USDA Awards Millions to Washington Specialty Crop Farms
The funding supports local farmers in Whatcom and Skagit counties to improve crop resilience and expand their businesses.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Organic Food
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Do you support prioritizing federal grant funding for local specialty crop research in your community?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded $4.7 million in grants to Washington state to boost specialty crop production and research. Over $1.1 million of this funding will specifically support local agricultural initiatives in Whatcom and Skagit counties.
Why it matters
These federal grants aim to strengthen the regional food system by improving farm productivity, soil health, and market access for Washington specialty crops. The investment provides critical resources for local growers and researchers to expand their reach and resilience.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture awarded $4.7 million in 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funding, with $1.1 million dedicated to local Whatcom and Skagit county projects. The long-term yield increases for these specific crops are not yet fully measured.
The players
U.S. Department of Agriculture
A federal agency that manages food safety and agricultural funding programs.
Washington State University
A public research institution focused on agricultural science and crop health.
Northwest Cider Association
An industry organization dedicated to promoting and marketing regional cider products.
Viva Farms
A business incubator and resource center for local specialty crop farmers.
Kulshan Carbon Trust
An organization conducting environmental and soil health research for local agriculture.
The details
The program distributes capital to support sustainable farming practices, including biochar soil research led by the Kulshan Carbon Trust and Bow Hill Blueberries. Washington State University will utilize its portion of the funding to study blueberry pollination and cider apple development. These efforts collectively work to enhance crop resilience while helping smaller farms expand their business capacity.
Timeline
The 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funding was awarded in 2026.
Health Landscape
This investment aligns with the 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which prioritizes long-term agricultural stability. By fostering soil health and crop research, the initiative strengthens the regional food system against environmental and economic volatility.
Readers interested in local food quality can support these regional producers as they implement new soil health and research-backed farming techniques. These investments prioritize crop resilience, which contributes to the long-term availability of local, nutrient-dense produce.
The takeaway
Federal support for specialty crops aims to make Washington's local food supply more productive and resilient through improved soil and research. Check labels for local produce to support regional growers and explore seasonal farmers markets to incorporate these crops into your diet.
Further reading
Learn more about local sustainable farming efforts in our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by My Bellingham Now -.
Live Poll
Do you support prioritizing federal grant funding for local specialty crop research in your community?
