Five West Virginia organizations will receive more than $300,000 combined in specialty crop block grant program funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, administered through the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.
According to West Virginia Explorer, those organizations are:
West Virginia University – $43,721.44
West Virginia University will conduct research and outreach activities to identify solutions and educate growers on managing two major cucurbit diseases prevalent in West Virginia, boosting market yields and improving financial returns.
West Virginia University – $44,648.00
West Virginia University aims to identify genetic mutations linked to insecticide resistance in codling moths to help growers make informed decisions and improve pest management strategies.
Mountaineer Beekeepers Association – $11,359.56
The association will expand its community-based Honey Extraction Equipment Program statewide by adding five new kits and partnering with the West Virginia Farmers Market Association to enhance outreach, scheduling, and long-term sustainability.
West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition – $74,998.27
The West Virginia Food and Farm Coalition will pilot a comprehensive youth program in Pocahontas County that combines internships, curriculum development, year-round crop production, and farmer-led education to enhance agricultural learning, entrepreneurship, and local food system engagement for more than 500 students annually.
West Virginia Department of Agriculture – $43,263.63
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture will promote local specialty crops to consumers, retailers, and restaurants through its WV Grown program with digital advertising, promotions, outreach, training, and meetings.
West Virginia Department of Agriculture – $31,736.84
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture will support the state’s pumpkin specialty crop industry through agritourism marketing, the development of materials for farmers and consumers, and the promotion of farm tours and signage.
Wheeling Park High School Agriculture Program – $19,194.62
The Wheeling Park High School Agriculture Program will expand student learning in specialty crop production and sales by extending growing seasons, enhancing customer sales experiences, and building an ADA-compliant outdoor garden in collaboration with the carpentry and special education departments.
The crop block grants, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, are intended to address specific needs of local farmers. By providing financial assistance, the grants aim to enhance farming infrastructure, promote innovative farming techniques, and support the marketing of local produce. The initiative has been welcomed by many in the agricultural community who view it as a vital step toward reinforcing the local food system.