LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — Despite dire budget forecasts, Gov. Matt Mead says he supports continuing a state program that matches dollar-for-dollar contributions of up to $5 million to University of Wyoming athletics.

Mead says he is still fashioning his proposed state budget, which is due by Dec. 1, and the budget numbers aren't yet clear.

But he says "if at all possible" he wants to keep money flowing to athletics and other initiatives at the state's only public four-year university.

The state Legislature meets early next year to work out the state's next two-year budget plan.

The state currently matches funds raised by the Cowboy Joe Club up to $5 million.

UW athletics director Tom Burman says the state match must continue for UW to be competitive.

More From K2 Radio