Station's future still uncertain

Since opening in 1944, the Upper Mountain Research Station in Ashe County has offered agricultural research data to farmers and agriculture specialists statewide.

However, last week, that station was named as one that could be closed as the state trims its budget. Later in the week, it was removed from the list of stations to be closed.

"It's off the list as of last Thursday, but I haven't talked to anyone this week," said Alleghany County Cooperative Extension Director Bob Edwards. "That doesn't mean it can't go back on the list."

Throughout this process, several stations have been targeted for closure and later removed, while others have remained, Edwards said.

"Having it here since the mid 1940s has had a major impact on agriculture in the entire northwestern portion of the state," Edwards said. "More recently, with the changes that are anticipated in the tobacco program, the station has a leader in seeking new crop and livestock alternatives for farmers."

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