Application period opens for USDA composting, food waste reduction programs
Metro Wire Staff
The USDA is now accepting applications for Composting and Food Waste Reduction cooperative agreements.
Local and tribal governments, schools, and other eligible entities can apply through the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture until Sept. 4, 2024.
These agreements aim to fund projects that address various aspects of composting and food waste reduction, including:
- Generating compost
- Increasing access to compost for agricultural producers
- Reducing reliance on fertilizer
- Improving soil quality
- Encouraging waste management and permaculture business development
- Increasing rainwater absorption
- Reducing municipal food waste
- Diverting food waste from landfills
Projects must be two years in length, with an expected start date of June 1, 2025. Detailed information is available in the notice posted on Grants.gov.
A pre-recorded webinar provides an overview of the program, including its purpose, project types, eligibility requirements, and application guidelines.