ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the role of US university farms, their role in animal agriculture, and the financial support for them. The model efficiency in American agriculture stems from a combination of research, development, production, marketing, and incentive. State agricultural experiment stations are the backbone of agricultural research in the US and internationally. The commercial producer or farmer who visits a university farm often comments negatively about the management practices used. A very important function for university farms is public relations to enhance the image of agriculture. All states are finding it more difficult to support and (or) maintain university farms with the funding reductions that are imposed at various levels. The level of dedication among university farm employees can vary widely, and in most instances attitude and dedication are suboptimal; the blame can at least be partially attributed to lack of interest or concern by researchers, teachers, extension specialists, and (or) administrators.
