Michigan residents receive sustainable agriculture grant
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EmailMichigan Farmers and community leaders receive grants for new ideas.
Five Michigan residents have recently been selected to receive grants from the North Central Region Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (NCR-SARE) for their projects. Each grant was awarded as part of NCR-SARE's 2026 Farmer Rancher Grant Program, a competitive grant program for farmers and ranchers who want to explore sustainable solutions to problems through on-farm research, demonstration and education projects.
The focus for each of the NCR-SARE grant programs is on research and education. Funding considerations are based on how well the applicant presents the problem being addressed, the project's relevance to sustainable agriculture in the 12-state North Central region, and how well it aligns with NCR-SARE's goals, among other factors specific to each grant program.
NCR-SARE's Administrative Council (AC) members decide which projects will receive SARE funds. The AC includes a mix of agricultural stakeholders in the region. Council members hail from regional farms, ranches, the Cooperative Extension Service, universities, federal agencies and nonprofits.
Extending the growing season in Detroit
Erin Cole of Nurturing Our Seeds in Detroit received a $15,000 grant for a project called Farming Beyond Frost. The program will teach farmers practical ways to grow food during the winter months. Through hands-on training and planning tools, participants will learn techniques to extend the growing season, increase crop production and support a more reliable year-round food supply in Detroit.
Reducing waste through hydroponics
In Grand Rapids, Danelle Owens of Grown Hydroponic Farms was awarded $13,902. Her project will create a no-waste system that turns hydroponically grown microgreens into freeze-dried spice blends. By finding new uses for extra crops, the project aims to reduce waste, extend shelf life and create new income opportunities for small farms.
Growing healthy chestnut trees
Abby Johnson of Ox Heights in Rogers City received a $6,375 grant to study the best ways to establish chestnut trees from seed. The project will compare four different planting methods and measure the labor and materials needed for each approach. The results could help growers choose effective and affordable ways to establish chestnut orchards.
Supporting healthier honey bee colonies
James Lee of the Northern Queen Initiative in Romulus was awarded $29,154 for a project focused on honey bee health. The study will test several methods for identifying bee colonies that are naturally resistant to mites, one of the biggest threats to honey bees. The project could help small-scale beekeepers improve breeding decisions and support stronger, healthier bee populations.
Teaching Composting and Soil Health
Takunia Collins of Willow Run Acres in Ypsilanti received a $12,021 grant to expand compost education and regenerative gardening efforts. The project will help young people earn Junior Compost Certificates while teaching families, schools and community gardeners about healthy soils and sustainable food production. The work will also increase opportunities for community members to learn practical gardening skills.
These projects show how Michigan farmers and community leaders are finding creative ways to solve challenges, share knowledge and strengthen local agriculture. From winter food production and waste reduction to honey bee health and soil education, each project has the potential to benefit communities across the state.
By supporting innovative ideas and hands-on learning, NCR-SARE continues to help farmers and educators build a more sustainable future for agriculture in Michigan and throughout the North Central region.
Since 1988, the SARE program has helped advance farming systems that improve profitability, stewardship and quality of life through a nationwide research and education grants program. The program, part of USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, funds projects and conducts outreach designed to bring sustainable innovations to agricultural systems.
Some NCR-SARE grant timelines have changed for the upcoming funding cycle. Join NCR-SARE's mailing list (https://northcentral.sare.org/about/join-our-mailing-list/) to receive release notifications directly in your inbox.
