New York to receive $1m from USDA for specialty crops

New York will receive $1 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for specialty crops. The Specialty Crop Block Grant in the 2008 Farm Bill will go to programs designed to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.

In New York, these crops generate $1.34 billion each year from fruits and vegetables, wine, maple syrup, horticulture and nursery crops.

New York expects to be eligible for about $1 million in the 2009 program. The state Department of Agriculture and Markets is asking stakeholders to submit written comments on the direction of the money.

Comments will be taken through June 8 by faxing 1 (518) 457-2716, attention Specialty Crop Comments, or e-mailing nyspecialtycrops@agmkt.state.ny.us.

The department will have an advisory committee for the grant. The committee will review submitted comments and provide guidance for a competitive grant program.