USDA gives money for alfalfa and forage crop research

Requirements for the program and the request for applications can be found on the USDA website.
Requirements for the program and the request for applications can be found on the USDA website.

The Alfalfa Forage and Research Program (AFRP) received $1.85 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Feb. 12. 

The goal of the program is to improve alfalfa forage and seed yield through research and extension programs. The program is administered through the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).

“Research into critical agricultural science areas like this reach their full potential when coupled with extension activities,” NIFA Director Sonny Ramaswamy said. "Applicants for these grants should keep in mind the importance of reaching out to producers and farmers to share information and apply research findings. Integrating these two important functions is how agricultural solutions move from the lab to the farm and vice versa.”

Alfalfa crops are essential for soil conservation, nitrogen fixation, energy savings, crop rotation and wildlife habitat attributes. The AFRP wants researchers who will help AFRP with their goals of improvement of alfalfa forage yield while also using best practices when it comes to nutrient, water and pest management. Research focused on lessening internal and external stresses is also needed.

Applications are due on April 13. Requirements for the program and the request for applications can be found on the USDA website.