The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has announced a Request for Proposals for Round 30 of the Agricultural Nonpoint Source (Ag NPS) Abatement and Control Program. Approximately 25 million dollars has been included in this year’s state budget designated to this program.
Agricultural operations wishing to apply for funding to implement conservation practices MUST contact the SWCD office no later than Monday, February 3rd if they are interested in participating. Timely notification by producers is crucial in order to collect the information necessary to develop strong grant proposals. Additional information will be provided about prerequisites for the grant application process at that time. For this opportunity, an up to date AEM Tier 3 plan or Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) is needed to participate. This requirement ensures that appropriate Best Management Practices are being implemented in the most suitable places to meet both environmental needs and the farms’ management objectives. Farms that do not have a current AEM Tier 3 plan or CNMP and wish to be eligible for future grant funding should also contact the SWCD for assistance.
During the last round of this program, the Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) secured over 2.3 million dollars in cost share funding. That funding, along with the dedicated commitment of resources from local farms, will enable more than 4.2 million dollars in conservation projects to be implemented across Cortland County. These projects help farms recycle and reuse on farm nutrients in an environmentally sound manner, help control soil erosion, nutrient losses to the environment, aid in the protection of water resources, increase the resiliency of farms from climate related events and improve farm operation management efficiencies.
These projects also benefit our local economy. According to a survey by the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee, well over 90 percent of grant dollars spent on conservation projects are reinvested back into the local and regional economy. Local contractors are hired to implement the projects and supplies are purchased from area businesses that spend this money locally on labor, materials and equipment. In addition to the positive local economic impacts, participation in conservation programs helps foster a positive and active relationship between Cortland County agriculture, local supporting agencies, the community, and the environment. Call SWCD at 607-756-5991 to find out more about how your farm can be involved.
