The Oregon Department of Agriculture is accepting proposals for 2013 specialty crop grants.

Approximately $1 million is expected to be available for agriculture associations, producer groups, processors, commodity commissions and other organizations, according to ODA.

The department is requesting three-page concept proposals from applicants describing their projects.

Concept proposals can be submitted online and must be received by Feb. 18 at noon.

Among seven areas ODA has identified as funding priorities are market development, food safety compliance and traceability and on-farm labor needs.

Suggested funding ranges are $25,000 to $100,000.

More information is available by going to the ODA website: http://oregon.gov/ODA .

-- Mitch Lies