Agricultural Marketing Service March 13, 2009 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announces funding of approximately $5 million in competitive grant funds for fiscal year (FY) 2009 to increase domestic consumption of agricultural commodities by expanding direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities. Examples of direct producer-to-consumer market opportunities include new farmers' markets, roadside stands, community supported agriculture programs, agri-tourism activities, and other direct producer-to- consumer infrastructures. AMS hereby requests proposals from eligible entities from the following categories: (1) An agricultural cooperative or a producer network or association, (2) local governments, (3) nonprofit corporations, (4) public benefit corporations, (5) economic development corporations, (6) regional farmers' market authorities, and (7) Tribal governments. The maximum award per grant is $100,000. No matching funds are required. AMS strongly recommends that each applicant visit the AMS Web site at https://www.ams.usda.gov/FMPP to review a copy of the FMPP Guidelines and application package preparation information to assist in preparing the proposal narrative and application. In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, the information collection requirements have been previously approved by the Office of Budget and Management (OMB) under 0581-0235.

This action terminates a rulemaking proceeding on two proposed amendments that sought to amend the producer-handler provisions of the Appalachian and Southeast milk marketing orders. Other proposed amendments considered as part of the rulemaking proceeding were addressed in previously issued decisions.