Possible Extension cuts worry Purdue

Purdue Extension and related agriculture programs, including 4-H, could be shrunk or even closed across the state if lawmakers approve proposed budget reductions.

The Indiana Commission for Higher Education has recommended that state lawmakers reduce line-item budget requests from public colleges by 15 percent for the 2011-13 biennium cycle and reallocate those funds for building repair and rehabilitation.

Overall, Purdue could lose $4 million per year from the programs it oversees, and agriculture related initiatives would take the biggest hit.