UMaine involved in initiatives to strengthen specialty crops, media report
The Maine Edge reported the University of Maine is involved in several research initiatives to strengthen and enhance some of the state’s specialty crops. Agriculture Commissioner Walter Whitcomb announced Maine is partnering with USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to invest $562,583.50 to support Maine Specialty Crop Producers and help farmers and producers meet new federal food safety rules. Under the program, UMaine will work to address pollinator safety within the confines of effective pest management of significant insects and diseases to Maine’s fruit industry, as well as research hops varieties to develop resource materials for farmers and determine unique qualities, according to the article. The university also will work with the Maine Potato Board and the Maine Wild Blueberry Commission to ensure an adequate response to pest-related hazards, decrease crop losses and increase revenues, the article states. Mainebiz and the Associated Press also reported on the projects. WABI (Channel 5) and Daily Journal carried the AP report.