The Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) awarded $51,200 in livestock grant funding to eight nonprofit organizations for projects that will foster growth within the Hoosier livestock industry.“We are excited about these projects and the opportunity they afford to strengthen and cultivate Indiana’s livestock sector,” said Ted McKinney, ISDA Director. “As an important part of food production and our state’s economy, we will continue to do everything we can to add value to our commodity products and grow the industry through innovative solutions.”
Grant submissions were reviewed by a committee to determine the programs and events that will have the greatest impact across all sectors of Indiana agriculture. The following organizations and projects received funding:
| Organization: | Project/Program: | Funding: |
| Hendricks County 4-H Youth Council | CAE virus education, testing and eradication in Indiana goat herds | $800 |
| Hoosier Rabbit & Cavy Shows | 94th Annual ARBA Convention and Show | $10,000 |
| Indiana 4-H Foundation | Pilot education program for the quality care of animals | $12,000 |
| Indiana Board of Animal Health | Livestock traceability enhancement and efficiency | $12,000 |
| Indiana Boer Goat Association | Indiana Boer Goat Classic Series | $2,400 |
| Indiana Forage Council | Excellent forage management adds more value to livestock | $2,500 |
| Indiana Milk Quality Professionals | Indiana Milk Quality Conference | $6,500 |
| Indiana State Fair Foundation | Celebration of Champions (Livestock Promotion) | $5,000 |
Information about the 2018 grant cycle should be available early fall. Nonprofit organizations interested in submitting a grant proposal for 2018 should contact Agricultural Marketing & Industry Development Manager Kimmi Devaney at KDevaney@isda.in.gov.