Funding Available for South Dakota Specialty Crops


Article Body

SOUTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
NEWS RELEASE 
For Immediate Release: July 7, 2009
Media Contact: Robert Weyrich, 605-773-4073
 
 
Funding Available for South Dakota Specialty Crops
 
Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) is pleased to announce the availability of grants for projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. As defined for this program, specialty crops include fruits, dried fruits, tree nuts, vegetables, turfgrass sod and seed, and nursery crops (including floriculture).
 
"We are pleased to offer the Specialty Crop Block Grant program to South Dakota producers,” said Secretary of Agriculture Bill Even. “These funds can help advance and promote specialty crops in our state.”
 
Program dollars can be used for a variety of projects including: 
  • investing in specialty crop research, including organic research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes; 
  • enhancing food safety; developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops; pest and disease control; and sustainability;
  • improving efficiency and reducing costs of distribution systems;
  •  developing “Good Agricultural Practices”, “Good Handling Practices”, and “Good Manufacturing Practices” in the distribution chain;
  •  organizing cost-share arrangements for funding audits of such systems for small farmers, packers and processors;
  •  increasing child and adult nutrition knowledge and specialty crops consumption;
  •  participation at national and international meetings.
Completed applications must be postmarked by August 7, 2009 and sent to SDDA at 523 East Capitol Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501. Results will be announced after review by SDDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  
 
For program guidelines, an application form, or other information, call SDDA at 605-773-5436 or visit www.dakotaflavor.com.
 
- 30 –