Chapter 1

Ruminant Production Systems:

Goal:  Enhance focus and depth in undergraduate education, graduate education, research, and outreach in beef production systems and be recognized as the leading university program in beef production systems in the West.  This will include experiential learning in the animal sciences BS degree designed to add practical experience in the science, production, and business aspects of the industry to prepare students for leadership positions in ranch, farm, and agribusiness management.  Graduate education and research will focus on fundamental and applied research in breeding, nutrition, physiology, behavior, integrated resource management systems, economics, health, and range/forage management.  Outreach will span the breadth of the topics of research to assure that industry participants have practical knowledge in modern beef, dairy, and sheep production systems, biosecurity, economic and risk management, and response to policy and consumer changes. Outreach to youth involved in livestock production and judging events will continue as part of experiential learning in 4-H, FFA, and college judging.

Strategic Initiatives:

• Renovate the Animal Sciences Building
• Reposition the Integrated Resource Management teaching and research program.
• Replace critical faculty positions:  Nutrition, Muscle Biochemistry/Physiology, and Beef Environmental Systems.
• Bring the Southeastern Colorado Research Center on line.

Critical Resource Growth:

• Secure funds to renovate the Animal Sciences Building ($12 million). Align land and field laboratory facilities with future research and teaching directions.
• Significantly increase grant and contract revenue sources to support all programs.