Lawmakers give final approval for 'excellence' grants
BYLINE: By DALE WETZEL, Associated Press Writer
DATELINE: BISMARCK N.D.
North Dakota lawmakers gave final approval for $10 million in grants to four North Dakota colleges, for projects ranging from a device to bust blood clots to machinery that spreads manure more efficiently.
The "centers of excellence" money is going to two projects each at North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota, along with initiatives at Minot State University and Lake Region State College in Devils Lake.
The Budget Section, a 45-member interim legislative committee, endorsed the grants Tuesday. A handful of lawmakers dissented, although more than 30 supported each project.
The grants, which were first recommended by a screening committee, have undergone previous reviews by the state Board of Higher Education, the state Emergency Commission and an economic development foundation that is part of the Department of Commerce.
NDSU is getting a $1.5 million grant to help develop different varieties of canola seed for biofuels and industrial oils, along with a $2 million grant for research into improved surface coatings.
UND is getting a $2.5 million grant for a medical device that could aid stroke victims by dissolving blood clots, and $1.5 million for an aerial drone research initiative.
Minot State was awarded $2.1 million to help develop a data and research center that companies may use for remote storage of their information.
Lake Region got $400,000 to help develop and market equipment that can do pinpoint application of manure fertilizer.