News

Michigan specialty crops granted more than $4 million, conservation districts nearly $10 million

Michigan’s specialty crop sector has received $4 million for 18 projects enhancing the state’s competitiveness.

Federal funding through the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program was distributed through the state’s ag department to focus on marketing, training, certifications, food safety, pest control, and plant health for specialty crops.

Senator Debbie Stabenow says the sector is critical to the state’s economy and the funding will help farmers keep their competitive edge and continue to provide healthy fruits and vegetables to American families.

The ag department’s international program received the largest grant, nearly $170,000, for international and domestic promotion of the industry. 

Other projects support the needs of asparagus, apple, dry bean, blueberry, carrot, tart cherry, onion, potato, grape, and vegetable growers along with the craft beverage and nursery sectors in Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture is also accepting public input on program priorities for 2022 until December 10.

Separately, the department also recently awarded nearly $10 million to 75 of the state’s conservation districts for 169 projects supporting voluntary conservation practices on private lands and forests.