January 16-17, 2003

ITEM 118-1002-R0103   Increase in Authorization for Research Facility; The University of Montana - Missoula

THAT: Consistent with the provisions of MCA 18-2-102, the Board of Regents' of Higher Education authorizes The University of Montana Missoula to increase the project budget to construct a new research facility.

EXPLANATION: The original request for authority to construct this facility (BOR Item 116-1001-R0902) approved in the September BOR meeting was in the amount of $700,000. This request will increase the project authority to $1,500,000. This project will utilize unused authority only authorization from the 55th Legislature. This project will be financed with indirect costs from research grants and unrestricted funds.

There is a pressing need for additional space for research activities and faculty offices within the School of Forestry. These programs can be combined with like activities in a single lab facility.