Multiple Funding Streams for Conservation Projects available through Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District

Competitive funding is available through NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. It offers various funding opportunities to ensure the growth of New York’s agricultural communities and the protection of our state’s water resources. These opportunities touch many parts of the diverse agricultural sector.

Climate Resilient Farming Grant—Round 5, Deadline: February 3

Funding will support agricultural projects that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help agricultural producers prepare for and better manage impacts of climate change, including increased heavy storm events, overall rainfall, and periods of drought. There are 3 tracks of funding: agricultural waste storage and flare systems, water management systems, and soil health management systems. The goal is to reduce the impact of agriculture on climate change (mitigation) and to increase the resiliency of New York State farms in the face of a changing climate (adaptation).

Ag Nonpoint Source Pollution Abatement and Control Program—Round 26: Deadline March 2

Supports agricultural water quality conservation projects. Examples of projects include waste storage, silage leachate collection systems, soil health practices, agrichemical handling facilities. The goal is to reduce and or prevent the nonpoint source contribution from agricultural activities in watersheds across the state.
Implementation of High – Efficiency Agricultural Irrigation Water Management Systems Grant: Deadline March 2

This funding intended to provide financial assistance to implement improvements to existing agricultural irrigation systems that result in the conservation of water resources, improvements to nutrient management strategies and crop production yields, while safeguarding natural resources.

High-efficiency systems, particularly micro irrigation systems (e.g. trickle, drip and low flow emitters) work to strategically place irrigated water within the root zone of the target crop. If properly designed, these systems conserve water resources and can be used to transport nutrients and pesticides; reducing the potential of runoff and groundwater contamination. Elim-inating direct contact of irrigated water with the consumable portion of the plant can also reduce potential health risks associated with agricultural waters. Proper irrigation enhances the quantity and quality of most crops while reducing associated risks to human health and the environment.

NYS Grown and Certified Farms grant: Deadline March 2

Supports practices to promote the advancement of environmentally and sustainably produced agricultural products. The goal is to assist growers in producing products using the highest environmental standards in order to protect and improve New York’s natural resources, including the water quality of its ocean and Great Lakes.

In order to participate in any of these funding opportunities, you must be a participant in the Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) program. Financial cost share match from the farmer may be a requirement of the grant.

For more information contact Christine Watkins, Executive Director of Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District, before the deadline dates listed above (315) 782-2749.