Helena, Mont., The Montana Alfalfa Seed Committee is seeking proposals for grant funding available for projects, applied research, and feasibility analyses addressing Montana’s alfalfa seed industry needs and opportunities. Montana produced over three million pounds of alfalfa seed valued at $4.7 million in 2013.
Proposals should have practical, near-term application involving practices or organizational arrangements that will stimulate an expanded alfalfa seed industry. With $35,000 available for project grants, the committee identified research projects about alfalfa seed fertility, including levels of micro-nutrients and macro-nutrients, and timing of fertilizer application, as their top priority. Additionally, the committee is encouraging applicants with projects benefiting the health and production of alfalfa leaf cutter bees to apply.
Generally, projects should be focused on projects improving the quality of alfalfa seed; development or improvement of control measures, alfalfa growing culture, or other research projects to benefit the industry; development of alfalfa seed industry including marketing, and promotions; or disseminating current and new information that benefits the alfalfa seed industry in Montana. For a full list of eligible projects, view the entire request for proposal.
Proposals must be submitted by February 3, 2015 to the Agriculture Development Division, PO Box 200201, Helena, MT, 59620-0201. Projects will be reviewed and selected by the Montana Alfalfa Seed Committee.
CLICK HERE for a copy of the application.
The committee provides direction for research and marketing toward the continued growth of the alfalfa seed industry and is comprised of eight members, serving three-year terms, appointed by the Governor. The next public committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at the Big Horn Resort in Billings, Montana.
The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov.
