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cializing in pesticide management.
Mrs. Smith said she does not know if she will be expected to pick up responsibility for 4-H clubs in other counties.
The restructuring plan has five parts, according to Dr. Torgersen. The first is streamlining administration. Administrative positions will be reduced 40 percent from 20 to 12, freeing up more resources for programming at the local level.
A second emphasis will be investing in information technology. Computers will be used to make information available throughout the state. Of 70 positions lost during the state’s buyout program last year, 22 would be replaced. Virginia Tech plans to use salary savings from not filling the other positions for training and equipment purchases. “This mirrors the trend that has been followed in industry,” Dr. Torgersen said. “We believe that through information technology, Virginia Cooperative Extension can enhance its service to the Commonwealth and set an example for other states.” He emphasized, however, that retaining the salary savings from the vacated positions “is critical to the restructuring we envision.”
The third part of the plan would mean putting priority on agriculture. Statewide the Extension Service would add 22 agriculture agents, maintain the current number of 4-H agents, and reduce the number of home economics agents by 15 percent or nine positions. The remaining home economics agents will be directed to assist localities in working to implement welfare reform.
The Extension Service is also being asked to increase outside revenues. Mrs. Smith said as an example the cost of the Master Gardener class is being increased and supporters of that program are looking for grants to continue it..
The fifth goal of the restructuring program is to “strengthen” the relationship with local governments.
“Fortunately with our proposed investments in information technology, time and distance become less of an issue,” Dr. Torgersen said. “Our goal is to emphasize educational programming and technical assistance which local citizens and governments will be able to choose according to their own priorities. We intend to maintain an Extension presence in every locality that desires one, but programming must be conceived on an areawide basis if it is to continue. to be effective.”
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