Maine announces agricultural development grants

11 projects awaiting final approval

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

Commissioner of Maine’s Department of Agriculture, Walter Whitcomb, announced over $400,000 in grants for 11 projects dedicated to helping sustain and improve Maine’s agricultural industry. The projects will focus on such issues as market development, improved technology, and promotion of products produced in Maine.

He made the announcement during the Maine Agricultural Trades Show. The 11 projects, currently waiting for final state approval, were chosen from a pool of nearly 50 applicants by a review committee.

“The last Census of Agriculture found that the market value of Maine agricultural products has increased 24%,” said Governor Paul R. LePage in a press release. “The awards announced today will allow Maine agriculture to continue its momentum by helping farmers and producers realize their full economic potential to supply consumers in Maine, New England and beyond. The investments being announced today support job creators and continued growth of our natural resource economy.”

Some of the projects awaiting approval from the State of Maine Purchases Division are:

AgMatters, LLC
From Vassalboro, Maine, they would provide food safety and education for Maine Crop Distribution Systems

Crooked Face Creamery
Out of Norridgewock, they’re focus is their own market expansion

University of Maine
From Monmouth, they will look to increase local plum production

Maine’s major crop in 2013 was potatoes with valued production at over $164 million.