HUGHESVILLE, Md.—The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) is offering grants to farms in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George's and St. Mary's counties to aid in the purchase of wine grape vines. These funds are being made available as a continuation of SMADC's Growing Grapes for Wine Program which was established to encourage and support the development of a competitive wine industry in Southern Maryland.
The grant program requires matching funds supplied by the farm owner for the purchase of grape vines of recommended grape varieties compatible with the region. The Grapes for Wine Program is offered together with the University of Maryland Extension which will provide ongoing training and production expertise.
To be eligible an applicant must own or be co-applicant with the owner of at least 5 acres of land currently in agricultural use. Existing grape growers and new growers may apply. Past participants of the Growing Grapes for Wine cost-share program are eligible as well as past recipients of SMADC's Farm Viability Grant Program.
Awards for the spring of 2014 will be contingent upon farms having suitable soils that have already been tested for nematodes. Awards will be made based on satisfactory test results and pending availability of funding. Grant applications are due to SMADC October 21, 2013.
To download the Grant Application and Guidelines, go to
2013_Grape_Grant_Guidelines_and_App.pdf or contact SMADC staff at (301) 274-1922 Ex. 1.