TALLAHASSEE – Florida aquaculturists will be provided an opportunity to apply for federal stimulus money to offset high feed prices experienced during 2008.
Commissioner Bronson noted that, “Sky-high feed costs in 2008 triggered fish farm closings throughout the Southeast. We are moving these funds to Florida farmers as quickly as we can and we are very appreciative of the opportunity to expedite this federal program.”
The State of Florida was allocated $341,806 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as the state’s portion of $50 million feed stimulus funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. All of the funds will be distributed to qualified applicants on a pro-rata basis, none of the funds will be used for program administration. Florida aquaculture ranks 7th amongst all states with 2005 aquaculture sales of $61.3 million. Principle farming segments include tropical ornamental fish, shellfish, food fish (catfish, tilapia, and hybrid striped bass), reptiles (alligators and turtles), baitfish and gamefish.
Aquaculturists that decide to apply must return completed applications to the Aquaculture Grant Program, 1203 Governor’s Square Boulevard, Suite 501, Tallahassee, Florida 32301-2961 by 5:00 PM on July 24, 2009.