MDA Opens Produce Safety Grant Application

ST. PAUL (WJON News) - Small farmers looking to improve their food handling and safety procedures can apply for a new grant.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2023 Produce Safety Mini-Grant.

Get our free mobile app

To qualify, a farmer must sell one or more of the following crops:

• leafy greens
• apples
• berries
• carrots
• cucumbers
• garlic
• green beans
• herbs
• melons
• microgreens
• mushrooms
• onions
• peppers
• sprouts
• summer squash
• tomatoes.

Growers can be reimbursed for past expenses in 2022 or planned improvements in 2023. Examples include:

• supplies to build a portable handwashing station
• harvest totes or collection tools
• water testing
• consultation fees for on-farm food safety plans
• waxed boxes and market containers.

The MDA is expecting to distribute more than $26,000, with a maximum grant of $800 per farm. There is no matching fund requirement.

Applications will be accepted through March 25th, 2023.

For more information on the 2023 Produce Safety Mini-Grant, click here.

READ RELATED ARTICLES

• Skywarn Classes Offered in Stearns County
• Ford Issues Recall for Transmission Problems
• Tech High School Student Finalist for Presidential Scholar