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 “For many Illinoisans, specialty crops not only provide vital
nutrition, but also are a primary source of income,” Director
Philip Nelson said. “The fruits, vegetables and nuts grown on
our state’s farmland will provide Illinois families with access
to fresh, healthy food. In addition to the availability of
Illinois-grown produce, these grants can help enhance a grower’s
profitability and sustainability.”
The funds will come from the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
in the Farm Bill. They are available for projects that solely
enhance the competitiveness of Illinois-grown specialty crops in
either domestic or foreign markets.
Projects that benefit a particular commercial product or provide
a profit to a single organization, institution or individual are
ineligible. Farmers’ markets, roadside stands and
community-sponsored agriculture programs should consider
submitting proposals to the USDA’s Farmers’ Market and Local
Food Promotion Program.
The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service defines specialty
crops as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and
horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture).”
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According to the 2012 Census of Agriculture, more than 106,000 acres
of Illinois farmland are devoted to growing specialty crops on more
than 3,200 farms. Illinois is the nation’s leading producer of
pumpkins and horseradish, and ranks in the top ten in acreage of
cantaloupes, green peas, lima beans, and sweet corn. Illinois also
is home to a flourishing grape and wine market, with 1,197 acres of
farmland dedicated to growing grapes on 421 farms. Sales of all
specialty crops in Illinois, including nursery and greenhouse sales,
totaled almost $470 million in 2012.
The IDOA will accept grant proposals until May 1, 2015, at 4 p.m.
Request for Proposal packets and additional information about the
program can be found online at the department’s website at
www.agr.state.il.us. For more information call (217) 524-9129.
[Illinois Department of Agriculture] |
