By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has announced an opportunity for public input regarding its Specialty Crop Block Grant Program for 2025.
MDARD Director Tim Boring encourages Michigan residents to provide feedback on the program’s priorities by emailing their comments to mda-grants@michigan.gov by November 27, 2024. The feedback will help MDARD finalize the program priorities for the upcoming year.
MDARD’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program is designed to enhance the competitiveness of Michigan’s specialty crops, which include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.
The program offers grants to fund projects that promote specialty crops and address challenges faced by producers.
Last year’s funding priorities included market enhancement and expansion, farm-to-institution initiatives, research, plant health, pest management, and farm sustainability.
The program also focused on enhancing food safety, environmental sustainability, and workforce training.
MDARD is seeking input to ensure that the 2025 program continues to address the most relevant needs and challenges facing Michigan’s specialty crop producers.
Public comments will guide the development of initiatives that support sustainable agriculture, market access, and food safety.
This public input opportunity allows farmers, producers, and stakeholders to play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, helping Michigan agriculture remain competitive and resilient.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: Michigan, Crops