Aquafeed.com | US - Funding opportunity: organic agriculture grants

US - Funding opportunity: organic agriculture grants

USDA NIFA is accepting grant applications from colleges and universities for approximately $4.7 million in funding for the Organic Transitions Program to solve critical organic agriculture issues, priorities, or problems through the integration of research, education, and extension activities in program areas

May 27, 2010

US - Funding opportunity: organic agriculture grants
USDA NIFA is accepting grant applications from colleges and universities for approximately $4.7 million in funding for the Organic Transitions Program to solve critical organic agriculture issues, priorities, or problems through the integration of research, education, and extension activities in program areas.
See: The Request for Application
Applicants and other interested parties are encouraged to contact Dr. Mary Peet who is the National Program Leader for the Plant and Animal Systems at the National Institute of Food and Agriculture in Washington, DC and who may be reached at Telephone: (202) 401-4202 Fax: (202) 401-4888 E-mail.
The purpose of the Organic Transitions Program (ORG) in FY 2010 is to explore the changes in soil quality indicators, conservation outcomes, climate change mitigation potential and other environmental services associated with certified organic farming practices and systems. USDA’s regulatory program defines organic agriculture as an ecological production system, established “to respond to site-specific conditions by integrating cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity”.
Integrated research, education, and extension projects (up to $300,000 per year) are solicited for this program. Projects may be one (1) to three (3) years in duration, but the total amount to be awarded is not to exceed $700,000. NIFA expects to make a total of six to eight awards.