NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) has awarded $567,424 to support 11 projects through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). These investments will enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops across the state by funding research, marketing, and educational initiatives that benefit Tennessee farmers, producers, and consumers.

“Tennessee’s specialty crops—from strawberries and hops to lavender and mushrooms—are vital to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said. “We are proud to support innovative projects that address today’s challenges and open new opportunities for our farmers and agribusinesses.”

Specialty crops are defined as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops, including floriculture. The program is administered by TDA’s Business Development Division and is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Awardees and their projects are as follows.

Serenity Springs Lavender Farm – hosting a Northeast Tennessee Farm Trail Weekend to highlight lavender farming and agritourism

Tennessee State University – advancing pest and crop management through projects on cucurbits, shiitake mushrooms, woody crops, Japanese beetle control, and AI-driven precision agriculture

University of Memphis – using aerial technology to detect fruit orchard diseases early in West Tennessee

University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture – combating spotted lanternfly, expanding hop and strawberry production and marketing, and creating a mobile-friendly Southeastern Vegetable Crop Handbook

Together, these projects represent nine research initiatives, one education and outreach project, and one marketing project, all designed to improve the competitiveness and long-term success of Tennessee’s specialty crop industry.

For more information about the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program and other business development opportunities, visit www.tn.gov/agriculture/businesses/business-development.html.