USDA Awards $13.1 Million in Value-Added Rural Development Grants, NCGA Notes
(10-18-04)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) last week announced the approval of 97 value-added agricultural product
market development grants in 34 states,
totaling more than $13.1 million. In support of the administration’s
2001 energy plan, $2.1 million will fund proposals from biomass and renewable
energy ventures.
National Corn Growers Association
(NCGA) President Leon Corzine said the grants support NCGA’s efforts to expand the ethanol industry and increase opportunities
for the nation’s corn producers.
“These grants will provide financial assistance to ethanol plants and
other value-added ventures, which serve as significant economic engines for
rural America,” Corzine said. “Not only do these ventures increase
farm income, but they also create countless jobs, increase local tax revenue
and provide consumers with high-quality domestically produced goods. As we
keep an eye on the future, providing support for these value-added ventures
will become increasingly important.”
Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman, who announced the grants last week, said
16 percent of the selected proposals deal with biomass or renewable energy.
“The Bush administration continues to place a high priority on creating
new sources of renewable and biomass energy through such grant programs as
the value-added producer grant program,” Veneman said. “Creating
an energy independent nation through utilization of our nation’s natural
resources is a valuable investment in America’s future.”
Among the applicants selected for biomass or renewable energy-related grants
are: