$300k in grants announced for cranberry growers in Massachusetts
"The cranberry industry is a crucial part of the commonwealth's economy and has been for 200 years," Sen. Pacheco said. "I'm so pleased that the Cape Cod Cranberry Growers' Association has received this funding to support the agricultural industry of Southeastern Massachusetts."
This year's grants will support a variety of projects that help increase market opportunities for local growers and food producers, increase access to fresh, local, nutritious food in communities across the commonwealth and promote sustainable production practices.
Carver is joined by eight other communities and projects receiving these funds, with a total of $319,524 administered for projects aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Massachusetts specialty crops such as fruits and vegetables, dried fruits, tree nuts, and horticulture and nursery products.
"These organizations help the commonwealth's specialty crop farmers stay competitive by marketing specialty crops to a wider audience, as well as studying and employing innovative, sustainable farming techniques," said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary, Matthew Beaton. "With these grants, we hope to encourage a new generation of farmers and raise awareness of Massachusetts farms that produce a wide range of local products, from cranberries and oysters to apples and nursery plants."
"Because so much of Massachusetts Agriculture meets USDA's specialty crop definition, we are able to provide support to a very wide range of many of the commonwealth's leading agricultural sectors," said MDAR Commissioner John Lebeaux. "These grants will enhance crop production, food safety and education through every step in the supply chain - from farm to table."
source: mattapoisett.wickedlocal.com
