Feds give $750K to train new Maine farmers
A Portland group has received a federal grant to train new farmers in Maine, with a focus on immigrants with limited resources and those who are socially disadvantaged.
U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree announced Monday that Portland-based Cultivating Community received a $750,000 grant as part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Development Program. Pingree is a member of the House Appropriations Committee and Agriculture Subcommittee, which sets the Department of Agriculture’s budget.
In addition to providing land-based training to new farmers, the grant will also be used to expand the capacity of other organizations that serve Maine farmers.
“Farming in Maine is growing," Pingree said in a prepared statement. "More young people and women are taking up farming and new immigrants are adding diversity to our agricultural sector. That trend is helping us rebuild and grow our farm economy.”
“And that's good for everyone because it not only gives consumers more access to fresh, local food but it also keeps our food dollars right here in our communities,” she continued. “This grant is going to go a long way toward helping with these great, innovative programs to give new immigrants the skills they need to be productive members of our local agricultural economy.”
Craig Lapine, Cultivating Community’s executive director, said in a prepared statement that the funds will aid in the expansion of Maine’s farming sector.
“Maine is a great place for small farmers and a welcoming community for new farmers from all over— from around Maine, around the United States and new immigrants from other countries,” he said. “What we are doing is helping those farmers who are new to this country and come from different agricultural traditions learn the skills they need to do business here and be part of our farm economy.”
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