Skip to main content
Michigan’s nonpartisan, nonprofit news source

We need your vote!

During this important election year, Bridge readers like you know that high-quality journalism like ours is more critical than ever. There’s a lot on the line, and we’re working daily to deliver the information you need to prepare you for November’s election. Can we count on your vote of confidence in our newsroom? Donate today!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate

USDA awards $2 million in grants to help Michigan farms grow specialty crops

Two rows of apple trees full of fruit seen under a blue sky nearly ready for picking
Nearly two dozen Michigan recipients will share more than $2 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. (Shutterstock)
  • The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $2 million in grants to farm groups in Michigan 
  • The grants were from the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program 
  • Recipients range from hop growers to potato growers 

The federal government is shelling out $2 million to make specialty crops produced in Michigan — from Christmas trees to apples and dry beans — more competitive in the marketplace. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded grants of up to $125,000 to support projects from various farm organizations and councils, such as the Michigan Carrot Committee, the Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board and the Midwest Chestnut Producers Council.  In addition, Michigan Department of Agriculture’s International Marketing program will receive $155,000 for international and domestic promotion of Michigan specialty crops.

Sponsor

Among the biggest grant recipients are the Michigan State Horticultural Society — $125,000 for a marketing campaign to promote the consumption of Michigan-grown strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries — and the Michigan Apple Committee.

Related:

“Michigan specialty crops increase the diversity of the food and agriculture industry in the state and create more value per acre for Michigan farmers," said Tim Boring, director of the state agricultural department, in a press statement.

Evergreen trees grow at a Michigan Christmas tree farm
The Michigan Christmas Tree Association received $75,000 to further development of a weed management strategy. (Shutterstock)

“Thanks to the ongoing funding from USDA, Michigan’s farmers have greater opportunity to advance their research, be more competitive in the marketplace, and create economic opportunities within the specialty crop sector.” 

The USDA defines specialty crops as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture, used by people for food, medicinal purposes. 

“We are happy to once again be partnered with Michigan on the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program,” said Jenny Lester Moffitt, USDA under-secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, in a statement.  

Here’s a full list of 2024 Michigan recipients of USDA specialty crop block grants:  

How impactful was this article for you?

Business Watch

Covering the intersection of business and policy, and informing Michigan employers and workers on the long road back from coronavirus.

Thanks to our Business Watch sponsors.

Support Bridge's nonprofit civic journalism. Donate today.

Only donate if we've informed you about important Michigan issues

See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:

  • “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
  • “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
  • “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.

If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate Now