$2 Million Available To Fund Minnesota Ag Research

Sep 22, 2015

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) announces $2 million available to applicants for applied crop research grants. Research needs to focus on improving agricultural product quality, quantity and value. Projects must benefit Minnesota farmers and the state’s economy in the next three to five years. Maximum grant awards are $250,000 per project, which can last up to three years.

Any Minnesota organization, research entity, individual, or business with agricultural research capability is eligible and encouraged to apply to receive funding. This includes: farmers/farmer networks, institutions of higher education, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, agricultural cooperatives, and agricultural businesses with research capabilities.

Applications must be received by 4 p.m. Nov. 20 and can be submitted by mail, email, or in person to the MDA. The application and grant details are online: www.mda.state.mn.us/. You can also apply for the 2016 grants online.

Video: Season 6, Episode 10: Defining Resiliency and the Research Driving Swine Health Forward

Genetic research and new technologies continue to influence the future of swine health and production efficiency. In this episode, we explore how research and technology are being used to support stronger, more resilient pigs, while also improving overall production outcomes. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist with Topigs Norsvin, to discuss both routine and emerging strategies for improving piglet, pig, and sow livability. She outlines two primary approaches to enhancing resiliency: gene editing and traditional selective breeding. Continuing the resiliency conversation, we also hear from Dr. Lucina Galina, director of technical research projects at the Pig Improvement Company. She shares insights into ongoing gene-editing work focused on PRRS, detailing the pathway to success, regulatory and practical considerations, and the questions that still remain as the technology evolves. Together, these conversations provide a closer look at how research, genetics and innovation are shaping the future of swine health and livability.