In the research hearings we hold, we will attempt to determine 

 the proper means of funding at universities. That is, what is the 

 proper combination of formula funding, competitive grants, and 

 special grants to meet the needs? We will also seek to determine 

 what percentage of research budgets should be basic, applied, and 

 mission-linked, and what are the most proactive roles for extension 

 and teaching education programs. Most importantly, we will deter- 

 mine both how priorities are set and what they are. With the budg- 

 etary constraints we are now facing, it is essential to refocus our 

 priorities. To maintain the status quo will result in a further ero- 

 sion of what we are already doing as fewer dollars continue to be 

 spread throughout the system. 



We must begin including not just Congress in the process, but, 

 first and foremost, producers and consumers. Since they are the 

 ones the system was built to serve, they should provide major im- 

 pact about future direction. 



Two words will guide us as we move forward: Relevance and ac- 

 coiintability. Is the research relevant to consumer and environ- 

 mental concerns? Is it relevant to helping farmers and ranchers 

 maintain not only sustainability, but also profitability? Or is it only 

 relevant to maintenance of the status quo? And accountability. Are 

 we accountable with our resources? Do we use them in such a way 

 as to bring a return on our research investment? With your assist- 

 ance, we are excited about moving forward with confidence. 



Thank you. 



Before I recognize Mr. Allard, I would like to submit the charts 

 for the record along with any prepared statements from the 

 members. 



[The charts and prepared statements of Mr. Dooley, Mr. Smith, 

 and Mr. Kingston follow:] 



