The State of Alaska announced on Monday that the availability of grant funds to individuals and organizations who raise livestock and have been impacted by the significant increase in livestock feed costs have an opportunity to receive additional funding.
More than $570,000 in funding is available through a special round of the Micro-Grants for Food Security Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and administered by the State of Alaska’s Division of Agriculture. DNR is targeting this competitive grant opportunity at Alaskans who raise animals to feed their families and local communities, and who are struggling with Alaska’s significant increase in livestock feed costs over the past year.
“Backyard farmers play an important role in putting local, fresh and nutritious meals on Alaskans’ plates,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. “My administration continues to focus on advancing food security across the state, and this program ensures livestock farmers can keep raising animals in Alaska.”
The grant application period opened Monday, Oct. 16, 2023 and closes at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023.
Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and currently own livestock – the grants are for existing operations and may not be used for new animals. Fixed awards will be granted to purchase feed for:
- Small animal operations (poultry, eggs, rabbits): $2,000
- Large animal operations (cattle, goats, pigs, reindeer, sheep, elk, yak, bison): $5,000
“The Division is excited to have this new grant opportunity to help our large and small livestock producers in Alaska as feed costs continue to be higher than in past years,” said Bryan Scoresby, Director of the State of Alaska Division of Agriculture. “This grant will help growers bridge the gap from the past to the future and expand production during this high feed cost period. More animals increases food security for all of us.”