The United States government is working with agricultural groups to stimulate the economy, funding a number of projects across the country. In Oregon, USDA Deputy Under-Secretary Victor Vasquez announced funding for a variety of agricultural projects.
The biggest recipient was the Torii Mor Winery that received $6 million as part of the Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food initiative. This winery is one of the 11 businesses that received a loan under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
Vasquez noted how important the agriculture industry is to stimulate the economy during the current recession. “Right now, how many industries have a trade surplus? In agriculture, we have a trade surplus.”
Six nonprofit organizations including The Oregon State University Food Innovation Center and Cascade Pacific Resource Conservation & Development received funding through the Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program.
“Part of being effective in economic development is paying attention to small business, small manufacturers, small farmers,” he said. “We’re looking at systems, we’re not just looking at USDA at individual projects anymore. We’re not going to be able to do this alone.”
For more information on these programs, contact your local Farm Service Agency or County USDA office.
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