Kansas enhances crop education with federal grant

By Scout Nelson

The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has recently been awarded a significant grant of $331,513.22 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. This funding is designed to boost the competitiveness of specialty crops, which include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and nursery crops such as floriculture.

A variety of innovative projects across Kansas will benefit from this grant. One notable initiative is the Highland Community College's Viticulture and Enology Program. They plan to launch a comprehensive marketing campaign to highlight Kansas' vineyard and winery industry. This includes leasing billboards along major highways, executing a targeted social media campaign, and supporting the annual Cheers Kansas wine festival.

Another significant project is "Our Earliest Eaters," which collaborates with the Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom to enhance nutrition knowledge among children in licensed early childcare facilities. This initiative will provide specialized curricula on Kansas specialty crops and offer reimbursements for locally grown produce.

Additionally, the Kansas Specialty Crop Growers Association aims to expand networking and market opportunities for growers in underserved regions. Meanwhile, the Kansas State Department of Education will focus on integrating specialty crops into Child Nutrition Programs through educational workshops that connect food service directors with local producers.

Other projects include exploring mungbean production for its adaptability in Kansas environments and developing strategies to protect nursery plants from pests at Kansas State University. Prairieland Market in Saline County will enhance community knowledge on purchasing, preparing, and preserving specialty crops through educational programs for all ages.

These initiatives underscore Kansas' dedication to advancing agricultural practices and education, ensuring the state remains a leader in the cultivation and promotion of specialty crops.

Photo Credit:kansas-department-of-agriculture