The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture recently awarded 88 companies from 45 counties $10 million in Agricultural Innovation Grant Program grants.
The program reimburses agricultural businesses for project planning and implementation expenses. The goal is to help the businesses adopt innovative technologies and practices that implement clean energy solutions and enhance conservation. The program not only accelerates the adoption of innovative practices but adds to the long-term sustainability and productivity of an entire region.
“As our farmers face increasing demands to feed a growing population while continuing
their legacy of environmental stewardship, this fund will help power our farm and food
businesses to meet those challenges,” Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding said. “These investments ensure that Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry can continue to thrive and innovate for years to come.”
Projects include technologies that support crops that store carbon or replace nonrenewable resources, generate energy while reducing nutrient waste, and improve efficiency.
Awardees include:
Metzler Forest Products in Mifflin County was awarded $550,000 for advancing carbon products from forestlands.
Bidwell Training Center in Allegheny County was awarded $500,000 for the development of an urban agriculture farm and market.
A.M. Logging in Union County was awarded $500,000 to advance hardwood processing.
The department received more than $68 million in funding requests.