USDA Awards $38M for Renewable Energy and Economic Growth

Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), announced funding of $38 million to help farmers and ranchers ease the impact of high energy costs and develop long-term solutions. Of that, more than $19 million in grants will support renewable energy projects and value-added agricultural business ventures.

To date, the program has funded $116 million in value-added grants for more than 750 recipients nationwide, including $20.5 million to develop and market renewable energy projects in 29 states. Renewable energy projects in this case include biodiesel, ethanol or wind energy production or the use of biomass to generate energy.

Awards will be made on a competitive basis. Applications must be received no later than March 31.

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