February 28, 2023
Minnesota produce farmers who improve on-farm food safety systems may be eligible to reimburse their expenses through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) 2023 Produce Safety Mini-Grant, which is now accepting applications.
The Produce Safety Mini-Grant will distribute a total of approximately $26,400. Awardees will receive up to $800 per farm. No matching funds are required.
Applicants must be a Minnesota produce farmer that sells one or more of the following crops to be eligible: leafy greens, apples, berries, carrots, cucumbers, garlic, green beans, herbs, melons, microgreens, mushrooms, onions, peppers, sprouts, summer squash/zucchini, or tomatoes.
Growers may be reimbursed for past expenses occurring January 1, 2022 – March 25, 2023, and future expenses taking place March 26, 2023 – July 14, 2023.
Examples of eligible expenses include:
- Supplies to build or purchase a portable handwashing station
- Harvest totes or collection tools
- Water testing for generic E. coli
- Consultation fees for developing an on-farm food safety plan
- Waxed boxes and market containers
Additional information and the online application are available on the MDA website at www.mda.state.mn.us/minigrant.
Farmers can contact the MDA Produce Safety Program at 651-539-3648 to request a paper copy. Applications will be accepted through 11:59 p.m. on March 25, 2023.
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Media Contact
Larry Schumacher, MDA Communications
651-201-6629
larry.schumacher@state.mn.us
Dicamba | New Use Review 157.85 KB
2023 Minnesota Irrigator Program
Starts:
Wed, 03/1/2023 - 8:30 am
Ends:
Wed, 03/1/2023 - 3:30 pm
Location:
Dakota County Extension Office4100 220th Street W #101
Farmington, MN 55024
MDA is a:
Sponsor
Presenter
Details:
The Minnesota Irrigator Program is a 3-day program on the first three Wednesdays in March (March 1st, 8th, and 15th).
- Are you an irrigator concerned about matching your irrigation with crop water use?
- Are you wondering how to improve water use efficiency and reduce water costs?
The Minnesota Irrigator Program (MIP), is a great opportunity to learn more about irrigation scheduling for your soil and crops, how to incorporate nutrient management and irrigation best management practices (BMPs), how to select the right sprinkler packages for you, and special topics like drip irrigation and remote sensing. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will talk about the well permitting process and the Soil and Water Conservation District and Natural Resource Conservation Services will talk about available funding opportunities. This is a great opportunity to learn about the available tools for irrigators.
MIP is one of the requirements to attain the Irrigation Endorsement to the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program. If you are interested in being recognized for the great stewardship you do on your farm, this is a great program.
10.5 CEUs will also be offered, so this is a great program for crop advisors and conservation staff as well.
Breakfast and lunch are provided. Cost for the 3-day program is $75.
Category
License Title (formerly Alternate License Title)
Firewood Heat Treatment Certificate
