HARRISBURG – Proposals for projects that increase the visibility and market share of the state’s produce, nursery, horticultural and nut products, are being accepted through March 5, said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.
The proposals are part of a two-phase competitive process for the federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which was authorized under the federal Farm Bill.
“I encourage producers of fruits, vegetables, other specialty crops and industry stakeholders to apply for the grant funding,” said Redding. “The grants will enhance the competitiveness of Pennsylvania’s specialty crop industry by allowing producers to increase market share, which benefits Pennsylvania’s leading economic enterprise – agriculture.”
Applicants may submit a short concept paper for projects that increase the competitiveness of fruit, vegetable, tree nut, dried fruit, nursery crop or horticulture products.
Projects will focus on priority areas that include:
– Market development (local, farm-direct, food access, value added, export);
– Technology and innovation in distribution channels;
– Food safety and related areas;
– Nutrition knowledge and consumption of specialty crops; and
– Research (pest and disease, preventive methods, integrated pest management, organic and sustainable production practices)
Collaboration with industry stakeholders is required. Single organizations, institutions and individuals are encouraged to participate as project partners.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture administers the grant program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service. Proposals will be reviewed by a state specialty crop advisory board and the department. Successful applicants will then be asked to submit a full proposal based on the concept paper, which will be due April 23.
Last year, 15 projects were approved in Pennsylvania totaling more than $780,000. Nearly $250,000 was awarded to the Department of Agriculture’s bureaus of food distribution, food safety and market development.
Concept papers must be received by 4 p.m. on Friday, March 5. Completed applications may be delivered or mailed to Lela Reichart, Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Market Development, 2301 N. Cameron St., Room 310, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9408.
For more information about the grant program, contact Lela Reichart at 717-783-1394 or lreichart@state.pa.us. Or visit online, search “Specialty Crops.”