A number of individuals in Kentucky's nursery and landscape industry have found a way to double their money instantly. They've committed funds for UK research under the Research Challenge Trust Fund. Under the Fund, money pledged by individual donors is matched dollar-for-dollar by the state.

More than $34,200 has been committed so far to the UK Nursery/Landscape Research Endowment, and the fund is still growing. Donors to date include: Pat and Janet Dwyer, Virginia Wiche, Bob Korphage, John Korphage, Herman Wallitsch, Sr., Herman Wallitsch, Jr., Rudy Voltz, and Helen Powell.

"This is an excellent way to make a positive impact on nursery and landscape research programs, and to attract top-caliber academic talent," said Dewayne Ingram, chair of UK's department of horticulture and landscape architecture. "These participating donors have given generously, and their contributions are going to make a real difference."

In addition to the general nursery and landscape endowment, three additional funds to help the industry have been created. Larry and Carolyn Sanders of Paducah have committed $25,000 to establish the James and Cora Sanders Nursery/Landscape Research Endowment; Bob and Jan Corum of Crestwood have committed $50,000 to establish the Don Corum and National Nursery Products Nursery/Landscape Research Endowment; and Richard and Greg Ammon of Burlington have committed $25,000 to establish the Ammon Nursery/Landscape Research Endowment.

The total combined amount of these endowments is more than $110,000. The state's Research Challenge Trust Fund will match these gifts to bring the grand total to nearly a quarter of a million dollars.

Created by the Kentucky General Assembly in 1997, the Research Challenge Trust Fund is a means of assisting UK achieve its goal of becoming a top 20 public research institution by 2020.

"Pledging a gift to university research to be matched by the Research Challenge Trust Fund is a powerful way to support both our university programs and our nursery and landscape industry," said Kathy Ibendahl, development officer in UK's agricultural alumni and development office. "We urge other families, individuals, and business owners to participate."

If you're interested in adding your name to the list of those making a lasting impact on the nursery and landscape industry through the Research Challenge Trust Fund program, call the UK College of Agriculture Development office at 606-257-7200.