The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service recently announced its new Urban Agriculture initiative, and some producers in Northern Maine may be eligible to participate.
The USDA recognizes that agriculture is not defined by the location or the size of the plot, and that every day Americans are growing food in their own backyards. Because of this USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack created a new initiative to assist those urban producers in receiving the same benefits as larger commercial producers.
In Northern Maine, both Presque Isle and Caribou are eligible for this new initiative where producers are eligible for financial assistance toward conservation practices such as high tunnels, pollinator habitat, and tree plantings. There is no minimum income level to be eligible to participate. The sign-up deadline for this new initiative is Feb. 25. If you are interested, contact your local NRCS Field Office at 207-764-4153 extension 3 or visit the office at 735 Main Street in Presque Isle.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
