Washington state is teaming with the USDA to shore up local food systems that support healthy communities and spur economic growth.

Earlier this year, state lawmakers approved $8 million in new ongoing funding for the Washington State Department of Agriculture’s local food infrastructure grant.

Then this summer, USDA announced its Resilient Food System Infrastructure Program would be providing $9.4 million for the state to give out grants and technical assistance to expand local food chain capacity.

In 2022 and 2023, nearly $20 million in grants were awarded to small farms and local food businesses through related WSDA grant programs. State officials say the businesses aided by these programs have demonstrated the important role they play in maintaining a vibrant and robust local food system. Continued funding from Washington legislators will support the effort.

In addition to state-funded programming, WSDA is partnering with USDA on the newly announced Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program. Federal funding from this program will complement the state program, supporting continued expansion of capacity and farm viability.

Funds will be used primarily for large-scale grants and technical assistance.

WSDA is seeking comments and suggestions by Sept. 15.

Source: Washington State Department of Agriculture