New Mexico Launches Seven Specialty-Crop Projects with More Than $600K in Funding Through 2028

ALBUQUERQUE — New Mexico Department of Agriculture launches seven specialty-crop initiatives

The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is rolling out seven projects this fall to strengthen the state's specialty-crop sector. Backed by the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, the initiatives will receive more than $600,000 in funding that will run through 2028 to support research, education and market development across the state.

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Project descriptions

• Apple Revitalization for New Mexico — Advances production practices and supports growers to strengthen the state's apple industry.
• Path to Plate: Enhancing Local Food Supply Chain Efficiency in New Mexico — Improves market access and reduces logistical barriers for specialty-crop growers and producers.
• New Mexico Grown Value-Added Foods Pilot Rollout — Expands markets for local products through processing, packaging and product-development innovations.
• Quality Assessment of Northern New Mexico Lavender Cultivars’ Essential Oils — Evaluates oil quality traits to bolster the lavender sector and inform growers and processors.
• Enhancing Awareness of the Benefits of Specialty Crops for Rural New Mexico Families, Farmers, and Youth — Drives education and outreach to increase consumption and understanding of specialty crops in rural communities.
• Sembrando Salud: Promoting Health through Small-Scale Production of Specialty Vegetables and Culinary/Medicinal Herbs — Integrates health promotion and food-security goals by supporting small-scale production and community nutrition initiatives.
• New Mexico Wine Grape Awareness & Interaction — Promotes consumer engagement and raises awareness of the state’s wine-grape industry and its economic potential.

The grant program targets practical improvements — from on-farm production techniques and quality assessment to processing innovation and consumer outreach. For more information and project details, visit the New Mexico Department of Agriculture website.