The Iowa State 4-H Youth and Extension Program received a $1 million gift from the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation for its new facility, which will begin construction during spring 2000.

The announcement of the gift was made at Saturday’s Homecoming football game.

This gift “emphasizes [Farm Bureau’s] commitment to the future of agriculture,” said Aaron Putze, director of public relations for Iowa Farm Bureau. “In these extremely difficult times in agriculture, with low prices and uncertainty, we feel that there’s no better time to step forward with a contribution that reaffirms our belief in the future of agriculture in this state.”

The partnership between ISU and Farm Bureau has been around for much of the program’s existence. “They continue to be a physical partner in a number of donor programs,” said Florine Swanson, executive director of the Iowa 4-H Foundation.

Many Farm Bureau members remain key leaders not only in 4-H, but also in FFA programs across the state of Iowa.

“The bottom line is putting in place programs and opportunities that will bring the next generation of agriculture leaders,” Putze said.

The new building will provide an opportunity to bring the Extension staff together under one building. As of now, many staff members are working out of their homes or are scattered around Curtiss Hall.

“We don’t know where the building will be located,” Swanson said, “but it will be in a location where it is easier for the public to access.”

The new building also will have a welcome center where visitors can interact with Extension and learn about opportunities in agriculture and 4-H. It will house a video and sound lab for radio broadcast, as well as interactive displays for further education.

“Interactive education displays will exemplify the science and technology of ISU,” Swanson said.

The building itself will cost a total of $3.5 million, of which $1.5 million will come from private donations, Swanson said. There currently is a campaign underway to raise the remainder of the money. Major donors who have shown previous support have been contacted, and 75 percent of the goal has been reached.

“Everyone in 4-H is excited about this gift that Farm Bureau has made. It will enable us to provide better programs for Iowa 4-H-ers,” Swanson said.

“It is difficult to describe what this building will accomplish. If we don’t encourage a new generation of agricultural leaders, nothing will be accomplished,” Putze agreed.