U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development today announced a $250,000 Value Added Producer Grant for Kelly Turkeys USA, a free-range turkey farm in Crozet.
Kelly Turkeys USA produces a unique, high value turkey marketed specifically for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The farm uses a specific breed of turkey, KellyBronze, and employs free-range farming methods and unique finishing processes.
Sam Rikkers, Acting Administrator for USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service, announced today’s grant.
“Through awards like these we are able to help improve products and businesses throughout rural America,” Rikkers said. “It is our goal to ensure these businesses and their employees have the best opportunity to thrive.”
This grant is one of more than 30 USDA Rural Development Value Added Producer Grants obligated in Virginia during fiscal year 2015, totaling more than $3.9 million.
Value Added Producer Grants help agricultural producers enter into value-added activities related to the processing and/or marketing of bio-based products. They help generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities and can create jobs in rural America. Beginning farmers, socially-disadvantaged farmers, small or medium-sized farms and family farms are some of the people and businesses eligible for the grants.
Kelly Turkeys USA grant funds will be used to support expanded production through the hiring of a general manager and seasonal labor, and through the purchase of packaging supplies. Funds will also be used to enhance marketing efforts through development of promotional materials and support of in-person promotional visits.
“The more than $3.9 million in Value Added Producer Grants we’ve awarded in Virginia over the past year has contributed to one of the most vital parts of our economy – agriculture,” said Basil Gooden, Ph.D., Virginia state director, USDA Rural Development. “From breweries and cideries to meat processors and organic producers, these businesses provide recreation, nutrition and employment throughout Virginia.”