2011 is here and what better way to start the new year than with a new grant program.  The Indiana Family of Farmers (IFOF) wants to make learning about agriculture easier and even more interesting through a new grant program for local communities.


Grants of up to $2000 will be made available to improve educational agriculture-related events around Indiana. The funds, made possible through the IFOF Ag Resource Committee, may be used by local event organizers to increase participation in educational or outreach events focused on food and fiber, like Ag Day celebrations. Grant applicants may also request monies to make capital improvements (like buying demonstration equipment) or safety upgrades (such as purchasing hand-washing stations).

To be eligible, at least one representative of the grant-requesting organization must attend an IFOF presentation: Tips for Success: Telling the story of Agriculture Through Educational Events. These presentations take place January – April as part of the following events:
• Fort Wayne Farm Show – January 19th in Fort Wayne
• Purdue Extension’s Women in Agriculture conference – February 24th in Jeffersonville
• IN Farm Bureau’s Spring Conference – March 12th – Indianapolis
• Adobe Connect Meeting at regional sites throughout the state – Dates and locations TBA

Applications and detailed guidance may be found online Here.  The deadline to apply is June 10, 2011.

Indiana’s Family of Farmers also has a blog that is definitely worth checking out.  Their are lots of recipes, tips and insights on agriculture in the state.

Sunday, August 29th marks the inaugural Dig-IN event.  From noon till 6 pm at Military Park on the White River State Park grounds cconsumers will have an opportunity to experience the taste of Indiana grown products.  This event will showcase high quality, locally produced Indiana foods and remind consumers what a bounty Indiana farmers/producers have to offer.   

Dig-IN will feature many of the state's best chefs preparing unique dishes from these locally grown foods and attendees will be able to sample them.  Speakers will be on had to provide educational information on an array of food and food related topics.  Also on hand to sample will be Indiana made wines and beers, along with music by Jascha, Kate LaMont and Jookabox.

This event will be a feast for the senses and show just how great Indiana agriculture taste!

For more information visit Dig-IN's website http://www.digindiana.org/