How NIFA’s Specialty Crop Research Initiative Supports the Future of Tree Nuts
The chestnut industry in the United States is gaining momentum. With the right support, it has the potential to thrive. In a recent episode of the Branching Out: Growing Together podcast, Melanie Jones spoke with Jessica Shade, National Program Leader at the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Jessica offered valuable insights into USDA chestnut funding opportunities and how growers can tap into these resources through the Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI).
What is NIFA and How Does SCRI Help Growers?
NIFA supports the future of agriculture by investing in science, research, and education. One of its key programs is the Specialty Crop Research Initiative, which provides funding to help growers tackle real-world challenges. Unlike generic research grants, SCRI is designed to:
- Solve specific problems that growers identify
- Boost innovation across production, distribution, and food safety
- Strengthen collaboration between farmers and researchers
As Jessica explained, the SCRI ensures that grower input directly influences the direction of the research. This focus makes the outcomes practical and impactful.
Why Chestnuts Are Ready for U.S. Expansion
Although chestnuts have a long history in global agriculture, their U.S. market is still emerging. However, interest is growing rapidly among both consumers and farmers. Jessica noted that chestnuts are now more visible in grocery stores and specialty markets. Meanwhile, many domestic growers are working to meet this demand—but imported chestnuts still dominate the shelves.
Fortunately, programs like SCRI can help reverse that trend. By supporting grower-led research and improving competitiveness, the USDA is paving the way for more U.S.-grown chestnuts to reach consumers.
USDA Chestnut Funding: Three Key Grant Types
For those interested in USDA chestnut funding through SCRI, Jessica outlined three options:
- Coordinated Agricultural Projects (CAPs)
These large, multi-partner efforts address complex issues.
Funding: Up to $2 million annually for five years. - Standard Research and Extension Projects (SREPs)
These smaller grants focus on specific, focused goals.
Funding: Up to $1 million annually for five years. - Planning Projects
These short-term grants help applicants prepare strong CAP or SREP proposals.
Funding: Up to $50,000 for one year.
How Growers Can Get Involved
Growers don’t need to be researchers to contribute. In fact, their involvement is essential. Jessica encouraged growers to:
- Submit proposals alongside researchers to address field-specific challenges.
- Serve as reviewers to ensure projects reflect real-world needs.
- Explore funded projects on the USDA Data Gateway to find inspiration or collaborators.
“As a grower, your voice matters,” Jessica emphasized. “You bring valuable expertise to the table.”
Examples of Specialty Crop Success
While SCRI hasn’t yet heavily funded chestnut-specific projects, its success in supporting other tree nuts is promising. For example:
- Developing climate-resilient pecan varieties
- Improving pest management in walnuts and hazelnuts
- Designing more productive pistachio orchards
Additionally, other USDA programs have supported chestnut research in breeding and propagation. These early efforts lay the groundwork for larger, more targeted chestnut initiatives.
Let’s Grow the Chestnut Industry Together
Jessica left us with a powerful message: “The challenges we face in agriculture are bigger than ever—but they’re also opportunities.” By connecting with NIFA and leveraging USDA chestnut funding, growers can take an active role in shaping the future.
If you’re a farmer, researcher, or ag-tech innovator, now is the time to engage. Explore grant opportunities, share your knowledge, and build partnerships that move the industry forward.
🔗 Explore Further:
- SCRI Program Details: Search “SCRI NIFA” online
- USDA Data Gateway: gateway.nifa.usda.gov
- Contact: [email protected]
- Become a Reviewer: Sign up via PRS NIFA
🎧 Listen to this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together on YouTube, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.
🌱 Discover more tools and insights at unitedchestnuts.com/resources
Let’s grow a stronger, more resilient chestnut community—together.