needs of the state partners, USDA agencies, OMB, Congress, and grantees.
- Participants on the Task Force include both users and producers of CRIS data: OBPA, OMB, GAO, Congress, DOE, NASA, NSF, NIH, NIST, USDA agency supporters of CRIS, Farm Foundation, National Academy of Sciences, the Agricultural Research Institute, and other agricultural organizations.
- The purpose of the national task force is to improve user access to CRIS information; update/expand the taxonomy to include emerging fields of science and to provide data on broad programs as well as individual projects; improve operational efficiency; and to enhance the timeliness and accuracy of data.
- The enhanced CRIS will lend itself to bridging with other information systems, including the eventual REE-wide information system, REEIS.
- Four working groups were designated:
- Taxonomy/Classification (Frank Flora, CSREES)
- Communication/Customer Relations (Len Carey, CSREES)
- Support for Project Planning (Tom Helms)
- User Friendly System Attributes (Pat Downer)
Additional information on charges and recommendations of each working group was distributed. (Copies available in the ED office). The CRIS enhancement web page is located athttp://ctr.uvm.edu/cris/enhance.
Ms. Broome gave an on-line demonstration of searching CRISTEL. Hands-on workshops are being conducted at CRIS on October 9 and November 20. For information on these workshops or to schedule a more appropriate time for training, contact CRIS at 301-504-5850 or by e-mail at cris@cris.nal.usda.gov.
Background
Many scientists participating in Regional Project S-257 (Classifying Soils for Solute Transport as Affected by Soil Properties and Landscape Position) have cooperatively conducted research on water and chemical movement in soils for nearly 20 years. They have now decided to assemble and synthesize their findings. They are creating electronic and paper documents summarizing findings. The goal is to enable others to understand the manner in which water and chemicals move through soils and to utilize their work while making decisions impacting the natural resources in the southern region.
In this presentation, Dr. Nofziger will demonstrate the current version of the web document and highlight plans for the final products. The document created for the world-wide web contains many types of background material including maps of soils, land use, geology, precipitation, crop production and value, irrigation, and chemical use. Maps were created using GIS technology and databases from many sources. Pictures are also included. Interactive web software which illustrates transport principles is being developed and will be incorporated.
The background material assembled helps scientists see and understand the large and diverse system that they are hoping to protect and manage. It is helpful for scientists as they step back and evaluate achievements, identify problems, and areas needing additional work. The material that is being assembled is thought to be useful to a diverse audience. The world-wide web will help make this information available to anyone. Similar approaches could be taken for many research areas.
Action Requested
For information only.
Action Taken
Copies of a handout are available from the ED’s office. Additional information and possible access to the password protected web site of S-257 can be obtained from individual members of the committee.
Southern Plains Area, Mid-South Area and South Atlantic Area
Presenter: George Foster
Background
Dr. George Foster, Acting Associate Area Director, Southern Plains Area, presents the following update of programmatic activities for the ARS areas covering the Southern Region.
High Priority Areas
The President’s Budget submitted to Congress in early 1997 provides an indication of ARS’ high priorities based on the areas proposed to receive additional funding. The ARS budget of $726.8 million recommends $36.5 million of increased spending for selected programs, but requests only $10 million in new funds, which means that $26.5 million will come from redirection of existing programs.
The areas with proposed increases are:
Food Safety ($ 4.1 million)
Emerging Disease ($ 5.0 million)
Grazing Lands ($ 1.0 million)
Genetic Resources ($ 2.0 million)
IPM/Biocontrol ($ 4.0 million)
Everglades Restoration ($ 2.0 million)
Human Nutrition ($12.0 million)
Proposed Location Closures
The budget also identified locations for closure. These locations are Mandan, North Dakota; Prosser, Washington; Orono, Maine; and Brawley, California.
Major Facilities Construction and Renovation
The budget includes $59.3 million for major renovation and new construction at several ARS locations. These include:
Renovation:
National Agricultural Library ($6.0 million)
Beltsville Agricultural Research Center ($3.2 million)
Eastern Regional Research Center ($5.2 million)
National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research ($8.0 million)
Southern Regional Research Center ($1.1 million)
Plum Island Animal Disease Center ($5.0 million)
New Construction:
U.S. Horticultural Crops and Water Management Research Lab ($23.4 million) – Parilier, CA
Melalecuca Research and Quarantine Facility ($ 4.0 million) – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
European Biological Control Laboratory ($ 3.4 million) – Montpellier, France
Areas Experiencing Redirections:
See the ARS Home Page at http://www.ars.usda.gov. Project evaluations by Area Directors and National Program Staff using formal project evaluation guidelines were a key factor in identifying projects/redirections.
National Programs
The ARS National Program Staff provides national program leadership for ARS. It is the responsibility of the National Program Staff to identify the high priority areas for ARS, to work with ARS line management and ARS scientists to develop specific programs, and to play the lead role in allocation of funds to individual projects. This staff plays the key role in the agency of developing and communicating the vision of the future program direction of the agency. It also plays a key role in representing the agency’s programs to customers, stakeholders, Congress, and the Administration. In particular the functions of the National Program Staff are:
- Policy: Provide programmatic guidance to focus ARS research on the critical needs of American Agriculture and to translate policies established by Congress and the Department into ARS programs.
- Planning: To establish the proper direction and scope of ARS research, and to organize and assign resources to ensure successful accomplishment of research.
- Evaluation: To ensure the highest relevancy and impact of ARS research.
- Information Management: To communicate information on ARS national programs, priorities, research progress and related issues to ARS scientists, customers, stakeholders, the Department, Congress, the American Public, and others and to respond to all information requests within the highest standards of quality, credibility, and timeliness.
The National Program has recently reorganized to increase its effectiveness in serving these functions. A major feature of the reorganization is the strengthening of a team concept where national programs are led by interdisciplinary teams rather than by a single National Program Leader (NPL). An NPL serves on different teams, which serves as an integrating function across the National Program Staff.
In addition to the reorganization, new National Program Areas and National Programs are being developed. The new programs are:
Animal Production, Product Value, and Safety |
Natural Resources and Sustainable Agricultural Systems |
Crop Production, Product Value, and Safety |
| Animal Germplasm, Resources, Genetics, & Reproduction | Water Quality & Management | Plant Germplasm Resources, Conservation, & Development |
| Animal Production Systems | Soil Quality & Management | Plant Biological & Molecular Processes |
| Animal Diseases | Air Quality & Mitigation | Plant Diseases |
| Animal Pests & Parasites | Global Change | Crop & Commodity Pest Biology, Control, & Quarantine |
| Animal Well-being & Environmental Stress | Grazing Lands Management | Crop Production Systems |
| Animal Product Development, Quality, & Marketability | Animal Manure, Waste Utilization & Management | Plant Product Development, Quality, & Marketability |
| Aquaculture | Bioenergy & Energy Alternatives | |
| Human Nutrition Requirements, Food Composition, & Intake | Integrated Farming Systems | Methyl Bromide Alternatives |
| Food Safety (animal products) | Food Safety (plant products) |
Strategic Planning:
See the ARS Home Page at http://www.ars.usda.gov for the ARS strategic plan.
Government Performance and Results Act:
ARS has prototypes in determining how to deal with GPRA. Part of the effort will involve changes in project statements and changes in reporting. The CRIS Project forms 416 and 417 may also need some changes.
Action Requested
For information only.
Background
The Southern Regional Research Committee presents the following report of recent activities:
- Proposal reviewed by SRRC and returned to Development Committee for further revision.
Proposal No.: SRDC 96-02 (To replace S-216)
Title: Food demand, nutrition and consumer behavior
Administrative Advisor: Dr. Daniel Smith
Action Date: 5/22/97 - Proposals reviewed by SRRC and Approval recommended to SAAESD Chair.
Proposal No.: NRSP-6
Title: Introduction, Preservation, Classification, Distribution, and Evaluation of Solanum Species
Administrative Advisor: Dr. Eric Young
Action Date: 4/18/97
Proposal No.: NRSP-3
Title: National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP)-A Long-Term Monitoring Project in Support of Research on the Effects of Atmospheric Chemical Deposition
Administrative Adviser: Dr. William Brown
Action Date: 4/18/97Proposal No.: NRSP-1
Title: Research planning using the current research information system (CRIS)
Administrative Advisor: Dr. Ken Koonce
Action Date: 5/29/97 - Revised Proposal Approved by SRRC Chair and forwarded to SAAESD Chair.
Proposal No.: SRDC 95-03 (To replace S-243)
Title: Breeding to optimize maternal performance and reproduction of beef cows in the southern region.
Administrative Advisor: Dr. Don O. Richardson
Action Date: 5/30/97
Action Requested
For information only.
Action Taken
SAAESD Chair expressed appreciation to Dr. Britt for accepting the assignment as chair of the Southern Regional Research Committee.
Background
NRSP-1, 3, and 6 are terminating in September, 1997. Proposals for renewal have been reviewed by the SRRC and recommendations forwarded to the Association chair. According to new policy approved in April, these projects must now be presented to the full membership of SAAESD for action.
A preproposal for establishment of a development committee to write a regional project on poultry processing has been forwarded to appropriate AC’s and the Executive Committee for their reviews and recommendations.
Activity (Adviser) / Request |
Funding Decisions (April, 1997) |
Recommendations |
| NRSP-1: CRIS (Koonce) Renewal |
Funding approved. | SRRC recommends approval based on progress in updating hardware, software, user-friendliness, and access to information. FINAL ACTION:Association voted to approve renewal. |
| NRSP-3: Atmospheric Deposition Program (Brown) Renewal |
Funding rejected. | SRRC recommends approval on vote of three to one. The dissenting vote was based on the cost of the program and its relative importance to other NRSPS-not scientific merit. One member abstained because of concerns relating to the scientific value of the data being recorded. In general, SRRC felt that the proposal is well founded and makes valuable contributions to the scientific community. FINAL ACTION: Association voted to approve renewal. |
| NRSP-6: Introduction, …Evaluation of Solanum Species (Young) Renewal |
Funding rejected. | Three of five SRRC members voted to recommend approval primarily because of importance of the potato as a food in the USA as well as the world. Importance of maintaining diversity among potato germplasm available to US potato breeders was recognized. One dissenting vote based on concerns about program management with suggestion that program review soon be conducted. The other dissenting vote based on program costs and low relative importance of NRSP-6 to other NRSPS – not lack of scientific merit on the part of NRSP-6. FINAL ACTION: Association voted (8-5) to approve renewal with request to CSREES that program review be conducted. |
| Development of New Processes and Technologies for the Processing of Poultry Products (Cherry) Establish DC for RRF project |
n/a | AC-4 (Food Science & Technology) and AC-5 (Ag. Engineering) endorse the request. AC-2 (Animal Science) and Executive Committee indicated approval. FINAL ACTION: Association voted to approve request for Development Committee (#97-13). |
NRSP-1: Research Planning Using CRIS
The CRIS project is revised and proposed for a five year extension. The revised project has been drafted taking into account recommendations of the CRIS enhancement task group.
JUSTIFICATION: There is a need to provide national non-Federal support for the continued operation and improvement of the USDA’s Current Research Information System. The SAES, participating 1890 Land Grant Institutions, Cooperating Schools of Veterinary Medicine and Schools of Forestry, national research planning committees, and various research interests in the public and private sectors use information available from CRIS. CRIS data is used to provide evidence of research activities, staff effort, and funds devoted to various commodities to State commodity groups and state legislatures; ESCOP uses CRIS to identify related research and prevent duplication.
NRSP-1 provides a mechanism for SAES to provide funding for the CRIS system. The SAES provides approximately 21% of the CRIS budget through off-the-top funding. Other funding comes from several USDA agencies including CSREES (25%) and ARS (36%), and the 1890 Land Grant Universities (4%). The Southern Region as well as at least one other region have approved $218,900 of RRF for the SAES share for FY 97-98 CRIS funding, contingent on the approval of the revised project.
NRSP-3: National Atmospheric Deposition Program
During the off-the-top funding discussion at the spring meeting, comments were made about the alleged unreliability of the NRSP-3 data. To clarify this issue, the comments made were in reference to a scientific meeting discussion about dry deposition measurements. NRSP-3 does not measure dry deposition; it is a wet deposition network. It is true that dependable dry deposition measurements have been problematic, but there have been no questions raised about the reliability or accuracy of the wet deposition data collected and archived by the NRSP-3 (NADP) program. The NADP program has extensive quality assurance procedures in place and, to the knowledge of the Southern Region administrative advisor, there have been no serious questions about the accuracy or integrity of the data.
Also during the spring meeting, questions were raised about the users of NADP data. The following abstract provides additional information from a compilation of those using the data.
Uses of National Atmospheric Deposition Program / National Trends Network (NADP/NTN) Data for Science Education and Environmental Problem Solving;Nov. 27, 1995 to Feb. 10, 1997. By Mark A. Nilles, John D. Gordon, and Charles J. Litteral, U.S. Geological Survey; and Gary Lear and Cathy Copeland, NADP Coordination Office, NREL, Colorado State University
ABSTRACT The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is the lead agency for the monitoring of atmospheric deposition in the U.S. The USGS supports 77 of the 191 sites in the NADP/NTN and provides nearly one-half of the network operating budget. In late 1995, NADP/NTN data were made available on the Internet athttp://nadp.nrel.colostate.edu/NADP/. Four hundred ninety six uses of data were identified as supporting science education. Students ranging from the fourth grade through Ph.D. candidates utilized the NADP/NTN data to analyze environmental data and its application in science education. For this group, the NADP/NTN data provide a readily available source of finalized, quality assured, and summarized on-line information for use in science education projects and assignments. Because of the national scope of the network, educators and students can easily locate data from sites near their community. In addition to educational applications, 565 uses of data were identified as supporting environmental problem solving. This includes uses for industry, environmental organizations, government agencies at the federal, state and local level, university researchers, and international organizations. For this group, the NADP/NTN data represent an essential source of environmental data that supports work on air and water quality issues, environmental regulation, materials effects, research, global change, agriculture, and hundreds of other significant applications.
Additional information on uses and on recent program developments was provided. Copies of handout available from ED office.
NRSP-6: Introduction, Preservation, Classification, Distribution and Evaluation of Solanum Species (Formerly Ir-1)
Potato is the most important vegetable in the US and the 4th most important world crop after rice, wheat and corn. About 1.4 million acres are grown annually in the US for a production of 45.9 billion pounds, worth $2.43 billion in farm receipts (SR=$206 M, WR=$1501 M, NCR=$491 M, NER=$229 M) and potato chips had retail sales of $4.82 billion in 1995. Potato is an increasingly popular component of the US diet. Only wheat flour exceeds potato in per capita consumption. There is a virtually exploding export market for processed forms. Thus improvements in the potato crop have a major impact on society and contribute to establishment of an agricultural system which is highly competitive in the global economy.
NRSP-6 has the following roles to play in the continued vitality of the US potato industry:
1. Genetic improvement in new potato varieties. Currently grown varieties are a relatively small and uniform group within a large and genetically diverse group of exotic potato species. NRSP-6 provides genetic diversity for future varieties with higher consumer acceptance, less reliance on chemical inputs, greater resistance to stresses, and improved yields.
2. Quarantine issues. Scientists who import potato germplasm must wait 12 years for the stocks to pass through quarantine. By preserving germplasm of interest at NRSP-6, the time and expense of quarantine testing is not duplicated, and US scientists can quickly obtain the materials needed for their research.
3. Preservation of biodiversity. Natural habitats in which potatoes grow are being increasingly disturbed, threatening the in situ genetic diversity. NRSP 6 is needed to set collection priorities and organize expeditions, preserving unique germplasm before it is lost. NRSP-6 also coordinates with foreign agencies and the US plant introduction and quarantine offices for acquisition of valuable stocks from other gene banks.
4. Technology transfer. Data related to the identification, characterization and evaluation of samples are gathered, organized and made available to users.
Objectives of the NRSP-6 project are as follows:
- Introduce additional germplasm to expand genetic diversity contained in the US Solanum germplasm collection.
- Classify accessions with species names which will serve as stable identifiers, and promote efficient utilization.
- Preserve all NRSP-6 germplasm in secure, disease free, and readily available form according to best current technology and conduct research pursuant to improving that technology.
- Distribute potato germplasm, associated data and advice to all researchers and breeders in a timely, efficient, and impartial manner.
- Evaluate the collection for as many important traits as possible.
- Collaborate with foreign potato gene banks for global database development, exchange of materials and technology, and free access of germplasm.
New Development Committee: “Development of New Processes and Technologies for the Processing of Poultry Products”
The poultry processing regional project has had a long and productive history in the North Central Region. It is proposed that this project entitled, “Development of New Processes and Technologies for the Processing of Poultry Products” become a new activity under the auspices of the Southern Region. The objectives defined in the proposed project are directly supportive of several Southern Strategic Research Plan opportunities. The Southern Region is also a concentrated area of poultry production. Investigators involved form the critical mass with a focus on poultry products to provide the necessary resources to approach poultry product quality and shelf life problems. Specialized facilities at several operating institutions will provide focal points for collaboration and minimize duplication of expensive equipment and facilities.
Action Requested
Vote by full membership of SAAESD is requested to approve each activity indicated.
Action Taken
All requests were approved. See notation in above chart.
Background
The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a rule that transgenic plants with disease or insect resistance be labeled as plant pesticides. A report from 11 professional scientific societies concluded that it is scientific indefensible to regulate the inherited traits of plants for pest and disease resistance under statutes developed specifically for chemical pesticide applied externally to plants.
Action Requested
Discussion and consideration of Association endorsement to oppose this proposed rule.
Action Taken
Association approved motion/second of Fischer/Cherry to forward a statement of opposition for presentation at the July 17-18 EPA Workshop and for presentation to ESCOP on July 28. The statement reads as follows:
|
Background
Options for alleviating close timing of SAAESD spring and summer meetings will be presented for discussion.
Action Requested
Discussion.
Action Taken
The current meeting schedule for SAAESD was reviewed. Discussion generated the following considerations as future Mini Land Grant meeting dates are set:
- Schedule meeting 2-3 years in advance
- Preferred time is mid to late September (avoid dates near the end of the fiscal year)
- Combine as many meetings as possible.
Background
Due to the need for advance scheduling, the Kentucky administration will issue an invitation for the Association to hold its spring, 1999 meeting in Lexington.
Action Requested
Acceptance of meeting location and time.
Action Taken
Association accepts the invitation to hold its spring, 1999 meeting in Lexington, KY.
Background
The ad hoc Committee on Regional Publications established by the Chair, SAAESD, during the 1997 Spring meeting in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina met by conference call on May 9, 1997 with all members present. (Members of the committee are Charles Scifres (Chair), Jim Boling, Nancy Cox, Tom Klindt, and Tom Helms.) The charge to the committee was to recommend a procedure for archiving regional publications that are published electronically.
Prior to the conference call, Executive Director Helms visited the National Agriculture Library to discuss the NAL’s role in preserving and distributing electronic regional publications. In a subsequent letter to Dr. Helms, NAL Director Pamela Andre’ made it clear that NAL did not have resources to preserve digital publications but is currently working on a plan to preserve digital publications for USDA.
The committee recommends the following:
- The home station for the regional activity (usually the AES housing the administrative advisor) retain five (5) hard copies for the regional archives.
- The Science Editor or equivalent at the home station continue to take responsibility for notifying libraries of the availability of the regional publication.
- The home station conduct a pre-publication survey of states in the southern region to ascertain the demand for hard copies to be published by the home station.
- The current policy for placing regional publications on the internet be used for regional publication and that the list of regional publications, including the archiving (home) state, be kept current by the executive director’s office and continue to be published on the SAAESD web site.
The committee agreed that the position of the NAL relative to regional publications invokes the broader issue of the perceived changing role of the NAL relative to the USDA partners. The committee encourages the Executive Director to take the issue to ESCOP for discussion with an eye toward a meeting with the Administrator, CSREES, concerning the future role of NAL.
Action Requested
For information and discussion.
Action Taken
Dr. Coston expressed appreciation to the committee for its work which culminates in approval of the above recommendations with additions or changes as noted:
|
Other questions regarding electronic publications will be researched by the Executive Director’s office. Those include: 1) use of ISBN numbers on bulletins; and 2) joining with Extension on publication efforts.
Background
As outlined in the SAAESD Guidelines, the Chair-Elect is requested to review all assignments and appointments prior to beginning his term at the close of the fall NASULGC meeting. Proposed appointments will be presented for review, discussion, and modification as needed.
Action Requested
Approval.
Action Taken
The following SAAESD assignments were reviewed and appointments (effective at the close of the November NASULGC meeting) announced:
- Southern Regional Research Committee – Frank Gilstrap (TX) and Nancy Cox (MS)
- Southern Rural Development Center – Jim Boling (KY)
- Resolutions’ Committee – Bill Brown (LA) and David Teem (AL)
- Regional IPM Policy Committee – Frank Gilstrap (TX)
Background
The current draft of the ESCOP Strategic Plan has been summarized by the ESCOP/SPC Chair, Dr. David MacKenzie, via a set of PowerPoint transparencies for presentation during each of the regional mini-land grant meetings.
Action Requested
For information only.
Background
Additional announcements and closing remarks will precede adjournment.
Action Requested
For information only.
Action Taken
Announcements were made as follows:
- Jim Boling announced that the National Genome Program received an Honor’s Award from USDA Secretary Glickman.
- Jim Fischer noted that the National Ag Biotech Council will be hosted by Clemson May 31-June 2, 1998, and will focus on gene escape and pest resistance. The meeting will be held in Greenville.
Dr. Coston noted that this meeting of SAAESD is the last official meeting of the full SAAESD membership for which he will serve as chair. He expressed his pleasure to have had the opportunity for service in this way to the association.
Meeting adjourned.
[End]