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PHOTO: Olde Haven Farm, in Chelsea (Kelby Young photo)
BANGOR – Farms in Bowdoinham and Chelsea are among 10 in Maine that will share more than $2 million in grants through the Value-Added Producer Grant Program.
Dandelion Spring Farm in Bowdoinham and Olde Haven Farm in Chelsea each were awarded $250,000, USDA Rural Development State Director Rhiannon C. Hampson announced.
“Through supporting local farms and agricultural businesses with innovative programs like the Value-Added Producer Grant, Rural Development is contributing to a stronger and more resilient Maine food supply,” Hampson said. “These grants help expand capacity and production while creating jobs, helping rural businesses to thrive.”
In all, a total of $2,027,149 was awarded through the program in Maine.
Dandelion Spring Farm will use the money to help expand production and sales of organically produced vegetable and herbs.
Olde Haven Farm will use the money to expand production, marketing and sales of pork and lamb sausages, canned pickles and preserves. The project will allow for an increase in customer base and revenue and will add two full time jobs.
The Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program helps agricultural producers enter into value-added activities related to processing and marketing new products. The goal is to generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities and increase producer income.
