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Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Timothy V. Johnson today announced nearly $3.7 million in grants for the University of Illinois that have been included in the U.S. House of Representatives Agricultural Appropriations bill.
The appropriations obtained by Rep. Johnson will continue an array of programs vital to continuing the University of Illinois’ leadership in the production and protection of a healthy food supply.
“The university’s proven leadership in these areas is recognized around the world,” Rep. Johnson said. “The quality of talent here makes my job easier in advocating for these resources. My colleagues in the House readily recognize the key role this university plays in the world agricultural community.”
The appropriations contain funding for four ongoing UI research endeavors.
Soybean Disease Biotechnology Center: $1,065,000 that will be part of the National Soybean Research Lab investigating genetic modifications to make soybeans a healthier food produce and resistant to diseases like soybean rust.
Livestock Genome Sequencing Initiative: $807,000 for an ongoing international program to create a genetic map for cattle and swine species, with promising implications for livestock safety, productivity and public health.
Future Foods: $659,000 for another year of funding for the interdisciplinary undertaking that investigates the relationship among compounds in foods, from processing to packaging to marketing.
Illinois/Missouri Biotechnology Alliance: $1,158,000 for a collaborative project with the University of Missouri to develop new uses and markets for corn and soybeans produced in the Midwest.
“This is terrific news for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and our College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences, said Richard Herman, chancellor of the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. “We thank Congressman Johnson for his strong support and leadership in obtaining funding for critical projects which will enhance our state land grant mission.”
Added Robert Easter, dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences: “These funds will clearly make a significant difference in our ability to combat soybean diseases, make critical advances in biotechnology, and ensure an abundant and safe food supply”.
In a related appropriation, the U of I is also awarded $500,000 for the expansion of Fourth Street to Hazelwood as part of the South Research Park.
The U of I appropriations are part of $6.2 million in appropriations Rep. Johnson has been able to obtain for the 15th Congressional District thus far this year. The appropriations approved by the House must still be approved by the Senate and joint conference committees.
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