Clemson University Public Service Activities (PSA) requested an investment of 1 million dollars, a 5 year $200,000 annual commitment from the South Carolina General Assembly during 1998 for research and technology transfer in the area of "Imported Fire Biology and Management". The request was funded for FY 99 and Clemson University's PSA Office announced a call for proposals for internal competitive grants. PSA funded twelve programs in FY 99.
The primary objective of the initiative is to utilize an integrated systems approach to understanding and managing the rapid spread and impact of the imported fire ant in South Carolina. This approach will directly address the problems associated with increasing numbers and range of imported fire ant as well as other environmental issues affecting agriculture and forestry. These programs will be driven by research and extension scientist to achieve environmentally and socially acceptable management strategies.