Federal, state funds support horticulture marketing programs

Millions of dollars are distributed each year to help identify niche markets and boost marketing programs for floriculture. The USDA provides matching grants each year through the Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP). Applications for the 2008 grants are due in February.

USDA handed out $1.3 million in 26 matching grants to 21 states in 2007, including projects for greenhouse and nursery growers.

* The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries received $14,995 for Deep South wildflower seed growers to access a new market supplying native eco-type seed to states for use in landscape projects along public roads and highways.

* The Alaska Division of Agriculture received $59,845 to explore niche regional, national and international markets for Alaska peonies and other cut flowers and develop a marketing strategy to take advantage of an annual seasonal deficit in world supply.

* The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources received $61,600 to develop a marketing strategy that addresses shifts in demand for plants due to changing consumer preferences, and environmental regulations regarding water use and invasive plants.

FSMIP funds a wide range of projects addressing challenges and opportunities in marketing, transportation and distribution of U.S. food and agricultural products domestically and internationally. Proposals may involve small-, medium- or large-scale agricultural entities but should potentially benefit multiple producers or agribusinesses.

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For more: USDA, Agricultural Marketing Service, (202) 720-2704; www.ams.usda.gov/tmd/fsmip.htm.