Press Release Provided by the California Department of Food and Agriculture
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is now accepting grant applications for its Biologically Integrated Farming Systems (BIFS) Program and its Proactive Integrated Pest Management (Proactive IPM) Solutions Program, administered by the Office of Pesticide Consultation and Analysis (OPCA). OPCA is housed under the CDFA Office of Environmental Farming and Innovation.
The goal of the BIFS grant program is to fund on-farm demonstration and evaluation of innovative biologically based farming systems that employ integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. CDFA is responsible for supporting agricultural production in California by fostering innovative, efficient, and scientifically sound practices. OPCA received a one-time appropriation of $2 million for BIFS as part of the 2021-2022 budget.
Applications for the BIFS are due by 5 PM PST, December 6, 2021. Detailed information on the BIGS program, including the application process and requirements, is available at CDFA.CA.gov/OEFI/OPCA/BIFS.html.
The goal of the Proactive IPM is to anticipate exotic pests likely to arrive in California and to identify and test IPM strategies which can then be quickly implemented if the pests are detected. CDFA is responsible for preventing and mitigating invasive pests to protect is agricultural crops. Techniques resulting from this proactive approach will allow for rapid deployment of management plans and less pesticide use.
Applications are due at 5 PM PST, December 6, 2021. Detailed information on the Proactive IPM Solutions Program, including the application process and application requirements, is available at CDFA.CA.gov/OEFI/OPCA/Proactive-IPM.html.
OPCA received a one-time appropriation of $1 million for Proactive IPM Solutions as part of the 2021-2022 budget.
