The state’s Division of Agriculture is accepting applications from Alaskan residents and organizations for yearlong food security microgrants.
Through the state’s program, individuals can be awarded up to $5,000 and organizations up to $10,000 for small-scale projects that promote food security, like greenhouses, compost units, hydroponics and fencing.
Priority will be given to projects in the highest food insecure areas. Haines is listed as twelfth most food-insecure out of 29 census areas in Alaska.
More information, including submission details, can be found at http://dnr.alaska.gov/ag/ag_grants.htm. An overview by David Schade, director of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, can be viewed on the “Alaska Grown” YouTube channel.
The application period ends at 5:00 p.m. on March 22.
In other news, the Chilkat Valley Historical Society (CVHS) is still accepting applications for vouchers to install fences around gardens, fruit trees and animal enclosures.
Since November, the non-profit has awarded vouchers, averaging about $500, to 13 local food producers.
The goal of the project is to grow more food locally and protect bears, CVHS president Sue Chasen said in a press release.
Funding for the project comes from a $12,000 Rasmuson Foundation grant and a private donation.
Residents who need new food fencing can apply for vouchers on the CVHS website by April 1.