In January 2011 the WNC Agricultural Options Program awarded six community groups and 47 farmers grants totaling $326,000 to assist them in farm diversification and joint marketing and distribution efforts.
Three of the individual awardees received $9,000 grants, 25 received $6,000 and 19 received $3,000. Community groups received varying amounts totaling $92,000. Projects increase the economic sustainability of farm businesses as well as provide demonstration to other transitioning farmers.
Read the press release, click here.
Click here to see a list of the 2011 recipients.
Mission of WNC AgOptions: Building sustainable farming communities in our mountain region by providing resources directly to farmers who are diversifying or expanding their operations.
The ultimate goal of WNC AgOptions is to protect mountain farmland by assisting the longevity of farm enterprises and encouraging groups of farmers to solve logistical challenges in the local agricultural system.