Specialty Crop Grants

Specialty crops in Colorado are getting a little help to boost competitiveness in the marketplace.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crops Program has awarded 12 grants totalling more than $600,000.

Glenda Mostek with Department says there is less funding aid with these crops than with traditional commodity crops.

Mostek says these grants are available to associations, non profits and universities.

Aronia berries are like ground cherries are bitter and full of anti oxidants.

Grant money will also be used to increase farm to school produce, create an apprenticeship program and incubator farm, and educate students about specialty crops.