Recipients for R.E.A.P. grants announced | Local News [Video]

ROCKLAND — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced grants for 17 Maine farms and small businesses totaling $2.1 million.

The Rural Energy for America Program grants are meant to help agricultural producers and rural small business owners make energy efficiency improvements and investments to lower energy costs, generate new income and strengthen operations.

“Towns across this county thrive and continue to be the economic backbone of America. Maine is one of the key drivers for ensuring small businesses across this country thrive because a vast majority of jobs in this country are in small businesses,” said Cindy Axne, White House Senior Advisor for Rural Engagement, Delivery and Prosperity.

Axne and Maine U.S.D.A. Rural Development and State Director Rhiannon Hampson announced some of this years recipients at CedarWorks Playsets in Rockport.

They were joined by Maine Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, who explained the importance of these investments.

“This means you might be able to …