The USDA awarded nearly $900,000 throughout the Pacific Northwest and Alaska in partnership agreements to develop risk management tools, education and outreach.
USDA's Risk Management Agency Spokane Regional office announced the funding for partnership agreements to help provide new ways for producers to manage agricultural risks, and for outreach and educational opportunities to women, limited-resource and other traditionally underserved farmers and ranchers.
Proposals were accepted from public and private entities including colleges and universities; Federal, State, and local agencies; non-profit and for-profit organizations; and others. All partnership agreements were competitive and awarded based on merit.
The Potato Growers of Idaho submitted a proposal titled "Risk Management Education for Potato Growers - Potato Tuberworm and Potato Cyst Nematode." The proposal received nearly $84,000 of the award.
This project will effectively inform growers of the financial, market, production, trade and regulatory risks associated with the devastating pests, the potato tuberworm and potato cyst nematode, which have the potential to destroy potato yields. It will serve Idaho potato growers.
PGI will work witht the RMA to provide growers with educational material and opportunities via meetings, workshops and other programs. It will also provide the necessary funding to bring in outside experts for workshops and presentations.
Contact the PGI at (208) 785-1110 or
pgi@cableone.net.