According to US blueberry growers, specialty crop programs in the Farm Bill are vital to remaining competitive. Michigan Blueberry Advisory Committee President Chad Reenders stated that the Tree Assistance Program in the legislation is widely used by Michigan growers to renovate blueberry fields: “With technology, we’re able to create a better blueberry, a bigger, crunchier blueberry for everyone to enjoy. This TAP program is a little bit of assistance to farmers. It’s very expensive to tear out and replant a farm in Michigan—you’re looking at a five-year turnaround.”
He says growers would also like to see crop insurance maintained and increased funding for the Specialty Crop Initiative.
Source: brownfieldagnews.com