Increasing specialty crop production by improved land cultivation practices.
DOA is administering this project under the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program to assist farmers with land cultivation and preparation techniques for crop farming. The American Samoa Department of Agriculture (ASDOA) has simplified the process for farmers to acquire an invoice from local vendors equipped with the necessary machinery and tools to conduct land cultivation practices for their crop farms.
ASDOA processes requests by submitting all necessary documentation to the USDA-Agricultural Marketing Services Specialty Crops Federal Grantors for their review and approval of payment for services rendered. The payment amount is determined based on a thorough review conducted by the Federal Grantors. This ensures accountability and proper allocation of resources.
To date, there have been multiple requests submitted for the Federal Grantors’ approval of payments for farmers who requested services through this ASDOA program. Payments are made directly to the local vendors rather than the farmers, ensuring transparency and efficient fund disbursement. ASDOA has been instrumental in guiding farmers through the process, providing technical assistance, and ensuring compliance with program requirements.
Farmers are directed to follow proper channels, which include acquiring vendor invoices, submitting detailed documentation, and providing before-and-after pictures of the land needing preparation or cultivation. This program has significantly contributed to improving land productivity and supporting the farming community in American Samoa.