October 15, 2026 By CDHD IATP's AgrAbility grant brings accessibility to Idaho farmers We are proud to announce that our Idaho Assistive Technology Project (IATP) was awarded a four-year AgrAbility grant through the US Department of Agriculture. This funding will facilitate efforts to improve accessibility for farmers with disabilities across Idaho and Montana. Dr Janice Carson, IATP Director, co-wrote the grant with University of Idaho Extension – College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). She will be co-directing with David Callister from CALS. This collaborative project combines assistive technology with agricultural expertise, injury impact assessments and injury prevention. It focuses on providing technical assistance, training, information and other activities that support community-based direct service programs. This includes on-site environmental and assistive technology evaluations for farmers and ranchers with disabilities and their families. It also supports veterans engaged in farming or farm-related occupations as well as veterans pursuing new farming opportunities. "Bringing an AgrAbility grant to Idaho has been on IATP's radar for several years," said Janice. "The IM-ABLE team includes members of the agriculture community through direct work and family farms. This grant is personal for all of us, and we are thrilled to bring these services to Idahoans and Montanans." The scope of work focuses on four areas of emphasis: Education and outreach for agricultural professionals, rehabilitation and health care providers, vocational counselors, and other service providers Network and collaboration to encourage information and resource sharing among farmers, peer support, volunteer groups, student groups, and other organizations Direct services focused on early identification and support for farm and rural families who need services related to an individual’s disability Marketing and information sharing to enhance and promote educational opportunities, networking and available services. The grant will also help to expand the CDHD’s Vandal HARVEST project – a program dedicated to providing accessible education, training and production of hydroponic crops. Vandal HARVEST will be further developed as a key resource for farmers with disabilities, emphasizing accessibility practices and competitive integrated employment opportunities. It is currently operating in two on-campus greenhouses. AgrAbility funding will help expand this workspace to additional refurbished greenhouses. Vital support where it’s needed Farming and agriculture is ranked as one of the most hazardous industries in the nation, with high rates of fatality, injury and illness. It also happens to be the largest contributor to Idaho’s economy. According to the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, agribusiness accounts for $31 billion and roughly 20% of our gross state product each year. With an estimated 19% national prevalence of disability among farmers (Miller and Aherin, 2018), this funding will offer much needed to support to more than 16,000 famers across Idaho and Montana. IATP will continue to work with the Idaho Department of Vocational Rehabilitation to provide assistive technology assessments and consultations – an established collaboration with life changing results. Work will also be done to partner with established and new initiatives focused on supporting farmers and ranchers with disabilities. This includes programs like Vandal HARVEST, the Western Region Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network, Harvest Heroes Veteran Beginning Farming and Gardening Education Program, and Farmer Veteran Coalition. You can find more information about AgrAbility online, or contact IATP to learn more about resources and services available right here in Idaho.