By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has announced the allocation of over $368,000 in grants aimed at promoting the state’s specialty crop production.
The funding, provided in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as part of the Farm Bill, will be distributed across 11 projects. These initiatives are designed to increase awareness, drive demand, and create new markets for Iowa’s specialty crops.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig emphasized the importance of these Specialty Crop Block Grants in helping to develop and expand markets for Iowa’s specialty crops. “These grants play a crucial role in diversifying and growing markets within Iowa, benefiting both farmers and their communities,” Naig stated.
He also highlighted the connection to the state’s Choose Iowa brand, which promotes locally grown and produced agricultural products. The grants will help make more locally sourced food and agricultural products available to consumers.
The grants will support a wide range of projects, each contributing to the growth and sustainability of Iowa’s specialty crops. Some of the notable initiatives include:
The American Aronia Berry Association will research the effects of renewal pruning on aronia berry plant growth and fruit quality.
The Iowa Ag Literacy Foundation will introduce specialty crops to students through the Read Across Iowa program.
Iowa State University will undertake several projects, including studying grape stems, enhancing nutritional monitoring of specialty fruit and nut crops, and assessing next-generation apple rootstocks and cultivars.
Lutheran Services of Iowa will focus on increasing culturally specific crops through greenhouse production education.
The Iowa Wine Growers Association will assist with the implementation of the Iowa Specialty Producers Conference.
Practical Farmers of Iowa will provide for farmer-led specialty crops variety trials, fostering innovation at the grassroots level.
These initiatives reflect Iowa’s commitment to enhancing its specialty crop sector, ensuring that farmers have the resources and support needed to thrive. By funding these diverse projects, the state aims to bolster the availability of locally grown products, benefiting both producers and consumers.
The grants also support Iowa’s broader agricultural goals, aligning with efforts to build a stronger, more sustainable farming community.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy