Boise, Idaho - The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) today announced it has partnered with the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to award $5.5 million for 27 projects through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI).

“Projects funded through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program are building strength and resilience in Idaho’s food system, diversifying agricultural markets, creating new revenue streams for small and mid-sized producers, and providing economic opportunities for local communities,” said USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffitt. “USDA is grateful for Idaho’s support strengthening local and regional agricultural supply chains.”

Through this program, ISDA will fund 27 projects, including six Infrastructure Grants and 21 Equipment Grants to support middle of the supply chain infrastructure.

Examples of Funded Projects:

Fish Processors Inc. is utilizing grant funding to strengthen the local trout industry by expanding our processing and marketing capabilities, offering local producers dependable marketing channels for their products.

WEB2, LLC, a subsidiary of JC Watson Co., will make a significant improvement needed in the rail infrastructure, as well as packing process enhancements required to better prepare and package Idaho onions for rail shipment and distribution.

Salmon Valley Stewardship will equip a centralized, community commercial kitchen space where regional producers and food-businesses can process, add value to and distribute their products, connect with regional markets and increase economic viability.

“This collaborative initiative with USDA presents a unique opportunity for our state,” said ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt. “We diligently assessed grant applications by region, commodity, and overall stakeholder impact. The diversity of our grant recipients—from small commercial kitchens in rural communities to some of Idaho's most recognized ag businesses—reflects our commitment to advancing agricultural communities across Idaho.”

This awarded funding is part of the $420 million available through Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure grant program to build capacity within the middle of the supply chain and support local and regional producers. Through this program, AMS has entered into cooperative agreements with state agencies, commissions, or departments responsible for agriculture, commercial food processing, seafood, or food system and distribution activities or commerce activities in states or U.S. territories.

For more information and to view a complete list of awarded projects, visit agri.idaho.gov/marketing/grants-and-loans/resilient-food-systems-infrastructure-program/

 

Media Contact:

Sydney Kennedy

Public Information Officer

(208) 986-1566

media@isda.idaho.gov