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Promoting the Strength of Minnesota's Agricultural Economy
Welcome to the MDA Marketing Minute,
the marketing e-newsletter from the Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture
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Record farm exports forecast
U.S. farm exports are forecast to set an all-time record high in 2011 according to USDA officials. The $126.5 billion in farm exports is $11.6 billion higher than the $114.9 billion export record set in 2008. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the forecast demonstrates that the demand for U.S. food and agriculture around the world is stronger than ever. He says each $1 billion in exports supports 8,000 jobs.
In 2009, Minnesota's total agricultural exports were $4.3 billion, a second historical high, and more than 32,000 jobs are directly or indirectly related to agricultural exports. The state ranks 6th nationally in ag exports. |
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Specialty crop growers get boost from USDA
The State of Minnesota will get a share of $55 million dollars in 2010 Specialty Crop Block Grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The program supports projects that enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, which are defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture. The 2010 federal allocation is 10 percent higher than last year's funding.
USDA selected Minnesota projects that support local and rural agriculture interests, increase the competitiveness of small producers, and promote or create direct marketing opportunities for specialty crop producers.
Minnesota was awarded $802,718 to fund 12 projects, including the cost of administering the grants. A complete list of the 2010 recipients can be viewed at www.mda.state.mn.us.
Minnesota growers interested in these grant opportunities to enhance their specialty crops are encouraged to participate in a free USDA webinar that will provide information on how they can apply for the 2011 grants. The webinar will be conducted Thursday, December 16 at 1:00 p.m. (CST). To register for the webinar, visit www.ams.usda.gov/scbgp or email David Weinand, Minnesota Department of Agriculture grant specialist, david.weinand@state.mn.us or call 651-201-6646.
MDA is also planning to host informational meetings on the 2011 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program in Moorhead and St. Paul early next year. |
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YouTube videos cut consumer
confusion about organic
Organic or natural? When it comes to food labels, there is a difference - although the majority of consumers apparently don't know it. To help cut down on the confusion, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has created a series of six short YouTube videos that explain organic labeling.
According to the National Organic Program (NOP), about two-thirds of American consumers are confused about what organic means. MDA organic specialist Meg Moynihan says while organic labeling can be complex, consumers deserve to understand these labels so they know they're getting what they want - and what they're paying for.
"We created this video series to help consumers read and interpret organic claims," said Moynihan. "Food manufacturers use all kinds of terms to influence buyers. A product labeled "100 percent natural" may still contain additives or preservatives. In contrast, "organic" is a highly regulated claim. These products must meet federal organic requirements and the farms and food companies that produce them must be inspected by a USDA-approved agency."
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AG STATS
Minnesota grows more than 1,000 poinsettias each year. |
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Find Minnesota Grown on Facebook
You can now find Minnesota Grown on Facebook! Visit the page for updates on what's in season, how to use it, where to find it, recipes, tips, and other fun things! Make sure to visit and "like" our page today! |
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Use social media sites to follow MDA
Follow the activities of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture by visiting our social media sites. On YouTube, Twitter and Facebook you'll find tons of information on our marketing, promotional and educational efforts plus more than 75 videos featuring Minnesota Grown, dairy and food inspections and much, much, more!
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