USDA Awards $82.3 Million to Enhance Specialty Crop Competitiveness

Author

Slice of Agriculture Team
August 30, 2024

Key Highlights:

  • $82.3 million awarded to enhance competitiveness of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts.

  • Funding supports market development, consumer education, and research.

  • Grants administered through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) and Specialty Crop Multi-State Grant Program (SCMP).

  • 54 states and territories receive funding to aid specialty crop growers.

  • Multi-state grants address regional or national level specialty crop issues.

Source (U.S. Department of Agriculture)

Notable Quote:

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"This funding will strengthen U.S. specialty crop production and markets and ensure Americans have sustained access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and more."

Jenny Lester Moffitt, Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs at USDA

Our Take:

The USDA’s investment of $82.3 million through the Specialty Crop Block Grant and Multi-State Grant programs is a significant move to bolster the specialty crop sector, vital for both the economy and consumer health. By targeting key areas like market expansion, research, and education, the USDA is ensuring that specialty crop producers are well-positioned to meet growing consumer demand. This strategic funding not only supports individual farmers but also strengthens the overall resilience of the U.S. food system, aligning with broader efforts to create sustainable and prosperous agricultural communities.