Resources A coordinator is needed to oversee the technology clearinghouse. Rather than possessing specific technology expertise, this person must be able to use experts to screen and evaluate information and evaluate mechanisms to disseminate pertinent information. An MSU food science facility and support personnel are needed to help clientele develop food products. A specialist is also needed to transfer general information on dairy, alternative crops, value-added and other agricultural technology issues. The new technology transfer position funded by the 1999 Legislative Session will provide much needed expertise and assistance in this area over the next two years.
Partnerships There are great possibilities for cross-disciplinary activity with both objectives.
Existing expertise in other agencies, organizations and commodity groups must be used. All those involved in Vision 2005 should be partners in this effort. MSU Extension will work with MSU-Northern to access VisionNet, which reaches many parts of rural Montana. The Burns Telecommunications Center at MSU-Bozeman provides another link to deliver programs electronically. To provide maximum expertise on value-added issues, Extension will work in collaboration with scientists in the MSU College of Agriculture.