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Plans To Fund HBCU Research Facility Advances

Agricultural Research Service
/
United States Department of Agriculture

A research facility used to study hay production systems, small fruits and medical plants, among other things could receive a one-time lump sum of 1.7 million to help purchase necessary tools thanks to an appropriations bill that passed a committee today. 

Florida A&M Grad and Rep. Ramon Alexander (D-Tallahassee) is sponsoring a bill he says aligns perfectly with his alma mater.

“FAMU is Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University for a reason, emphasizing agriculture. And we’re really excited for the core mission of the institution in many respects as a response to this, and all the academics and research that’ll come along with it,” said Alexander.

In 2015 the University received more than 3,800 acres of land from United States Department of Agriculture. Alexander’s proposal would provide funding for what the university needs to continue their research.

“We need basic tools and things in place. It’s a wide canvas, it’s a blank canvas. It is a major land transfer from the federal government and the sky is the limit. And I know Florida A&M university will play a critical role in making sure they maximize all the available resources in the Brooksville area,” said Alexander.

The bill passed a committee Monday, but like all appropriations requests until the budget is finalized, there’s no guarantee of funding.

Blaise Gainey is a State Government Reporter for WFSU News. Blaise hails from Windermere, Florida. He graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He formerly worked for The Florida Channel, WTXL-TV, and before graduating interned with WFSU News. He is excited to return to the newsroom. In his spare time he enjoys watching sports, Netflix, outdoor activities and anything involving his daughter.