Funding offered to enhance of specialty crops in Nevada

Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) officials are pleased to announce funding for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Approximately $250,000 is expected to be awarded to projects that will enhance the competitiveness of Nevada’s specialty crops.

Specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, legumes, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture).”

“The grant allows us the opportunity to support Nevada’s growing availability of specialty crops through production, education, research and promotion,” Ashley Jeppson, agriculturist for the NDA, said.

Grant funds through this program have been used to establish various projects, including new grower education with Reno Foods Systems, an on-line specialty crop farmers market through 702 Farm, and education and increased sales through the Reno Garlic Festival.

Project proposals that promote and enhance specialty crops through research, marketing, education, and production must have multiple beneficiaries and may not be used to benefit only one individual or organization.

Individual agricultural producers, non-profit and tribal organizations, minority groups, disadvantaged farmers, agricultural associations, industry groups, community based organizations and academic institutions are encouraged to apply.

Letters of intent are due by March 20, 2019 and full application proposals are due by April 11, 2019. The request for proposals, past funded projects and more information can be found on the NDA website.

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) promotes a business climate that is fair, economically viable and encourages a sustainable environment that serves to protect food, fiber and human health and safety through effective service and education. NDA includes the divisions of Administration, Animal Industry, Consumer Equitability, Food and Nutrition and Plant Industry.