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present system for prioritizing new facility construction has the potential for 

 disorder. There are presently many projects still under construction while new 

 ones are being continually added. At the present time there are too many 

 projects being initiated without sufficient funds available to finish them. We 

 have detailed information on projects currently underway which we can supply 

 at the Conunittee's request, 



ARS has many facilities btiilt 20 - 50 years ago that require replacement 

 or modernization. There are planning and design, initiatives underway to 

 construct or modernize a number of facilities after a multiple step process to set 

 priorities. In regard to closing and/or consolidation of facilities, ARS has 

 closed more than 30 facilities after very careful evaluation of many factors. 

 Implementation of closure actions follows Secretarial and Congressional 

 approvals and user and cooperator contacts. 



At this time I have completed my prepared remarks and would be pleased 

 to respond to any questions which the committee may wish to direct toward me 

 or my colleague, Dr. Finney. 



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