MADISON, WI (WTAQ) – The UW Extension service is bracing for what could be its largest downsizing since the 1980’s.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says the division that includes local agricultural agents could lose 65 to 80 positions at the county level. That’s if lawmakers proceed with a proposed $300 million cut in the university’s state funding.
Until last week, Republican leaders had talked about reducing the size of Governor Scott Walker’s proposed funding cut. But now, all bets are off after state revenue projections show no additional hikes in tax revenues due to economic growth.
All 72 counties have at least one UW Extension agent. They deal with agriculture, family living, and 4-H youth programs.
For now, the Extension has 314 county-level posts in which the counties share around 40 percent of the cost — and some counties say they can’t afford it. Rusk County cut out its agricultural agent, and combined two others into a single 4-H agent with more duties.
The Extension says agents in other counties are serving Rusk County at least until the end of June.
UW officials say rural areas would be the hardest hit by a massive cut in the Extension service. Extension and Colleges chancellor Cathy Sandeen says the programs are efficient, and very frugal.
(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)
