MT Dept. Of Agriculture Requesting Specialty Crop Block Grant Applications

The Montana Department of Agriculture is now accepting applications for an estimated $1.3 million in federal funding available through the Specialty Crop Block Grant (SCBG) program.

Montana’s SCBG program benefits projects solely enhancing the competitiveness of Montana specialty crops. Specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, peas, lentils, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. A list of crops commonly considered Montana specific is available on the program’s website. “The growth in Montana’s Specialty Crop Block Grant program is allowing for a broader scope of projects, increased research funding, and greater diversification of the Montana’s agriculture industry. We look forward to reviewing new, innovative applications related to specialty crops,” said Department Director Ron de Yong.

Eligible projects include education on the value of specialty crops, improving efficiency of distribution systems, assisting entities in the development of good agricultural practices, pest and disease control, improving variety development, and sustainable production practices. Technical assistance calls will be held on February 3 and 17, 2016. For more information, visit agr.mt.gov/agr/Programs/GrantsLoans/SCBG/Grant_Proposal.html.

State and/or local organizations, government entities, producer associations, academia, community based organizations, and other specialty crop stakeholders are eligible to apply either as single entities or in combined efforts.

Grant proposals are due to the Montana Department of Agriculture by 2:00 p.m. MST on February 24, 2016. For more information, eligibility guidelines, technical assistance and resources, visit scbg.mt.gov or contact Jim Auer, Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Manager, at [email protected] or (406) 444-5424.

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://www.agr.mt.gov.