Bitterroot businesses awarded state grants
by JENNY HARRIS - Ravalli Republic
The Montana Agriculture Development Council recently awarded more than $47,000 to local valley businesses.
The grants are awarded on behalf of the MADC Growth Through Agriculture Program, a program that allots grants and loans for Montana agricultural development, in support of innovative ideas that enhance the state’s agriculture industry.
Yourganic Farm in Hamilton was awarded $6,550 for equipment, supplies and materials for the expansion of the farm’s hog operation.
Hamilton’s Trapper Creek Winery is the recipient of $21,572 awarded for use in advertising, promotion, equipment and supplies for the company’s national sales expansion.
Trapper Creek Winery part-owner Lisa Shultz said the grant will help the business increase production.
“We’re beginning to increase production and open a new account out of state,” Shultz said. “Things are going very well and we’re very busy. The state grant is a big help, especially right now. It’s great to know independent, local businesses that supply a true Montana product are so supported by the state.”
BVS, a Stevensville company that works in conjunction with the University of Montana studying the global crisis of honeybee colony collapse, received a $20,000 grant.
The grant is awarded for demonstrations of the company’s virus identification technology and dissemination of data for Montana beekeepers.
Dave Wick, UM bee scientist said the grant will allow the project to continue in-depth research of viruses in honeybees.
“The state has been tremendous in helping our studies,” Wick said. “The people that made this possible have been a huge help and are allowing the research to be continued on an in-depth level, that greatly affects bee management.”
MGTAP Manager Collin Waters commended agriculture projects in the Bitterroot Valley.
“This past year, we’ve seen very innovative ag projects come from the Bitterroot,” Waters said. “Montana agriculture projects, expansion and growth are all over the state, especially in the Bitterroot. These projects are coming forward and receiving funds for such.”
MDAC Project grants are awarded on a quarterly cycle. The next deadline for project applications to the MGTAP is April 30. For more information on project grants or to obtain an application, contact Waters at the Montana Department of Agriculture at (406)444-2402 or at agr@mt.gov.
Reporter Jenny Harris can be reached at 363-3300 or at jharris@ravallirepublic.com
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