By Will Nichols
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is accepting proposals through Feb. 27 for projects that increase the visibility and competitiveness of the state’s nursery, horticultural and nut products.
The proposals are part of a two-phase competitive process for the federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, authorized under the federal Farm Bill.
“Pennsylvania agriculture’s strength lies in its diversity, particularly our specialty crops that are the backbone of farm stands and farmers markets across the state,” said acting Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “I invite those with plans for improving the way we grow, market and consume specialty crops to submit grant proposals and help secure the future of this $1 billion industry.”
Commodities that meet the definition of specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticultural products, culinary herbs and spices, medicinal plants and nursery crops, including floricultural ones.
Applicants must submit a concept paper for projects that solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through market development, technology innovation, food safety, nutrition knowledge, sustainable practices and pest management. Concept papers are about three pages in length and cover project purpose; estimated timeline; goals, objectives and expected measurable outcomes; work plan; and budget.
Requests may be made for any amount, providing the amount reasonably represents the cost of the intended project.
Each project must have measurable outcomes for the specialty crop industry and/or the public rather than a single organization, institution or individual. 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-appointed specialty crop advisory board and approved by the state agriculture secretary. Successful applicants will then be asked to submit a full proposal based on the concept paper, due April 17.
Last year, 20 projects were approved in Pennsylvania totaling more than $1 million. Projects addressed a range of priorities in the agriculture industry, including food safety, marketing, nutrition, succession planning and sustainability.
Concept papers must be received by 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27. Completed applications may be mailed to Morgan Sheffield, Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Market Development, 2301 N. Cameron St., Room 310, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9408.
Source:pa.gov