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Senator Dan Laughlin announced that four Erie County agricultural projects will receive a combined $288,170 through Pennsylvania\u2019s Agricultural Innovation Grant Program, supporting new technologies designed to improve efficiency, increase production and reduce waste.<\/p>\n
The funding will support projects across a variety of agricultural sectors, highlighting the diversity and innovation of Erie County\u2019s farming community.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The awards were made through the second round of Pennsylvania\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n