MonticelloLive

 Governor Mike Beebe released $2 million from the state’s General Improvement Fund Monday morning to help the University of Arkansas at Monticello construct a new wing to the school’s forest resources complex.
            The formal announcement was made at a ceremony in the John F. Gibson University Center. The $2 million released by Governor Beebe will be added to a $1.7 million appropriation made by the General Assembly during the 2007 legislative session and a $1 million private gift from Mrs. Maxine Clippert of Camden, bringing the total to $4.7 million.
           

   In addressing an audience of more than 300 business, civic, and timber industry leaders, Governor Beebe praised the southeast Arkansas legislative delegation. “I told you all two years ago that I know where southeast Arkansas is,” said Beebe. “With the legislative delegation you have, it’s impossible to forget about southeast Arkansas. “I want to commend them for their efforts and for being able to interest other legislators in this project.”
            “This is a great day for this institution,” said UAM Chancellor Jack Lassiter. “I want to thank Governor Beebe, the General Assembly, and Mrs. Clippert for funding this much-needed addition to our School of Forest Resources.  The teaching, research and public service provided by our forestry program are vital to the forest industry of Arkansas and by expanding our facility, we will be able to stay at the forefront of forestry education in the region and nation.”
            The proposed addition is the first new construction in the forest resources complex since 1987. The new building will connect with the present complex and extend to the east.  

“None of this would be possible without the hard work of some individuals who are very important to this campus,” said Lassiter. “I want to thank State Senators Jimmy Jeffress of Crossett, Gene Jeffress of Louann, Jerry Taylor of Pine Bluff, and State Representatives Allen Maxwell of Monticello, Eddie Cheatham of Crossett, Greg Reep of Warren, David Rainey of Dumas, and Robert Moore of Arkansas City for their tireless efforts on our behalf. We are fortunate to have advocates like these in the legislature.”
            Lassiter said final plans for the new facility are still being developed and would be released when complete.
            For more information, contact Jim Brewer, director of media services, at (870) 460-1074.