Grants Support Farmers Shifting to Crop and Orchard Farming
The Physicians Committee is inviting farmers to apply for farm transition grants of up to $15,000. These grants are available to farmers who want to shift from dairy, poultry, or other livestock farming to growing crops, planting orchards, or other plant-based agriculture. The deadline to apply is June 3, 2025.
Farmers interested in transitioning can email Jeanne at jeannem@pcrm.org for application details. Eligible applicants must describe their current farm operations, explain how they will use the funds, and share their reasons for making the transition.
Farm transitions are already happening across the U.S. The Faaborg brothers in Iowa switched from hog farming to growing mushrooms. In Wisconsin, former dairy farmers like Greg Zwald and Paul Jereczek are now growing berries and hazelnuts. Many poultry farmers are repurposing their chicken barns for organic vegetable farming.
“Blueberries, beans, greens, and other plant-based foods grown by U.S. farmers can help people improve heart health, prevent diabetes, and maintain a healthy weight, among other benefits,” said Roxanne Becker, MBChB, of the Physicians Committee.
The grants aim to help farmers shift to sustainable practices that provide financial stability. Lawmakers, including U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, are also advocating for government funding to assist farmers in transitioning away from livestock agriculture.
With egg prices rising and bird flu outbreaks impacting poultry farms, alternatives like chickpeas and mung beans are becoming more popular. Farmers planting these crops may see increased demand in the future. Additionally, fruit and nut trees can help improve water quality and provide a sustainable income.
For more details on the grant program, visit www.ConvertToCrops.org or contact your local agriculture department.