LINCOLN, Neb.— UNL may soon be receiving $16 million for a research service facility.

On Thursday, U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer announced that $16 million in funding for the construction of an agricultural research service facility at UNL advanced through the Senate Appropriations Committee. The money would be delegated between the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Agricultural Research Service facility at UNL. The funding, awaiting consideration on the Senate floor, was included in the 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

“The USDA Ag Research Service facility located at UNL will be a hub for world class agricultural innovation,” said Fischer. “That’s why I was pleased to advocate for this funding to construct the second phase of the ARS Center, which will continue to help attract students, scientists, and industry leaders who are focused on turning valuable research into tangible products for our farmers and ranchers.”

Fischer also touched on securing additional funding for Nebraska, including $1.5 million for the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL, prioritizing ARS research for the beef industry in Clay Center, and requiring the USDA to streamline contracting and procurement services for livestock research facilities.