The UT Agricultural Development Center (ADC) was recently notified that they will receive a grant from the Southern Region, Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program. The grant will provide funding for an educational training program for agricultural leaders in Tennessee. The program will include hands-on training with sustainable and value-added agricultural enterprises.

The SARE program provides competitive grants funded by USDA and EPA to promote research and education about sustainable agriculture. Established in 1988, SARE has funded close to 1,900 projects that examine how to improve agricultural profitability, protect natural resources and foster more viable rural communities.

The ADC is the state’s primary outreach and educational program for evaluating, planning and developing value-added agriculture projects and enterprises. A part of UT’s Ag. Extension Service, during the past three years the ADC has secured more than $275,000 in external funds for enhancing the movement of value-added agriculture.

Rob Holland, Feasibility Specialist with the Agricultural Extension Service, said “Several factors are causing many Tennessee farm families and other entrepreneurs to closely evaluate income opportunities through sustainable practices and by adding value to farm or natural resource products. The SARE grant will enhance our ongoing educational programs that provide information and services that enhance the success and sustainability of agriculture in Tennessee.”

Additional information about the Agricultural Development Center and their many projects and business development resources may now be found at the Center for Profitable Agriculture (CPA) Web site (http://cpa.utk.edu/) or by contacting the CPA at (931) 486-2777 or by e-mail at cpa@utk.edu.