News

Sustainable Ag Grant program protects farmers from risk

A grant is available that allows farmers to try new ideas that might make sense on their farm.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) will provide nearly $250,000 through the Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration program.

MDA Organic and Diversification Administrator Meg Moynihan says trying something new comes with risk.

“At a cost, sometimes financially, sometimes it’s time, sometimes it’s just the lack of expectation.  So what we want to do is reduce a little of the risk, encourage farmers to try something new and share what they learn with other farmers.”

The program started in 1989 at a time when Moynihan says the word “sustainable” was fairly new.

“I think people really recognize now that these are practices that support the environment, conserve natural resources, enhance profitability on the farm and improve the quality of life on the farm.  Also (to help farmers) be productive and produce good yields.”

Practices may include incorporating cover crops, conservation tillage and alternative livestock housing.

The grant is funded by the Legislature and the maximum amount a producer can apply for is $25,000.

Moynihan tells Brownfield a review panel is used to sort through the entries.

“Some (MDA) staff review the proposal, but we also rely on outside experts.  Farmers, people that are well-versed in marketing, scientists from the University, Extension educators (and) business people.”

The panel recommends what they perceive as the top proposals to Department of Ag Commissioner Dave Frederickson, who makes the final decision on which projects to fund.

The deadline to apply for the Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration grant is the 15th of December.  For more information, click on the link or call 651 201-6012.