Specialty Crop Block Grant applications available

From Montana Department of Agriculture

HELENA — The Montana Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for an estimated $3 million in federal funding available through the Specialty Crop Block Grant program.

The purpose of the SCBG program is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Montana. Specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, peas and lentils, dried fruits, as well as horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. State and or local organizations, government entities, producer associations, academia, community-based organizations, nonprofit organizations and other specialty crop stakeholders are eligible to apply either as single entities or in combined efforts.

Eligible projects include research, education, developing new and improved varieties, improving the capacity of the distribution chain, enhancing food safety, pest and disease control, improving efficiency and sustainability. For a complete list of guidelines and eligibility requirements, visit this link.

Grant proposals are due to the Montana Department of Agriculture by 2 p.m. Feb. 19. Technical assistance calls will be held Jan. 30 and Feb. 18.  For more information, visit http://agr.mt.gov/SpecialtyCropGrant

Program or contact Grace Aklestad, Specialty Crop Block Grant program panager, at 406-444-3407 or email [email protected].

The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit http://agr.mt.gov .