ISDA Looks to Award Over $5 Million in Grants to Strengthen Food Supply Chain Infrastructure

Jan 22, 2024

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture announced Jan. 16 the competitive solicitation process to award over $5 million in Resilient Food System Infrastructure (RFSI) Grants.

Grants will fund projects that enhance markets for agricultural producers and improve transportation of Idaho food products to local or regional markets.

Agricultural producers, processors, nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, local government entities, tribal governments and educational institutions are eligible to apply for funding.

Through stakeholder engagement and outreach, Idaho identified top priorities to expand capacity for food and beverage processing and manufacturing.

Priorities include co-pack facilities, support construction of a new facility, modernize or expand an existing facility, as well as improve the aggregation and distribution of agricultural products.

In May 2023, USDA announced the availability of up to $420 million through RFSI to strengthen local and regional food systems.

Through this program, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has entered into cooperative agreements with state agencies, commissions, or departments responsible for agriculture, commercial food processing, seafood or food system and distribution activities or commerce activities in states or U.S. territories.

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Video: Fendt Testimonial | Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 | Peter Watson Jones Ltd.

What happens when a farm buys its first Fendt? For Peter Watson Jones Ltd, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 has exceeded expectations from day one. For Jack, Farm Manager at Peter Watson Jones Ltd in North Shropshire, UK, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 wasn't just another tractor purchase. It was the farm's first experience with the Fendt brand.

Operating across a 1,200-acre arable farm alongside a 250,000-head broiler enterprise, the business has evolved significantly over the last decade, moving to a straight arable system with fewer staff and machines. Since arriving on the farm, the Fendt 726 Vario has established itself as the main drilling and cultivations tractor, earning its place through performance, versatility and efficiency. Whether it's handling large-scale cultivations or working with a new 4.5m strip-till drill, the tractor continues to impress.

Jack highlights its excellent manoeuvrability, operator comfort and ability to deliver strong pulling power at low engine speeds. The result? Outstanding fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Reliability has also been a key factor, with dependable backup from the team at TR Machinery helping to keep the tractor working when it matters most.

?? Watch as Jack shares why the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7, the farm's first Fendt, has made such a strong impression and become an integral part of their operation.