The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) has received a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to expand its agriculture research. The grant is part of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which provides funding for projects that support farmers and ranchers.
UPIKE will receive $332,336.26 from the USDA's $79.2 million grant. The funding will be used to study fungi species that are specific to the environment of coal mines. The goal of the research is to develop sustainable and economically impactful ways to utilize existing mining infrastructure to grow high-value crops.
Assistant Professor of Biology Byron Meade is leading the research project. He says that he is excited about the opportunity to benefit local communities.
Meade hopes that the grant will help them find sustainable and economically viable ways to use existing mining infrastructure to grow high-value crops.
Meade also says that students will have the opportunity to interact with the research directly. This will give them valuable experience in agriculture research and help them to develop skills that they can use in their future careers.
The UPIKE agriculture research project is a great example of how universities can work with the government and private sector to support the local economy. The research has the potential to create new jobs and businesses in the Appalachian region.
Photo Credit: University of Pike
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy