WI specialty crops get $1.12M boost

By Blake Jackson

Get ready for a delicious, diverse, and innovative future for Wisconsin's specialty crops! The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) just announced 15 projects receiving over $1.12 million in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant funding.

These grants aim to supercharge the competitiveness of Wisconsin's specialty crop industries, whether it's through research, education, or market development. Think apples in Gays Mills getting a marketing makeover, hops production in eastern Wisconsin expanding, or honeybees getting a pollen quality check – there's something for everyone!

"Wisconsin agriculture is a powerhouse, and specialty crops are a big part of that," shared DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski. "These grants are like fertilizer for our diverse crop scene, from maple syrup and hops to elderberries and leafy greens."

Here's a glimpse into the exciting projects that received funding:

1. Apple Power: A promotional campaign to make Gays Mills apples a household name (and snack!) throughout Wisconsin.
2. Fruitz 2 Art: Bringing healthy, creative fun to kids and adults through mobile fruit and veggie education.
3. Ginseng Guard: Protecting Wisconsin's precious ginseng from premature defoliation, ensuring bountiful harvests.
4. Elderberry Boom: Helping new elderberry farmers in southwest Wisconsin connect with markets and spread the word about this superfood.
5. Leafy Green Revolution: Boosting production, awareness, and demand for local, year-round leafy greens in Milwaukee.
6. Hop-timism: Expanding hop production and processing in eastern Wisconsin, adding a hoppy twist to the local scene.
7. Collard Cool: Finding the perfect collard greens for urban and peri-urban gardens across the upper Midwest.
8. Farm Fresh Atlas Expansion: Connecting specialty crop farmers with consumers across the state through the Farm Fresh Atlas platform.
9. Spray-Tech Save: Implementing advanced crop detection and sensors to reduce chemical and water use in specialty crop spraying.
10. Honeyberry Haven: Supporting honeyberry production in Wisconsin, adding this delicious berry to the state's bounty.
11. Cover Crop Champs: Reducing groundwater contamination risks with in-season cover crops in potatoes and sweet corn.
12. Beetle Bust: Finding effective ways to manage Japanese beetles in Wisconsin vineyards, protecting our grape crops.
13. Pollen Power: Investigating how local and landscape conditions affect honeybee pollen quality, ensuring healthy hives.
14. Agritourism Allure: Growing Wisconsin's reputation as America's agritourism destination, attracting visitors and boosting local economies.
15. Maple Mania: Educating thousands about the unique world of maple syrup production, ensuring this sweet tradition thrives in Wisconsin.

This grant program is a testament to Wisconsin's commitment to innovation and diversity in its agricultural sector. With these projects in motion, get ready for even tastier, more sustainable, and engaging experiences with the state's amazing specialty crops! For more information, visit datcp.wi.gov/Pages/AgDevelopment/SpecialtyCropBlockGrants.aspx.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-amphawan-chanunpha