Des Moines, Iowa — Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has announced that 15 Iowa dairy projects have been awarded Choose Iowa Dairy Innovation Grants. And one of the grants is being given to a northwest Iowa project.
The cost-share grants will help expand on-farm dairy processing and incorporate labor-saving technology, both of which will help to increase the availability of Iowa dairy products for consumers to enjoy. The announcement was made at the Iowa State University Creamery in Ames, which was awarded a grant to expand cheese processing at their on-campus facility.
Secretary Naig said, “The Choose Iowa Dairy Innovation Grant Program helps Iowa dairy farms by offering cost-share grants for new processing equipment or labor-saving technologies. Ultimately, consumers will benefit by enjoying a wider variety of Iowa dairy products. With funding for 15 projects, this program not only bolsters Iowa’s dairy industry but also supports the growth of these farms and the vitality of the surrounding communities.”
The grant in our area went to Knapptime Dairy of Larchwood. The $100,000 grant will go toward a compost barn and 24-stall rotary parlor. The total budget for the project is over half a million dollars.
Photo: stock photo of dairy cow (KIWA Staff photo)
