Colorado State University Research, Programs Supported by Congress

Colorado State University last week was awarded $1 million in federal research support for its ongoing animal health and pest management research.

The research grants – totaling $960,000 – will help fund the university’s leading edge work with infectious animal diseases and insects that destroy crops.

"This backing enables us to deal directly with real food supply issues and provide the best, latest and most complete information and understanding to help prepare our nation to face issues ahead," said Anthony Frank, vice president for research and information technology. "We appreciate the vital support that Colorado’s congressional delegation provides by bringing this issue forward, and for gathering the needed assistance to continue this important work. We especially appreciate the leadership of our Senators Ben Nighthorse Campbell and Wayne Allard, and support on the House side by Congressman Bob Schaffer."

The appropriation funds:

• The university’s Center for Economically Important Infectious Animal Diseases received $640,000 to continue research into chronic wasting disease, brucellosis, bovine tuberculosis and vesicular stomatitis. Widespread outbreaks of such diseases could cripple the U.S. animal industry because of their impact on animal health, food supplies and the nation’s ability to participate in the global marketplace.
• Russian wheat aphid research was appropriated an additional $320,000. The insect cripples crops including wheat, which is used to produce flour and cereals and is a major crop in Colorado and the nation. With federal, state and industry support, Colorado State researched developed a wheat variety that is resistant to the aphid. This variety diminishes money lost to reduced wheat production and insecticide applications. Wheat crops can be entirely lost if infestations are left unchecked.