TN.gov Newsroom

Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture today announced the allocation of more than $572,000 to help five area food banks with the cost of providing food to the needy. The funds were provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

“Food banks can be a real a lifeline to some of our state’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. “These Recovery Act funds will help put food on the table for Tennesseans in need.”

“Local food banks have seen the demand for their services increase due to the current economic situation. We’re glad these Recovery Act funds will be able to help cover some of the cost of providing food assistance to those who really need it in communities across Tennessee,” said state Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens.

NASHVILLE - “Tennessee’s ‘fun farms’ are in their glory throughout October,” says Pamela Bartholomew, Tennessee Department of Agriculture. “You can get everything you need for fall—including a good time-- in one place by purchasing fall décor and produce straight from a local farm.”

Farms that offer all sorts of autumn décor, from mums and pumpkins to corn stalks, gourds, Indian corn and straw bales dot the state. These farms often offer a variety of traditional farm fun right up through Halloween, as well. Many offer wagon rides, pick-your-own pumpkin patches, corn mazes, farm animal zoos, storytelling and musical evenings and all sorts of outdoor activities.

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry and the state Fire Marshal’s Office are observing National Fire Prevention Week starting October 4, by reminding homeowners to follow simple safety practices to prevent forest fires. The official start of forest fire season in Tennessee is October 15.

“Despite the recent wet weather experienced in many parts of the state, fires are still a real threat,” said state forester Steve Scott. “It is still important that citizens call for a burning permit and follow outdoor burning safety recommendations.”

NASHVILLE – Hundreds of visitors will head for Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville on Oct. 17 and 18 for the 17th Annual Music & Molasses Arts & Crafts Festival.

"This is a huge weekend of family fun," said Anne Dale, director of the Tennessee Agricultural Museum. “We will have music, horse-drawn wagon rides, molasses making and lots of great food. Tennessee crafts and unique items will also be available for purchase.” 

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture recently awarded more than $252,000 in Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program forestry grants. The grants will assist cities and towns in maintaining and increasing their tree resource.

“Our urban forests are an important resource and, managed properly, can help reduce heat buildup, control storm water and improve the quality of life in our urban environment,” said state Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens. “This program is making a difference by helping our cities and communities maximize the benefit of this vital and often underutilized resource.”