NMSU To Receive $200,000 in Recovery Act Funds
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson on Thursday announced a $200,000 Recovery Act award to New Mexico State University ‘s International Relations Institute.
The discretionary award from the Government Services Fund will go to support the development of innovative energy sources for New Mexico farmers and ranchers and to further establish New Mexico State University as a leader in immigration studies.
“The Recovery Act presents New Mexico with a historic opportunity to invest in education and technology that will pay off for future generations,” Governor Richardson said. “Immigration and energy are two of the most dominant issues facing our country, and New Mexico State University is well-prepared to advance the debate on behalf of our nation. I am pleased to release these funds to support the faculty, staff and students working hard on these innovative programs.”
A breakdown of the $200,000 award includes:
– $125,000 to the Renewable Energy, Water and Arid Lands Task Force. Projects include: A new solar power system for water distribution; a solar system for an animal watering station; and a biodiesel project fueled by algae. The project intends to demonstrate simple and inexpensive energy and water solutions for New Mexico ‘s agriculture industry.
– $75,000 to the Migration and Immigration Task Force. As the country grapples with a national immigration debate, students and faculty and the Las Cruces community at New Mexico State University are actively researching and teaching immigration trends in New Mexico , especially as it impacts immigrants’ access to employment and education. The funds will support a year-long program of research, teaching and community outreach, including a visiting scholar.
The International Relations Institute was established in 2006 by former Ambassador Delano E. Lewis, Sr. For more information, visit http://www.iri.nmsu.edu/.
