Kansas Department of Agriculture is accepting applications for the 2016 Specialty Crop Block Grant program.

Funds for the programs are awarded to the agency by the U.S. Department of Agricultural Marketing Service. Kansas is expected to receive $284,000 for 2016.

The purpose of the program is to enhance competitiveness of specialty crops, such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. May 16 and can be found by visiting the website at bit.ly/KDAspecialtycropgrant.