Thursday, September 29th 2016
The Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Council (AFREC) is requesting proposals for Minnesota-focused fertilizer research and outreach projects. Currently $1.1 million in grants is available for research, education and technology transfer projects. AFREC is a farmer and industry-led program designed to fund research and education on agricultural fertility that is environmentally and economically sound. AFREC was established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2008 and receives funding through a $0.40 per ton fee on fertilizer sales. Additional information about AFREC and its past and currently funded projects is available at: http://mnsoilfertility.com/. Copies of the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the funding can be obtained by sending a written e mail request to Bruce Montgomery, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, at bruce.montgomery@state.mn.us. Completed proposals must be received per RFP guidelines by 3pm on December 2nd. There are approximately 17 on-going AFREC projects that will be given priority for continued funding this funding cycle. However, approximately 25%-35% of the funding will be available for new grants. A high priority for newly funded activities will focus on promoting various levels of on-farm demonstrations. AFREC’s goal is to have projects selected and grants executed prior to the 2017 cropping season.