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• Potential perceptions of "regulation" as a role for ES, and thus the potential 

 -for negative perceptions of ES objectivity and credibility based on close 

 association with regulatory agencies. At the state and local level, both 

 funding and effectiveness could be jeopardized by this association with 

 regulatory activities. 



Placement of ES in a Subcabinent Unit with Other Science and Research Agencies 

 fe.g.. CSRS. ARS. ERS. NAL) 



Mr. Chairman, this structure would provide: 



• The potential for strong coordination between research and extension at the 

 federal level recognizing the importance of science-based and user-driven 

 research and extension education programs. 



• A clear demonstration of ES and its related state extension systems as a 

 science-based organization. 



• Potential to enhance the transfer and application of relevant technology from 

 the several research units within USDA. 



• Potential reduction in program scope and loss of the strong state/local support 

 base. If ES programs are defined only within the context of the current 

 agricultural research agenda, it may limit responsiveness on contemporary 

 issues such as community, economic, environmental and family needs. 



• Potential of major reduction of outreach mission through suggested mergers 

 with ARS and CSRS (e.g., H.R. 1122). 



Placement of ES with Other Education Information and Outreach Units 



Mr. Chairman, creating a new Subcabinet unit for Education and Outreach that 

 would include Extension and other agencies/units with educational and information missions 

 would designate ES as the primary educational unit of USDA. Other potential agencies and 

 programs would include, for example, the education and outreach components of the 

 National Agricultural Library, Higher Education, Agricultural Cooperative Service, Human 

 Nutrition Information Service, Ag in the Classroom, and "others. 



Such a structure would provide: 



• Consistency with a reorganization based on fimction. 



• Potential to enhance cooperation among USDA agencies with educational 

 responsibilities and increase efficiency among USDA outreach activities. 



A user-friendly source of information and education from throughout USDA 

 (and other agencies) for clientele, including producers and consumers. 



