By Jamie Martin
To strengthen its specialty crop industry, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) has awarded $567,424 to 11 projects through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). The program encourages innovation, collaboration, and education among Tennessee farmers and researchers.
“Tennessee’s specialty crops—from strawberries and hops to lavender and mushrooms—are vital to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” said Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt. “We are proud to support innovative projects that address today’s challenges and open new opportunities for our farmers and agribusinesses.”
Administered by TDA’s Business Development Division and funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the SCBGP supports fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture.
The 2025 grant recipients represent a diverse set of initiatives. Serenity Springs Lavender Farm will host a Northeast Tennessee Farm Trail Weekend to promote agritourism and lavender farming. Tennessee State University will lead multiple pest and crop management research projects focusing on mushrooms, woody crops, and AI-driven precision agriculture.
The University of Memphis will use aerial technology to identify orchard diseases early, while the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture will target spotted lanternfly control, hop and strawberry production, and create a digital Southeastern Vegetable Crop Handbook.
These projects include nine research initiatives, one educational program, and one marketing effort, all designed to enhance Tennessee’s specialty crop sector and long-term sustainability.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-steve-baccon
Categories: National