Agriculture in Alaska has seen growth and increased interest in recent years, however, growers fear proposed cuts outlined in Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s budget could curb business in the industry.
Last Wednesday, the House Department of Natural Resources Subcommittee voted down around 30 cuts to programs and institutions that support the agricultural industry, including the Alaska Grown program and a number of inspectors. Roughly, $1.2 million is proposed to be cut from the Division of Agriculture. However, there are plenty of opportunities for the cuts to find their way back into the budget as the various committees take their turn working on the proposed budget, Rep. Geran Tarr, D-Anchorage, said.
“We’re hearing from Alaskans from all over the state about how important this is,” Tarr said. “There has been so much growth in agriculture and so much positive momentum.”
The governor’s proposed budget would reduce funding to the state Division of Agriculture. The state agricultural veterinarian and the Agriculture Revolving Loan Program are on the chopping block as well.