The Birmingham, Ala.,-based magazine The Progressive Farmer ran a cover story in its March issue that explored the relevancy of the United State's Extension program nearly 100 years since its inception. The article is available on the magazine's website to subscribers only; a two-week trial subscription is free.
The article noted that Extension was formed in 1914 to channel the scientific knowledge of U.S. land-grant universities to American farmers. But since then, American agriculture has undergone dramatic change.
"In 1914, about 31% of Americans were farmers. Today, 2% of the population provides food for the rest of us," the article said. "That 2% is savvy. Many have college educations; they are smart businessmen and have a keen sense of how to produce a good crop or raise healthy livestock. If they have questions, they can afford to pay for advice and not depend on Extension."
Private certified crop advisors now soak up information from Extension and pass it on to their clients. As a result, farmers benefit from Extension information and research, but Extension doesn't get the credit, which hurts funding prospects.
Because of dwindling public funding, commodity groups and private industry have become major sources Extension research funding.
"That keeps programs afloat, but it also raises questions about objectivity," the story said.
The Progressive Farmer article suggested Extension must do a better job of branding its services and communicating with the community. Since most funding for regular programs comes from federal, state and local governments, it is "incumbent on Extension to cultivate relationships with as many legislators as possible."
The article outlined the 2009 reorganization of Iowa State University Extension led by Jack Payne. Iowa State consolidated operations, paring 97 county director positions down to 20 regional directors, some with responsibility for as many as nine counties. Extension specialists also took on larger geographical areas.
Payne told Progressive Farmer the restructuring was the toughest thing he has ever done in his life. He said he believes in the relevance of Extension, but budget pressure and evolution of the agricultural industry forced the change.
"I hope that as we go through this time of austerity people will understand the value of higher education and figure how to pay for it," said Payne, who is now a senior vice president of the University of Florida. "I believe that the country will come to its senses."
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