Idaho Projects Awarded Funds To Promote Food Resiliency
AMS and the Idaho State Department of Agriculture have awarded $5.5 million for 27 projects statewide through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program.
“The goal is to provide opportunities to support infrastructure and update equipment in the middle of the supply chain," said the ISDA's Sydney Kennedy. "So, what we mean by that is we're talking processing, manufacturing and storing distribution, all those things are in the middle of the supply chain for Idaho food and farm businesses.”
“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 Moffitt. “USDA is grateful for Idaho’s support strengthening local and regional agricultural supply chains.”
Through this program, ISDA will fund six Infrastructure grants and 21 Equipment Grants, and Kennedy said these dollars will benefit a variety of communities across the Gem state.
“It really reaches all different corners. We're talking anywhere from the small commercial kitchen in the smaller community in Idaho, to some of the more recognizable Ag businesses across Idaho. So, really reaching a diverse group of Ag businesses.”
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.
Examples of Funded Projects across Idaho:
- 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.”
For a complete list of projects receiving funding, visit the ISDA's Website.
If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com