$3 million available in specialty crop grants

About $3 million will come to the Evergreen State from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) for fiscal year 2010, and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) has announced a call for proposals that will increase the competitiveness and viability of the state’s fruit, vegetable and nursery producers. Concept papers are due Feb. 5.

Of special interest this year, WSDA is seeking projects that focus on pest and disease control, food safety, international trade, organic and sustainable production practices, but other proposals will be considered.

Authorized by the 2008 Farm Bill, WSDA announced in October assistance funds totaling $2.6 million awarded to 14 projects across the region to support specialty crops, defined as commonly recognized fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and nursery crops.

Washington is a leading producer of apples, cherries, raspberries, hops and spearmint among other commodities.

Private and non-profit organizations, commodity commissions and other public entities are eligible for $75,000 to $250,000, grants that benefit the specialty crop industry.

In addition, WSDA will set-aside a portion of funds for small projects of $10,000 to $75,000. All projects must be completed within three years.

“This farm bill program can enhance Washington’s economy by helping specialty crop growers improve their products and increase their profitability,” said WSDA Director Dan Newhouse.

“The program funds projects that help growers overcome production challenges and enhance marketing opportunities.”

The first step in applying for the grants is to submit a brief concept paper to WSDA.

The submittal should be e-mailed to Rianne Perry, WSDA SCBGP coordinator, at specialtycrop@agr. wa.gov by 5 p.m. Feb. 5. Application information and forms are available on WSDA’s Web site at agr. wa.gov/grants.

For more information on the program, lists of eligible products and the federal requirements, go to the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service at www. ams.usda.gov/scbgp or call Perry at 360-902-2177.