Grants available for medicinal herb producers

Farmers interested in diversifying their operations by producing medicinal herbs are invited to apply for grants from the N.C. Specialty Crops Program.

The statewide program is dedicated to the development of new crops. It is a partnership between N.C. State University and the Plant Industry Division of the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Funding for the project comes from the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

To assist in developing North Carolina’s medicinal herb industry, the sponsors will award up to 17 grants to growers to produce medicinal herbs on contract. Ten of these grants will go to growers who have produced tobacco within the past three years on their farms. The remaining grants will be awarded to growers who have produced other commercial crops over the past two years.

Successful applicants will receive up to $5,000 to help offset project costs. As part of the program, growers will also receive agricultural and technical support related to the production and marketing of medicinal herbs. Farmers receiving the grants will be reimbursed in three installments during the production season.

Participation in this program will require farmers to complete an application form, meet with the project coordinator at the farm site, complete in-season production forms, maintain accurate financial records related to the project, and to be willing to host a farm field day for other potential growers.

About The Author:

Kim Liebert is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-wellness.com. Obtaining and keeping good health through healthy living, natural healing, great mental health and healthy finances.

	Medicinal Herbs
Grants available for medicinal herb producers