"Like other small businesses throughout the state, these operations make important contributions to their local economies," Agriculture Director Tom Jennings said. "We're appreciative of this assistance because it will help preserve jobs on farms whose existence is threatened by exorbitant feed costs."
The federal government has authorized $20 million to provide assistance to eligible aquaculture producers under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of Aug. 24, 1935. Illinois fish farmers are eligible if their 2009 feed costs were at least 25 percent of their total operating expenses and if their feed costs are 25 percent above the average cost of feed in the state from 2003-2007.
Applications will be mailed directly to aquaculture producers who held valid aquaculture permits from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources during calendar year 2010. Program details are available on the Illinois Department of Agriculture's website at www.agr.state.il.us or by calling (217) 524-9129.
Assitance Available To Illiinois Fish Farmers
US - Illinois fish farmers can qualify for nearly $80,000 in business assistance funds under a federal program being administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA).
