Leopold Center cuts back on research due to budget

An Ames-based research center that focuses on farming and the environment faces an uncertain future due to state budget cuts. In the last special session, state legislators shifted one million dollars away from the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture in an effort to help balance the state’s 2003 budget. Center director Fred Kirschenmann says it’s forcing drastic measures.For the first time in 14 years, the center is not planning any new research projects. Also, events planned around the state to announce the results of various aspects of research are being cancelled. Kirschenmann says job cuts are still being considered. He says research projects that are now underway will continue. Kirschenmann says the budget slashing sends a message that -quote- “Iowa has given up on the long-term vision of an agriculture that is economically and environmentally sound.”