Eight oaks farm grants for veterans

By Blake Jackson

Eight Oaks Farm Distillery, in collaboration with the PA Veteran Farming Network, is offering four $1,000 grants for honorably discharged veterans farming in Pennsylvania. These grants aim to reimburse out-of-pocket expenses incurred during the installation of conservation best management projects through county or federal programs. Applicants must have completed an Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) or Pennsylvania’s Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP) project on their farm between May 1, 2023, and January 31, 2024, with out-of-pocket expenses of at least $1,000.

The application period opens on February 12, 2024, at 9 am, and will be conducted online. The grants are a reimbursement program, providing support to veteran farmers for their commitment to sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Details can be found at pavetfarms.org/2024-eight-oaks-grant.pavetfarms.org/2024-eight-oaks-grant.

Chad Butters, Army veteran and Founder/CEO of Eight Oaks Farm Distillery, emphasized the importance of supporting beginning farmers who often face financial challenges on their farming journey. The grants are aimed at helping meet the demand for farming expenses, providing a boost to Pennsylvania veterans starting or continuing their farming operations.

Eight Oaks Farm Distillery, a Veteran-Owned, Family-Run craft distillery in Pennsylvania, has a mission to establish a well-balanced ecosystem using holistic and regenerative farming techniques. Proceeds from their Veterans Cut Bottled-in-Bond Whiskey support the grant opportunity, showcasing their commitment to the farming community. Learn more at eightoaksdistillery.com.

The PA Veteran Farming Network, a statewide nonprofit organization, plays a vital role in connecting veterans in agriculture with each other and service providers. The network aims to help veterans and their spouses in farming grow successful and sustainable farms and agribusinesses.

This funding opportunity reflects the commitment of Eight Oaks Farm Distillery, the PA Veteran Farming Network, and the broader community to support veteran farmers, promote sustainable practices, and contribute to the success of agricultural ventures in Pennsylvania. Veterans can apply for these grants starting on February 12, with the application period remaining open until funds are expended. Learn more at pavetfarms.org/.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski