Program: Agricultural experiment station
Appropriation: |
GF/GP: |
$36,848,700 |
|
Total: |
$36,848,700[9] |
Program Description:
This appropriation funds the Agricultural Experiment Station (AES). AES, based at Michigan State University (MSU), conducts research on topics relating to Michigan agriculture. Past projects conducted by the station include the Status and Potential of Michigan Agriculture Project (SAPMA), which assessed the status of 22 Michigan agricultural commodities and developed estimates for potential growth; and the Status and Potential of Michigan Natural Resources Project (SAPMINR), which looked at Michigan’s natural resources, identifying trends and future opportunities. In addition to the MSU office, AES has 15 branch offices throughout the state.
Recommended Action:
As with other industries, from automobiles to furniture to chemicals, the Michigan agriculture industry should be responsible for conducting its own research. Michigan farmers, their trade associations, and the Michigan agriculture industry at large — not the state of Michigan and its taxpayers — should determine what research is needed and provide for its funding. This program should be eliminated. Savings: $36,848,700.
Program: Cooperative extension service
Appropriation: |
GF/GP: |
$31,782,600 |
|
Total: |
$31,782,600[10] |
Program Description:
This appropriation funds the cooperative extension service. This program conducts a variety of educational programs throughout the state for non-student residents. Examples of courses offered include handicapped horseback riding, sewing, pottery, etc.
Recommended Action:
The cooperative extension service program (co-op) could be handled effectively by the private sector. Indeed, there are a number of private schools and other organizations throughout the state that already offer co-op style classes to people of all ages. The state should discontinue this program. Savings: $31,782,600.
Program: Japan center for Michigan universities
Appropriation: |
GF/GP: |
$305,300 |
|
Total: |
$305,300[11] |
Program Description:
This appropriation funds the Japan Center for Michigan Universities. This program, in arrangement with universities throughout the state, organizes a student exchange program with the University of Shiga, Japan. It also provides assistance for students from Michigan Universities while they are studying in Japan.
Recommended Action:
This program duplicates a number of programs conducted by universities and private organizations throughout the state; it should be eliminated. Savings: $305,300.
Program: Morris Hood, Jr. educator development program
Appropriation: |
All from GF/GP: |
$165,100 |
|
Total: |
$165,100[12] |
Program Description:
This appropriation funds the Morris Hood, Jr. educator development program. This program aims to increase the number of minority students, especially males, enrolling in and completing K-12 teacher educational programs at the baccalaureate level. The MHED program specifically targets African Americans, Native Americans, and Latinos.
Recommended Action:
This program should be eliminated. If a university places a high priority on such a program it could be funded with revenues raised through the private fundraising efforts of the university itself. Savings: $165,100.