By Scout Nelson
North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has announced that the Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC) has awarded $341,300 in funding to support three ag-related projects. These awards were approved during APUC’s quarterly meeting held on May 29 in Minot.
APUC, a program under the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, helps fund research and development efforts to find new and expanded uses for agricultural products. The program is designed to strengthen rural communities and improve agriculture by supporting innovation in areas like marketing, technology, diversification, and agritourism.
The approved projects include:
- A $200,000 grant for further development of an autonomous truck platoon program to enhance sugar beet harvesting efficiency.
- A $75,000 grant to support technology development for real-time plant tissue analysis using the LENS™ (Leaf Evaluated Nutrient System) platform.
- A $66,300 grant to study the feasibility of building an industrial fertilizer production facility that uses lignite coal.
“These projects reflect the importance of continued investment in ag innovation to help keep our rural economy strong,” said Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring.
APUC will host its next grant hearing on July 23–24, 2025, in Medora. Those wishing to apply must submit their applications by July 1, 2025.
For more details on how to apply or to learn about the program, visit the official website at www.ndda.nd.gov/apuc.
These efforts aim to improve farming operations, reduce environmental impact, and drive growth through technology and research.
Photo Credit:north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy