Napa County is set to receive $500,000 in funding to assist in the recruitment and training of farmers from underrepresented groups, as announced by Congressman Mike Thompson.
The funds are intended to bolster efforts to develop and sustain the skills of Napa’s farmers, keeping the state’s specialty crop sector competitive.
The federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program will provide the grant.
Congressman Thompson stated, “Our region has a strong tradition of agriculture made possible by the farmworkers who work every day to grow world-class products.” He added, “The funding from the federal Specialty Crop Block Grant Program will help to recruit and retain farmworkers and provide current farmworkers with the training and education they need to build a successful career in the fields and beyond. I look forward to seeing how this funding helps to strengthen our agricultural community.”
County officials have announced plans to attract young farmers through youth mentorship and apprenticeship programs.