May 21, 2009
**Media Advisory
Director of Agriculture to Visit Aquaculture Farms to Discuss Stimulus Funding
| WHAT: | Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Dr. Jon Hagler is touring two Missouri aquaculture locations to promote the industry and discuss the availability of funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act). On Feb. 17, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced $50 million to aquaculture producers. Gov. Jay Nixon subsequently tasked the Department of Agriculture with identifying producers who are eligible for assistance. Missouri could be eligible for up to $500,000 of those funds. |
| WHEN: |
Friday, May 22, 2009 |
| WHERE: |
Ozark Fisheries Osage Catfisheries |
| WHY: | Missouri’s aquaculture industry contributes over $7 million to the state’s economy. Stimulus funding will help aquaculture producers recover from recent increases in fish feed costs and help sustain operational functions. |
| CONTACT: |
For more information, contact Misti Preston at (573) 751-8596 or Misti.Preston@mda.mo.gov. ** If you plan to cover this event, please email Misti.Preston@mda.mo.gov. |