Tobacco Trust money flows to WNC
The N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission has awarded more than $6.1 million in 30 grants, including more than $400,000 targeted toward the western counties.
Grants serving the entire western region include $100,000 to the Center for Agricultural and Food Entrepreneurship for the WNC FoodWorks Sustainability Plan, $80,000 to WNC Communities to refurbish the WNC Regional Livestock Center and $83,250 to the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project to support small farm viability. Additionally, a $150,000 grant awarded to the Haywood County Consolidated School System will support an outdoor agricultural classroom.
Other grants went to projects serving areas outside the western region, though many will serve the entire state. These projects range from soil health to Christmas tree seed to beekeeping.
The N.C. General Assembly created the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission in 2000 to lessen the financial impact on farmers and tobacco-related businesses caused by the sharp decline of tobacco in the agricultural economy. The commission’s original funding was established through tobacco industry annual payments as a result of the Master Settlement Agreement. Its current funding comes from a set appropriation of funds.
For a list of grant recipients, visit tobaccotrustfund.org.
