By Jamie Martin
The USDA has awarded a $3.45 million grant to the Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC).
This funding supports dairy farmers and processors across 11 states in enhancing their operations.
The NE-DBIC, one of four Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives established by the 2018 Farm Bill, promotes modernization and sustainability within the dairy sector.The grant will help decrease the use of virgin plastic in dairy packaging and improve milk quality. It also aims to integrate local milk into school programs, thus supporting both local agriculture and community health.
This investment will allow for a wide range of projects, from updating farm infrastructure to adopting innovative marketing and branding strategies.
Officials from various states, including New York and Massachusetts, have praised the initiative. They highlighted its role in supporting dairy producers and processors in adapting to market and environmental changes. This ensures the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the dairy industry in the region.
The NE-DBIC plans to use the additional funds to expand grant offerings to include more projects focused on innovative dairy processing and packaging.
Upcoming grants will also help farmers invest in specialized equipment to further modernize their operations.This strategic investment by the USDA underscores its commitment to supporting the agricultural sector and enhancing dairy production capabilities across the Northeast.
This initiative not only benefits local farmers and processors but also bolsters regional economies and ensures the resilience of the dairy industry.
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Categories: National