House Republican Caucus Chairman Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) announced this week $100,000 in grant funding was awarded to the Wilson Livestock Market.

The funding is part of the Agricultural Enterprise Fund Livestock Market Improvement Initiative, administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to strengthen the state’s livestock industry.

“Agriculture continues to be the backbone of Tennessee’s economy because of the hardworking farmers, producers and livestock professionals across our state,” Faison said. “These funds will help ensure producers can operate safely and efficiently while continuing to drive the Volunteer State’s agricultural economy forward.”

The cost-share program helps livestock markets invest in upgraded infrastructure, equipment and technology that improve safety, animal welfare and day-to-day operations.

Wilson Livestock Market is a livestock auction house in Newport that has been family owned and operated since 1966 and hosts weekly cattle sales, according to the business’s social media.

Grants were awarded to 15 auction houses and stockyards across the Volunteer State.

Jeremy Faison has represented District 11 which includes Cocke and part of Hamblen and Jefferson counties, since 2011 and is completing 16th year of service this year.