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2026 Call for Proposals

Applications are currently being accepted for 2026 research plots.


CLICK HERE TO APPLY

The new Whatcom Food & Farming Station (WFFS), will be operating on the previous site of Boxx Berry Farm at 6211 Northwest Drive in Ferndale starting in October, 2025. WFFS is issuing a request for proposals for research in the upcoming year (January – December 2026). WFFS is interested in supporting projects that align with the current research priorities (see Appendix A). 

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The initial deadline for submission for proposals is December 12, 2025. However, proposals are accepted on a rolling basis and WFFS may consider proposals at their discretion outside of the RFP response period.

Proposals must be submitted online through the form linked above. Each item in the proposal form must be addressed. Proposals should be self-explanatory and easy to understand. Objectives for projects should be specific and measurable. Final approval decisions for projects will be made in late January, and applicants will be notified shortly thereafter.

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For questions or clarifications, please email WFFS at info@whatcomfarmstation.org.

 

Requirements

 

  • Minimum plot size of 2 acres. Multiple entities may share a single plot, but a primary entity responsible must be specified.

  • A rental rate of $700 per acre per year applies to all plots. Rental fees are non-refundable.

  • Approved applicants will be required to sign a Rental Agreement as well as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) clarifying land use expectations and limitations.

  • Approved applicants must hold a general liability insurance policy naming the Whatcom Food and Farming Station and the Port of Bellingham as additional insured.

  • Land use and operations must not interfere with neighboring research plots

  • Access to risers for irrigation will be available for all plots. However, researchers are responsible for providing their own irrigation mechanisms (drip tape, sprinklers, hand lines, etc.)

  • Availability of building space and/or machinery is not guaranteed and the need for such must be specified in the project application. Additional fees may apply.

 

Funding Support
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For projects specific to raspberry research, the Washington Red Raspberry Commission may have research grants available to non-profit organizations, including commodity groups/associations and farmers’ groups, private enterprises such as past consultants and food processors, and university and extension programs through the Washington Red Raspberry Commission. Please contact them for more information on funding opportunities.

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