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TDA has released the 2011 application for the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program. Applications can be submitted June 1-7 and should not be postmarked prior to June 1. Applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis, so producers are encouraged to apply early.

This year’s program offers the same menu of cost share opportunities as last year. This includes the livestock equipment, cattle genetics, hay storage, feed storage, grain storage and producer diversification opportunities. To date, TAEP has provided cost share funds for more than 21,000 projects.

TAEP was established in 2005 and supported by the General Assembly to increase farm income by helping farmers invest in better farming practices and by encouraging diversification and innovation. Through TAEP, farmers can qualify for 35 or 50 percent cost share, ranging from a maximum of $1,200 to $15,000 depending on the project.

Applications are available at most farm agencies including USDA Farm Service Agency, UT Extension and Farm Bureau offices, as well as most farm supply stores. To ensure accuracy, producers are encouraged to work with their local extension agent or local TDA representative when completing the application.

Producers can get important messages and updates on the program by calling 1-800-342-8206. For more information or to download an application, visit www.TN.gov/agriculture/enhancement.

The Tennessee Agriculture Enhancement Program (TAEP) cost share application guides are now available for Tennessee producers to pick up at their local UT Extension offices.

This guide may also be accessed on the web at www.TN.gov/agriculture/enhancement. Administrators of the TAEP are encouraging producers to participate in this competitive grant process. There are no major changes in this year’s program from last year. Producers can increase their chance of application approval by making sure the application is complete and submitted in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the application. Before applications are submitted particular attention should be paid to the eligibility requirements and rules sections. When producers have questions they can call the TAEP information line at 1-800-342-8206. TAEP administrators site incomplete applications and applications lacking the requested details as the main reasons for applications not receiving approval. If applicants plan to complete a master producer program in order to receive a greater percentage cost share they must mark that section on their application to be eligible. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture TAEP program strengthens agriculture in Tennessee by providing cost share funds for long term investments in Tennessee’s livestock and farming operations.