U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Chairwoman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Gary Peters (D-MI), today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will award $38,460,630 to support rural communities across Michigan
“My hometown of Clare was a great place to grow up. I secured this funding for families in Clare and Michigan’s other small towns so they have the tools to run their businesses and farms,” said Senator Stabenow. “Additionally, when we invest in rural America, we aren’t just investing in the families who live there. This money will help our entire state succeed.
“Investing in our rural communities ensures that every Michigander has the opportunity to succeed,” said Senator Peters. “We worked hard to secure this funding, which will expand broadband service, support climate-smart agriculture and strengthen water infrastructure in rural communities across Michigan.”
USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program will award 46 Michigan local businesses with $8,158,581 in grants.
These funds will help farmers, producers, and rural business owners make energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy investments to lower energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resiliency of their operations. A list of all the recipients can be found here.
The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians will receive $3,742,293 to expand high-speed, affordable internet access to Chippewa Country residents. These funds were made possible by the USDA’s Rural Development Broadband ReConnect Program.
The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians will receive $20,359,756 to preserve and protect fisheries and wildlife populations in northwest lower Michigan. Newtrient LLC will receive $6,200,000 to help dairy farmers reduce their methane production. These funds are made possible by USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program.
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