Oregon Announces $2.15 Million in Awards to Projects that Strengthen Food Supply Chain
Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is announcing an additional $2.15 million in awards for seven infrastructure projects made possible through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI) Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). RFSI aims to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems. The middle of the supply chain refers to the processing, aggregation, storage, wholesaling, or distribution of food products.
"Agriculture is a cornerstone of our state's economy," Governor Kotek said. "These grants will help farm and food businesses in Oregon develop and diversify local and regional market options, creating more economic opportunities for our communities across the state. We take pride in everything we grow and produce in our great state."
ODA is the administrator of the federal funds and has selected 24 projects recommended by an advisory committee, representing a total investment of $4M that will directly support middle-of-the-supply-chain infrastructure.
Funded Projects include:
Fry Family Farm in Medford is a women-owned, small family farm that provides over 40 different varieties of organic vegetables, grains, and fruits. This project will create the first designated organic milling facility in Southern Oregon by expanding and refurbishing existing silos and milling room as well as purchasing milling equipment.