Curtis, Neb., August 31, 2012 – The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) has a new mural added to its collection at its new Nebraska Agriculture Industry Education Center. The USDA mural depicts the various projects that can be accomplished through the programs and funding offered through the USDA Mission Areas. 
Rural Development State Director Maxine Moul was in Curtis today with the Dean of NCTA, Dr. Weldon Sleight, who gave her a tour of the mural and the Education Center. Moul serves as the chair of the Nebraska Food and Agriculture Council, whose membership includes the USDA agencies located in Nebraska. Coordinating the creation and installation of the mural were the USDA Agencies of Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Rural Development.
“USDA would like to thank NCTA for the opportunity to tell our story by providing an overall look at how USDA contributes to local communities through our mission areas. USDA offers a wide range of services. The mural helps to get the word out to NCTA students and visitors to the campus,” said Moul.
The Education Center and three other major projects completed on the campus of NCTA over the last two years were dedicated last November. These include the Walter Long Veterinary Technology Teaching Clinic, George & Carol Garlick Aggie West Residence Hall, Aggie Central Residence Hall and the Bio Mass Project.
According to Dr. Sleight, these projects were possible as a result of the efforts of government officials, agriculture industry organizations and, in particular, the generosity of 200 donors who represent friends and alumni of the college.
USDA Mission Areas include those for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services; Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services; Food Safety; Marketing and Regulatory Programs; Natural Resources and Environment; Research, Education and Economics; and Rural Development.
Visit http://usda.gov/wps/portal/