The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries more than $660,000 to support 17 projects aimed at strengthening the state’s specialty crop industry through marketing, education and research.

The funding, provided through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program according to a news release from the agency, is intended to improve the competitiveness of Alabama specialty crop growers and support the continued development of the industry.

“Alabama’s specialty crop industry, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts and nursery crops, has experienced tremendous growth during my time as Commissioner. We are proud of the progress these programs have made and the positive impact they continue to have on our farmers and communities,” said Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate in the release. “ADAI reamins committed to helping farmers increase production, expand markets, and grow their businesses. I encourage eligible applicants to take advantage of these valuable opportunities to strengthen specialty crop operations and contribute to the continued growth of Alabama agriculture.”

Alabama’s award is part of $86.6 million in noncompetitive fiscal year 2026 funding distributed through the program to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

The 17 Alabama projects will address a range of industry needs, including farm infrastructure, pest management, crop research, postharvest storage, consumer education and market development.

THE FUNDED PROJECTS INCLUDE:

Operation Grow: Expanding Infrastructure and Peer Support for Beginning Veteran Farmers

Operation Grow will expand training, equipment access and peer support for beginning veteran farmers. The initiative will use hands-on learning, Extension support and coordinated statewide outreach to help participants increase specialty crop production.

Investigating Alternatives to Amitraz for Improved Honey Bee Management

The project will focus on improving honey bee health in Alabama through field studies and educational events. The work will promote science-based management decisions for beekeepers addressing Varroa mites.

CoolBot: A Simple Cooling Technology to Improve Shelf-Life of Alabama Vegetables

Researchers will evaluate CoolBot technology as an affordable postharvest cooling option for Alabama specialty crops, specifically collards, okra, sweet corn and southern peas. The project will assess the technology’s potential to extend the shelf life of these vegetables.

AI Enabled Smart Inventory Tools for Alabama Nursery Growers

Auburn University will develop practical artificial intelligence tools to automate nursery inventory. The technology is intended to help growers reduce labor, improve plant counts and make better production decisions.

Marketing and Promotion Campaign for Alabama Watermelons

The Gulf Coast Watermelon Association will provide Alabama watermelon producers with educational materials focused on improving production. The association will also launch a comprehensive marketing and promotion campaign to strengthen the competitiveness of watermelon growers.

Selecting Profitable Thornless Blackberry Cultivars for the Gulf Coast

Researchers will evaluate new thornless blackberry cultivars to determine which varieties perform best under the Gulf Coast’s low-chill requirements and hot, humid conditions. The findings could help growers identify profitable options suited to the region’s climate.

Validating New Tools for Bacterial Spot Control and Peach Orchard Health

The project will help peach growers transition from harsh copper sprays to environmentally friendly biological controls described as “good viruses.” The approach aims to prevent disease while protecting tree health and maintaining the large fruit size demanded by the market.

Securing Alabama's Strawberry Future with Biochar Innovation to Optimize Soil Moisture, Nutrient Retention and Crop Health

Researchers will test biochar as a natural soil amendment for strawberry production. The project will examine its potential to improve water and nutrient management, create a healthier root environment, prevent disease and reduce chemical use.

Evaluating Tea as a New Specialty Crop for Alabama

A three-year, multi-location field trial will evaluate the production potential of tea, or Camellia sinensis, in Alabama. Results will be shared with growers and potential tea processors through Extension outreach to help determine whether the crop offers a viable opportunity for the state’s agricultural industry.

Expanding the Alabama Honey Festival to Strengthen Alabama Specialty Crop Producer

The project will expand the Alabama Honey Festival’s role in increasing statewide market access for Alabama honey producers. It will also promote consumer education and strengthen the competitiveness of the honey industry.

Exploring New Storage Methods to Extend the Shelf-Life of Alabama Small Fruits

Researchers will investigate improved storage technologies for small fruits to help growers extend marketing windows, reduce product losses and reach higher-value markets.

Evaluation of Drip-Applied Preemergence Herbicides in Plasticulture Strawberry Production in Alabama

The project will investigate drip-applied preemergence herbicides to control broadleaf weeds in plasticulture strawberry production. The research aims to reduce the need for manual weed removal and associated labor.

Strategies for Monitoring and Management Thrips and TSWV in Tomatoes

Researchers will evaluate sustainable integrated pest management strategies to address thrips and tomato spotted wilt virus, also known as TSWV, in Alabama tomato production. The project aims to increase production through improved pest monitoring, evaluation of host plant resistance and timely, low-risk control measures.

Connecting Growers and Consumers: Advancing Alabama’s Specialty Crop Industry

The initiative will provide Alabama producers with research-based training and resources through regional grower meetings and annual conferences. It will also seek to increase consumer awareness of specialty crops through product sampling and recipe distribution at events.

Gardens 2 Afterschool: Expanding Specialty Crop Education with Extended School Day Programming

The project will pilot an afterschool garden education program at four elementary schools in Tuscaloosa County. The initiative aims to increase awareness of specialty crops and encourage consumption among students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Cultivar Screening and Post-harvest Interventions to Improve Berry Production, Shelf-life and Safety

Researchers will evaluate berry cultivars for adaptability and investigate postharvest microbial control measures to improve yields, extend shelf life and enhance food safety. Experimental findings will be shared with the public through professional platforms.

Improving Pecan Production in Alabama with Educational Conferences and Farm Tours

The project will help deliver current, research-based information on pecan production practices, pest management and marketing. Annual conference presentations and farm tours will provide educational opportunities for Alabama pecan growers.

Together, the projects are intended to strengthen Alabama’s specialty crop industry by supporting producers, advancing research, improving production practices and expanding opportunities to reach consumers and new markets.