By Jamie Martin
The administration announced a new investment in urban agriculture during a visit to Columbus, Georgia. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack awarded a $145,000 grant to Turn Around Columbus, a non-profit focused on youth development and community leadership.
The grant is part of a larger $1.5 million awarded to the University of Georgia's Archway Partnership through the USDA's Urban County Committee pilot program. This program supports urban agriculture initiatives across the country.
"Urban producers are a vital part of our agricultural system," said Vilsack. "This grant shows our commitment to all producers, regardless of location or farm size."
The funding will allow Turn Around Columbus to expand its educational programs, training initiatives, and marketing efforts. They will also be able to purchase new equipment to increase their production capacity. These efforts all contribute to the organization's mission of youth development and community building in Columbus.
This grant is just one example of USDA's commitment to supporting both urban and rural agriculture in Georgia. Other initiatives include the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program, which helps farmers adopt sustainable practices, and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement, which strengthens local food systems.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid
Categories: National