On Monday, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, ADAI, awarded $1.3 million to two Alabama farms through ADAI’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure, RFSI, program. With the USDA RFSI funds, Boozer Farms and J. Durbin Farms will be able to continue their efforts to strengthen Alabama’s local food supply and reduce waste in the state’s agricultural system, ADAI shared.
The investment comes amidst rising food insecurity in the U.S., resulting from increased grocery costs and the Trump administration’s slashing of federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP, which provides millions of Americans with critical food assistance.
Through the program, Boozer Farms received around $719,000, and J. Durbin Farms was awarded around $644,000. Both farms intend to use the funds to reduce waste and promote sustainability in Alabama agriculture. In particular, the farms plan to invest in infrastructure improvements and new processing methods to turn “Section 2” fruits–produce that may not meet cosmetic standards but remains good for use–into value-added products.
“This initiative not only prevents waste but also strengthens the resilience and sustainability of Alabama’s farming community,” ADAI stated, celebrating the initiative.
ADAI Commissioner Rick Pate also touted the farms’ initiative as evidence of the RFSI program’s success in bolstering innovation for Alabama agriculture.
“The RFSI program is a game-changer for Alabama agriculture. It’s providing our farmers the tools they need to innovate, reduce waste and add value to their products, especially in rural communities,” said Commissioner Pate. “Investing in local infrastructure strengthens our food supply chain, while also helping Alabama farmers build a more sustainable and profitable future.”
Boozer Farms is located in Thorsby, Ala. and is known for growing a wide variety of high-quality fruits and vegetables, including peaches, strawberries and peppers. The farm emphasizes sustainable practices and community involvement, offering fresh, locally grown produce through farmers markets and Community Supported Agriculture programs.
J. Durbin Farms is located in Clanton, Ala. and is best known for growing fresh Chilton County peaches which are sold at local retail stores. The farm also grows strawberries which locals can pick themselves and hosts farm tours for local schools in the spring.
Both farms are family-owned and will use the funds awarded through the RSFI program to continue creating value-added products like jams, jellies and sauces, in addition to their fresh produce offerings.
ADAI encourages anyone who is interested in learning more about the RSFI program to visit their website or email [email protected].
