In the last 10 years, California vegetable production has risen from approximately 900,000 acres to 1.3 million acres, while gross returns to growers have increased from $3 billion to $4 billion. In an effort to better serve this growing industry, the University of California is establishing a new Center for Vegetable Research and Extension at UC Davis. "Our purpose is to establish a focal point within the university to coordinate our efforts more effectively and increase the linkages with and responsiveness to our clientele groups," says center director Ron Voss, a Cooperative Extension vegetable specialist. He anticipates the new center will publish an annual report, a newsletter, extension bulletins, technical reports and analyses; develop short courses and campus seminars; strengthen liaison with commodity research boards; maintain a database of UC vegetable research and outreach projects; and implement an electronic communications network. An advisory committee and a steering committee are in the process of organizing the center.