Although Graves County is ranked third in the state in agriculture, it has been the only county in the Purchase Area without an Extension tax.  For over sixteen years, three agents have been serving a county of 557 square miles (population 37,000) with a budget of 150,000.  Increased expenses and this funding deficit continues to limit the number of programs that can be offered for residents in Graves County and hinder the growth of Extension in Graves County.  A year and a half ago the Graves County Cooperative Extension Council and District Board began efforts to build a case for the implementation of a tax.  Board members had numerous individual and group meetings with members of the fiscal court.  Agents provided documentation indicating clientele served and services provided by the Graves County Cooperative Extension Service.  The District Board voted to levy a 4% tax on real property and 4% tax on personal property.  The tax will generate over 600,000 in revenue per year for the Graves County Cooperative Extension Service allowing the citizens of Graves County to benefit from services indefinitely.