March 30, 2007

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) is seeking grant proposals from organizations or groups of individuals interested in enhancing the competitiveness of the state's specialty crop industry. Specialty crops are defined as fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits and nursery crops (including floriculture).

NDA is requesting the grant proposals as part of its efforts to develop a state plan for the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The USDA program was created by Congress in 2004. Under program rules, during this funding cycle, NDA can receive up to $104,133 for specialty crops but must submit a state plan, detailing how the funds will be used.

"Specialty crops play an important role in Nebraska agriculture, adding diversity and expanding opportunities for a variety of individuals," NDA Director Greg Ibach said. "We want to support this segment of the agriculture industry by participating in this federal program."

Grant proposals will be considered on a competitive basis. Those that NDA selects for inclusion in the specialty crop state plan also must be reviewed by USDA. Applications are due to NDA by 5 p.m. Monday, April 30.

According to USDA guidelines, eligible projects must enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and may focus on research, promotion, marketing, nutrition, trade enhancement, food safety, food security plant health programs, education and "buy local" programs, among other opportunities. The grant proposal must show the project will benefit the specialty crop industry as a whole; proposals that will profitably benefit one organization or individual will not be accepted.

For grant proposal guidelines and application information, please visit www.agr.ne.gov or call 800-422-6692. USDA guidance on this program, including specific examples of eligible specialty crops, can be found at www.ams.usda.gov/fv/scbgp.html.