By Andi Anderson
On Friday, August 23, 2024, Lillian Salerno, the Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), will tour Naturally Better Soil Products in Fennville, Michigan.
This visit comes on the heels of a significant $2.2 million grant awarded by the USDA to upgrade and expand farm-based nutrient alternative production facilities in the area.
The grant is part of a larger effort to promote the use of biofertilizers and improve sustainable agricultural practices across the country. The project in Fennville will focus on processing anaerobically digested manure to sequester 85-95 percent of the phosphorus through solid/liquid separation.
The separated solids will then undergo further processing, increasing the domestic availability of nutrient alternatives and contributing to more environmentally friendly farming practices.
Salerno’s visit will include a tour of Hillside Dairy Farm, located at 1501 62nd Street, where she will see firsthand how the grant is being utilized to enhance nutrient management and soil health.
Following the tour, Salerno will hold a press availability to discuss the USDA’s ongoing commitment to supporting rural development and sustainable farming initiatives.
This project is expected to have a significant impact on the local farming community by providing new resources for nutrient management and promoting the adoption of biofertilizers.
By expanding the production facilities and improving the efficiency of nutrient processing, the initiative aims to reduce reliance on traditional fertilizers and promote a more sustainable approach to agriculture.
For those interested in attending the event, Alec Lloyd, the Public Information Officer for USDA Rural Development, is coordinating the visit and can be reached at (517) 324-5204. An RSVP is requested for those planning to attend.
The USDA’s investment in this project reflects its broader mission to support rural communities and advance agricultural innovation, ensuring that farmers have the tools they need to succeed while protecting the environment.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy