Lettuce fieldThe USDA announced a nearly $121 million investment to advance research and develop solutions facing specialty crop and organic agriculture producers. Specialty crop research will receive $70.4 million, while $50.5 million will support farmers and ranchers who grow organic food, fiber and organic products.

The investment is part of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s (NIFA) Specialty Crop Research Initiative. Fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops are included.

USDA Chief Scientist and Under Secretary for Research, Education and Economics Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young stressed the importance of specialty and organic crops in diet nutrition.

The NFIA specialty crop investment is on top of the USDA’s previously announced $82.3 million in grant funding through the Agricultural Marketing Service to enhance specialty crop competitiveness.

Read more on the USDA investment in specialty crop research and organic ag production here.