USDA Announces Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program Awards in Maine and California
USDA announced that it is awarding Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program (RFSI) grants in Maine and California to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems. This awarded funding is part of the $420 million available nationwide through the RFSI grant program. In Maine, five funded projects will support buckwheat processing, grain extrusion, kelp processing, and shelf-stable products from Maine ingredients. Meanwhile, USDA and California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) are awarding $21.5 million for 117 projects, including seven Infrastructure Grants and 110 Equipment Grants. These projects include development of a food distribution system across rural Northwestern California. CDFA is still reviewing 11 additional projects.