The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is offering a new grant program to help Minnesota dairy producers move from Grade B status to Grade A status and help Grade A producers maintain their status.

“Our dairy farmers have been struggling with low prices for years, and now they’re challenged with surviving this tough winter weather,” said Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “This new grant program should provide a significant boost to many dairies in the state.”

Producers may apply for up to $10,000 with no matching requirement. Eligible costs include the equipment, services, and physical improvements needed to meet or maintain Grade A dairy farm and quality standards.

Proposals are due by 4 p.m. on May 1, 2019. For more information and to apply, producers may visit the AGRI Dairy Farm Improvement Grant webpage.