By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has infused $82.3 million into the specialty crop sector to bolster the competitiveness of fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts producers. This substantial funding, part of ongoing efforts to expand market reach, was announced last week.
Grants totaling $73 million were distributed through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, with an additional $9.4 million via the Specialty Crop Multi-State Program. These grants will fund over 520 diverse projects ranging from marketing initiatives to cutting-edge university research and technical support for growers.
“This funding will strengthen U.S. specialty crop production and markets and ensure Americans have sustained access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and more,” stated Jenny Lester Moffitt, USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs.
The focus is on enhancing product safety, combating crop diseases, and meeting new FDA safety standards under the Food Safety Modernization Act.
As specialty crop producers advocate for increased grant funding in the upcoming farm bill, the recent awards symbolize a significant push towards meeting these demands.
The House farm bill draft proposes to raise annual funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to $100 million, indicating strong legislative support for this sector.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National