WASHINGTON, Sept. 30, 2008 - USDA's Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) will host a stakeholder interest meeting on Monday, October 6, 2008, to solicit comments regarding the implementation of the Smith-Lever 3(d) Extension Integrated Pest Management Competitive Grants Program (new EIPM), which was authorized under the 2008 Farm Bill.

When: Monday, October 6, 2008, 2:00 p.m.

Where: USDA Waterfront Centre, 800 9th St. SW, Washington, DC

The Research Title (Title VII) of the 2008 Farm Bill made two major changes that effect Smith-Lever 3(d) programs, including the Pest Management program. The significant changes to the program are 1) conversion to a competitive program and 2) expanded eligibility to include 1890 land-grant colleges and universities, including Tuskegee University and West Virginia State University. The University of the District of Columbia is also now eligible for these funds.

Written comments will be accepted until November 15, 2008, and can be submitted by email to newEIPM@csrees.usda.gov

. CSREES plans to release a Request for Applications for this program in January 2009.

Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, CSREES focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. For more information, visit www.csrees.usda.gov.