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CFAP Expands List of Eligible Commodity Crops
On July 9, US Secretary of Agriculture, Sonny Perdue, announced adjustments made to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). Notable additions include: arugula, beets, greens, kale greens, lettuce, herbs, peas, and Swiss chard. Expansions for some previously eligible crops include: apples, garlic, potatoes, and raspberries.
Please see the above link for a full list of additions, expansions, and unqualified commodities and for corrected payment rates under this program. Details for applying also found on this page. The CFAP application period is open until August 28, 2020.
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Produce Safety Grant Helps Vermont Farm Quickly Adapt to COVID-19
When COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic in March, Kara and Ryan Fitzbeauchamp of Evening Song Farm made radical changes to their business: they canceled their farmers markets for the season, developed an online store, and adjusted their field maps to meet the demands of a larger volume of CSA sales. Fortunately, thanks to proactive investments in on-farm food safety practices, the changes that Kara and Ryan needed to make to their wash/pack processes due to COVID-19 were minimal.
Click the link above to watch our interview with Evening Song Farm to learn more.
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Vermont Employer Mask/Face Covering Survey Launched
Developed by Vermont's Regional Development Corporations, Associated Industries of Vermont, Vermont Chamber of Commerce, Vermont Retail & Grocers Association, and other business organizations, this survey invites Vermont's employers to help identify employer masks/face coverings and other personal protective equipment (PPE) needs in the state.
The purpose of this survey is to help quantify use, demand (current and future), and supply of masks/face coverings to help inform ongoing efforts to assist Vermont employers in securing the masks/face coverings and other PPE they want and need.
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NASDA Advocates for Broadband in Rural Areas
"The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) signed on to a letter urging the President of the United States and Congress to take action on rural broadband extension as part of the recently formed American Connection Project Broadband Coalition. The following statement of support for the coalition can be attributed to NASDA CEO Dr. Barb Glenn:
"In rural communities, internet connection is a lifeline every day, with added urgency during the COVID-19 pandemic. As advocates for rural resiliency, NASDA is proud to join nearly 50 organizations in continuing our work to expand broadband access to areas where it’s needed most. We look forward to working with the Administration, Congress and the diverse members of this group to develop innovative solutions to uplift agriculture and rural America through enhanced broadband access."
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