Various processes for stakeholder input are utilized on an on-going basis. This input is used to shape our long range plan of work along with adjustments to our annual activities. North Dakota research and extension also maintains strong relationships with state and county government officials. State legislators and county commissioners actively participate in meetings and workshops and provide feedback directly to individual faculty and administrators. These processes assure that high priority issues facing the people of North Dakota are addressed and that programs are directly supported by North Dakota citizens. Examples of stakeholder input processes undertaken are as follows:

SBARE held monthly meetings during the fiscal year that were also attended by department chairs and research extension center directors. The meetings focused on assessing current programs and identifying issues and needs for new programs. Individual citizens and commodity group representatives provided direct input. The state legislature amended legislation to include two standing legislators as members of SBARE. This arrangement helps assure that legislative support is maintained. Three sub-committees, Crops, Livestock, and Other Programs, were organized as working groups for SBARE. These committees met several times with industry representatives to gathering additional input on issues and needs. SBARE also administers agricultural gas tax funds used to support research programs. Producers and industry representatives serve on commodity committees, which prioritize projects and award funding.

Ten MPU advisory committees each met at least twice during the past fiscal year, once in the spring and again in the fall. The spring meetings dealt with issues and needs identification while the fall meetings were dedicated to program review. This input is utilized by extension agents to develop local programs and to set direction for the State Extension Plan of Work. Many MPU advisory committee members work directly with their local extension agent on program development. MPU advisory committee members are nominated by their local county.

County commissioners actively participate in county extension program reviews. The county extension budgeting process also results in strong engagement from county government. This arrangement helps assure that extension programs are grass roots driven and are focused on local issues and needs.

The seven research extension centers (RECs) held winter meetings with their citizens advisory boards that focused on issue identification for both research and extension programming. REC staff not only used this input to set program direction for the center but also conveyed it to main station researchers and to SBARE. Summer meetings and field tours were also held to review programs and observe the progress of research activities.

Irrigation Summit & Caucus

An irrigation summit was held at NDSU during the fall of 2000. The purpose was to promote effective communication among irrigation interests in the state and NDSU, identify processes for maintaining strong communications, and prioritize research needs. Research scientists presented a synopsis of their current research and their goals for the future. Industry representatives and producers identified additional research issues and needs. This information is used to guide irrigation research and extension program priorities. NDSU research and extension are also assisting the North Dakota Irrigation Caucus develop a long range strategic plan for future irrigation and high value crop development.

The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association Research and Education Committee meets with NDSU faculty and administration on a regular basis to review current research and extension activities and provide input on issues and concerns. NDSU faculty and administration also meet with the Lamb and Wool Growers, Milk Producers, and Pork Producers on a regular basis. This interaction is used to reaffirm that livestock program priorities are addressing the needs of North Dakota livestock producers.

North Dakota Nutrition Council, established in 1980, has more than 180 members who identify nutrition education needs. The council has representation from several agencies and organizations, each with a specific nutrition focus. North Dakota nutrition issues are identified by the membership and directed to the appropriate agency or organization for action. NDSU Extension Service specialists and agents have taken the lead educational role in addressing several nutrition issues identified by the council.

Department of Human Services and NDSU Extension Service Family Life Education Committee was established in 1992 by the North Dakota legislature to educate and support individuals at all points within the family life cycle. The committee meets six times per year to identify issues, plan, and implement educational programs. The NDSU Extension Service is the primary source of the educational programs and outreach to the state.