AUGUSTA – The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program is offering grants for projects that explore new ideas in sustainable food and fiber production. Three of these grant programs have application deadlines in December, with awards announced in the early spring.

Farmer grants are for commercial farmers who want to test a new practice or idea, often by conducting an experiment, trial or on-farm demonstration. Projects can explore a wide range of topics such as pest management, soil health, adding value, cover crops, grazing, marketing, livestock herd health or new production techniques. Funds can be used to pay for the farmer’s time and for materials specific to the project. Awards are capped at $10,000 and the application deadline is Dec. 16.

Sustainable community grants are for projects that connect farming and economic development. Projects can address issues like finance, marketing, land and water use, enterprise development, adding value to farm products or farm labor. Applicants must be affiliated with an organization such as a community nonprofit, Cooperative Extension, local government, educational institution, planning board, farming cooperative or an incorporated citizens group. This grant is offered in partnership with the Northeast Center for Rural Development. Awards are capped at $25,000 and the application deadline is Dec. 2.

Partnership grants are for Cooperative Extension, NRCS and other agricultural service providers who work directly with farmers. Partnership grants support on-farm research and demonstration projects that address a wide range of topics in sustainable agriculture, and funds can be used to pay for personnel, materials, sampling, supplies, testing and to compensate cooperating farmers for their time. Awards are capped at $10,000 and the application deadline is Dec. 9.

Applications for all three grant programs are posted on the Northeast SARE Web site at www.uvm.edu/~nesare or applicants may call 802-656-0471 to request a printed copy.