Conference noted::equitation

1417.0. "Help Save Massachusetts 4H and Cooperative Extension" by VMSSPT::PAANANEN () Mon Feb 18 1991 10:15

  As part of the state cost-cutting measures, the governor has proposed
  that the Cooperative Extention Service be eliminated. Also I have heard
  (from an alumnus) that funding to the Tufts vet school may be eliminated.

  So what is Coop Extension? It brings the expertise of the state university
  to the people that need it. It provides information and training for little 
  or no cost. It is the most efficiently run organization in the state due
  to the extensive network of volunteers. If the state cuts funding to 
  Coop Extension, then we will also lose the matching Federal funds that
  go with it. Massachusetts will become the *only* state without a 
  cooperative extension service.

  What does Cooperative Extension do for you? (The list is *very* extensive
  and I am only highlighting a few of the items.)

  --4H programs (yes, this means NO MORE 4H!)
  --job training, helping people become self-sufficient
  --environmental studies and information (water pollution studies and
      information on water tables and conservation)
  --agricultural education and information (from how to grow a simple
      garden to all phases of agricultural and livestock farming. They
      have horse care and pasture management info.)
  --community needs programs such as child care, health and nutrition,
      how to run a household)
  --pest and pesticide information (ever find a strange bug in your
      garden or basement? They will tell you what it is and what you
      can or should do about it. Cooperative Extension are the ones
      required to educate and license pesticide companies!)
  --camps and educational programs for children

  For more information on how you can help prevent this 
  tragic loss please call the Extension Service at 413-545-4800.

  Please contact your state representatives, and the following people:
  
  Governor William Weld 617-727-3600
  Thomas Finneran, House Ways and Means Cmte 617-722-2990
  Peter Nessen, Admin and Finance 617-727-2040
  Patricia McGovern, Senate Ways and Means Cmte 617-722-1481

  I have been told that LETTERS will really win this. Just a short letter
  stating your objection to the loss of this important organization is all
  we need. 15 minutes of your time and a 29 cent stamp! 

  

     Does anyone have addresses for the people listed in .0?
    		Cindy

    It looks as if we have save the 4-H for now. Every year they are going
    to cut it out. However, Governor Weld has proposed to Immediately
    (FY91) "eliminate County cooperative program, with 4-H exception" to
    save $500,000 and next year (FY92) to "eliminate county cooperative
    extension" while "The 4-H program will be transferred to another
    entity". to save $2,379,00.  IT looks as if the division of fairs
    has already been eliminated. The money was taking away from the fairs
    last Sept. So you may not see some of the usual fairs this fall.
    Call the noumbers in .0 or the general number at 617 722 2990 and ask
    for the office of the legislator you want to reach. Who evre represents
    you in state government has to vote the budget, so call.
    
    thx