BOSTON — The state awarded farms in West Stockbridge and Lee grants to address composting and climate smart agriculture. 

 

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $3.6 million in more than 100 grant awards through several programs, including the Agricultural Food Safety Improvement Program (AFSIP), the Agricultural Composting Improvement Program (ACIP), the Cranberry Bog Renovation (CBRG) Program, and the Climate Smart Agriculture Program (CSAP).

 

"From the Berkshires to Barnstable County, our farms are significant economic drivers and the backbone of our local food system. Their success benefits us all," said Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll. "Programs like these help improve and strengthen Massachusetts farms in the short and long term."

 

The Agricultural Composting Improvement Program (ACIP) funds equipment and projects to improve agricultural composting practices and facilitate the use of compost as a valuable soil amendment on farms. MDAR also provides technical assistance to farms conducting agricultural composting and encourages farms to utilize compost as a soil amendment or manure management tool.

 

Baldwin Farm in West Stockbridge was awarded a $21,874.50 ACIP grant to purchase a compost screener.

 

High Lawn Farm in Lee was awarded a $28,200 ACIP grant to purchase a compost spreader.