COLLEGE STATION, Texas - The Irrigation Technology Center has officially moved into the development plan phase. The second phase of the efforts to establish the center includes the following components:

- A financing plan including detailed construction and operating costs

- Economic impact assessment

- Construction and implementation schedule

- Site evaluation and selection

- Preconstruction design of facilities

-Obtain approval of Texas A&M University system

The ITC has received strong support from organizations in the San Antonio area, as well as across the state. Four organizations have shown their committment to ITC by donating a total of $146,000: San Antonio Water System; BexarMet Water District; San Antonio River Authority; Medina County Groundwater Conservation District.

The Agriculture Program of the Texas A&M University System, through Texas Cooperative Extension, committed an additional $94,000, bringing the total Development Plan funds to $240,000. This represents about 60% of expected development costs.

For more information on the ITC development phase call (979) 845-3959 or e-mail itc@tamu.edu.