I hope these few examples have clearly illustrated our serious facility prob- 

 lems. I'm sure you've observed a common theme throughout these examples, 

 that of our inadequate electrical distribution systems. 



As I mentioned, the utility systems at BARC have long been among our top 

 priorities for modernization. The support of the Department and the Con- 

 gress has allowed us to make significant progress in upgrading our electrical, 

 steam and water treatment facilities. 



Before closing, I would like to comment on our long-term modernization 

 plans at BARC. 



The studies that we've carried out strongly recommend that the optimum 

 modernization for BARC should include a mix of rehabilitating existing build- 

 ings and building some new replacement buildings. 



Those buildings that we would retain are those with solid superstructures. 

 This plan would allow us to demolish many of the deteriorated buildings and 

 to consolidate our research and support personnel into about one third of the 

 number of current buildings. 



As an example, our Climate Stress Laboratory, which is devoted to working 

 on the effects of global climate change on plants, is currently housed in nine 

 buildings, which makes inter- and intra-unit collaboration extremely difficult. 



I want to again thank the Committee for allowing me an opportunity to 

 express my concern over the plight of one of our Nation's great research treas- 

 ures. The mission of BARC and the commitment of its people to tackle the 

 most important national agricultural and nutritional problems remains strong. 

 However, our serious facility deficiencies impede our progress. 



Mr. Chairman, while I have focused primarily on BARC, it is important to 

 note that the problems are illustrative or facilities throughout the Agricultural 

 Research Service. The agency has projected facility needs to the turn of the 

 century to be over three-quarters of a billion dollars. 



I know that the leaders of the other federal research facilities who are also 

 appearing before this Committee share my hope that the help we need to con- 

 tinue our service to this Nation can be found, and that this assistance will be 

 recognized as one of our most important and wise investments for the future. 



Mr. Chairman, this concludes my prepared statement. I again will be 

 pleased to respond to any questions. 



[The prepared statement of Dr. Murrell, along with an attachment, starts 

 on p. 78 of Submissions for the Record:] 



Senator Sarbanes. Thank you very much. Dr. Murrell. 



Congressman Ramstad, who has not been able to be with us, has an open- 

 ing statement and I'll have that included in the record at the beginning of the 

 hearing immediately following my own opening statement. 



[The written opening statement of Representative Ramstad starts on p.85 

 of Submissions for the Record:] 



We will now turn to Steven Ficca, Associate Director for Research Services 

 at NIH. 



We would be happy to hear from you, sir. 



