Block Grants Available for Local Farmers

The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is accepting proposals for specialty block grants. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, maple syrup and Christmas trees, among others. Excluded are livestock, eggs and field crops such as soybeans and corn. To be considered for funding, projects must focus on industry-related research, education, improved production or marketing of specialty crops. The program is available to groups and organizations and cannot be used to fund individual farms or enterprises. The grant application deadline is Feb. 17. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.