Written By Guest Blogger
SACRAMENTO, August 29, 2022 u2013 The California Department of Agriculture (CDFA) is now accepting grant applications for its Biologically Integrated Farming Systems (BIFS) Program and its Proactive Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Solutions Program, both administered by the agencyu2019s Office of Pesticide Consultation and Analysis (OPCA).
The goal of the BIFS program is to fund on-farm demonstration and evaluation of innovative, biologically based farming systems that employ integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. CDFA is responsible for supporting agricultural production in California by fostering innovative, efficient, and scientifically sound practices.
OPCA received a one-time appropriation of $2 million for BIFS as part of the 2022u20132023 budget. Applications for funding are due by 5 p.m. PT, October 31, 2022. Detailed information on the BIFS program, including the application process and requirements, is available at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/opca/bifs.html.
The goal of the Proactive IPM Solutions Program is to anticipate exotic pests likely to arrive in California and to identify and test IPM strategies that can be quickly implemented if the pests are detected. CDFA is responsible for preventing and mitigating invasive pests to protect agricultural crops. Techniques resulting from these practices allow for rapid management of plans and less pesticide use.
OPCA received a one-time appropriation of $1 million for Proactive IPM as part of the 2022u20132023 budget. Applications are due at 5 p.m. PT, October 31, 2022. Detailed program information, including the application process and requirements, is available at u202fhttps://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/opca/proactive-ipm.html.
A public information workshop will provide details on the BIFS and Proactive IPM Solutions grant programs. It will be held via Zoom on Monday, September 12, 2022, from 10 to 11 a.m. PT. Register at: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpce6sqzksHtIiL_s-nnUJ9PfnuAyi81kH.
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This article was reprinted from a CDFA News Release published August 29, 2022, by Steve Lyle, Director of Public Affairs, Officeofpublicaffairs@cdfa.ca.gov.