Examples include advancing biosecurity protections and animal disease preparation and response; and enhancing the state’s supply chain to increase food security.
"Funding these projects expands our capacity to tackle costly, complex challenges like the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza crisis, and other diseases that threaten our food supply," Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said in a statement. "Research feeds innovation and productivity, keeping Pennsylvania's $132.5 billion agriculture industry growing."
Examples of successful projects include a campaign to raise awareness about highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
In February 2022, $50,000 was granted to create and purchase advertisement space to inform the public about HPAI and how it affects birds and ag.
Another project saw more than $88,000 go towards working with poultry and feed companies for feed trials of hemp in animal diets.
Project proposals can be submitted until 11 a.m. on March 21, 2024.