North Dakota Gets $3.1M in Specialty Crop Grants

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The amount of federal money North Dakota is getting this year for grants to develop specialty crops is increasing nearly sevenfold over 2013.

State Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring says the state will get $3.1 million, up from $483,000 last year. He says an emphasis on specialty crops in the new farm bill is the reason.

The federal government defines specialty crops as fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, and horticulture and nursery crops. Specialty crops grown commercially in North Dakota include dry beans, dry peas, lentils, potatoes, confection sunflowers, grapes, honey and various vegetables.

Grant applications are due May 23. Grants will be awarded later this year.