2013 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
1) Review progress and goals of National Issues Task Force. 2) Develop strategy for increasing success with Specialty Crop Block Grants in each state. 3). Workshop individual skills at persuading essential stakeholders that supporting horticultural science is essential.

The sources of financial support for U.S. horticultural scientists are changing rapidly. The Federal government continues to be an important source, but the amount and purpose of that funding can change markely with legislative and administration action. ASHS communicates actively with stakeholders and decisionmakers to keep the importance of horticultural science visible and prioritized. ASHS also provides a platform to help members have influence on their future both in Washington D.C., and in their home community. This workshop will have an update on ASHS' participation in the wild action regarding the new Farm Bill and budget stalemates, and what are the next steps. One of the most popular programs in Congress is the Specialty Crop Block Grants to the states; so popular that funding is slated for increase to $70 million per year despite the overall budget reduction. Is this funding stream providing as much horticultural research and extension in your state as it should? Find out how to help increase that amount, if needed. Finally we will have interactive practice with engaging decisionmakers who influence overall funding for our members' work, so that more are empowered to do their part.

Abstracts:

• Congress.jpg (83.8KB) - Abstract Text