Thu Sep 12 21:56:00 UTC 2024: ## California Offers $1.9 Million in Grants to Promote Sustainable Pest Management in Agriculture

**SACRAMENTO, CA** – The California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) is offering $1.9 million in grants to support integrated pest management (IPM) projects that aim to transition California agriculture towards more sustainable practices.

The funding is available through DPR’s 2025 Research and Alliance Grants programs, which prioritize projects addressing crucial areas such as:

* **IPM resources for underserved communities and small farms:** This includes developing tailored resources and support to ensure equitable access to IPM knowledge and practices.
* **Reducing the use of high-risk pesticides:** The grants encourage research and implementation of alternative pest management methods to decrease reliance on pesticides with potential health and environmental hazards.
* **IPM solutions near schools and urban areas:** This area focuses on developing and promoting IPM approaches specifically designed for agricultural regions close to sensitive environments.
* **Sustainability pillars:** Projects should align with the Sustainable Pest Management Roadmap, emphasizing human health, social equity, environmental protection, and economic vitality.

DPR Director Julie Henderson stressed the importance of pest management for public health, food production, and infrastructure. “Our grants fund innovative research into a broad range of safe, sustainable pest management alternatives and provide crucial support for their adoption,” she said.

The 2025 Research Grants Program offers up to $500,000 per project for a maximum of three years, supporting the development of new sustainable pest management tools and practices. Applications are due September 19, 2024.

The 2025 Alliance Grants Program provides up to $400,000 per project for a maximum of three years, focusing on promoting and expanding the use of proven and effective IPM systems and practices. Applications are due November 21, 2024.

For more information on the grants and application process, please visit the DPR Grants website.

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