Cash for crops

ALBANY - N.Y.S. Agriculture Commissioner Patrick Hooker announced the availability of $900,000 in grants to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is funded through the Farm Bill to assist N.Y.'s specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, maple, honey and horticulture crops.

This special allotment of funding in the Farm Bill will provide a minimum of $30,000 and a maximum of $200,000 for projects that enhance the competitiveness of New York's specialty crops. Eligible projects should address at least one of the following funding categories that were identified by the industry. They are: 'Buy local' packaging and labeling; distribution; education and outreach; environmental quality and conservation; food safety; food security; marketing and promotion; nutrition; plant health, pest and productivity challenges; product development; and international trade enhancement.

The grants will be awarded on a competitive basis and does not require matching funds. The program is open to all non-profits, for-profits, government entities, educational institutions and individuals. Applications can be downloaded at www.agmkt.state.ny.us/AP/slide/SpecialtyCrop.html and must be received no later than July 17.

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