Senator Dan Laughlin announced that four Erie County agricultural projects will receive a combined $288,170 through Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, supporting new technologies designed to improve efficiency, increase production and reduce waste.
The funding will support projects across a variety of agricultural sectors, highlighting the diversity and innovation of Erie County’s farming community.
Among the recipients is INTAG Systems, which was awarded $129,800 to develop a vermiculture reactor that processes organic waste through an indoor, continuous worm-composting system. The project aims to create a more sustainable approach to managing organic materials while producing valuable compost products.
Mazza Vineyards will receive $129,797 to install an enhanced grape-filtering system. The new technology is expected to improve processing efficiency and product quality, helping the longtime Erie County winery strengthen its operations.
In Fairview Township, Fairview Evergreen Nurseries was awarded $18,073 to implement a drone-based spraying system. The technology will allow for more precise application methods, improving efficiency while potentially reducing waste and input costs.
Meanwhile, Willow Grove Heritage Lab will receive $10,500 to develop plans for integrating advanced technology into farm services, laying the groundwork for future innovation and expanded agricultural capabilities.
The awards were made through the second round of Pennsylvania’s Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, the first initiative of its kind in the nation. Statewide, the program is providing $9.7 million to support 97 projects, while leveraging an additional $4.8 million in private investment.
The Agricultural Innovation Grant Program supports projects that advance agricultural profitability, improve efficiency and production, protect soil and water resources, and promote the development of clean, renewable energy solutions.
More information about the Agricultural Innovation Grant Program is available through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture website.