BROOKINGS - The deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture is traveling to South Dakota to announce $75 million in USDA research grants to combat U.S. and global hunger.

Kathleen Merrigan will visit South Dakota State University in Brookings on Wednesday morning.

The grants also aim to promote rural business development and highlight the economic importance of local and regional food systems.

Merrigan also plans to discuss USDA's 'Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food' initiative and efforts to create new opportunities for farmers, ranchers, and communities by building local and regional food systems.

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