Agricultural Conservation Funding Guide for Pennsylvania
Funding Opportunities for Agricultural Conservation in Pennsylvania
Welcome
This guide is designed to help agricultural producers, landowners, and conservation professionals navigate through the wide range of funding opportunities available for conservation practices in Pennsylvania. From reducing nutrient runoff to improving soil health, numerous local, state, and federal programs support "best management practices" (BMPs). Many of these programs can be used together and leveraged to maximize funding and help make projects more financially viable. Whether you are just getting started or looking to expand your conservation work, this handbook is your go-to resource.
This publication was developed by the State Conservation Commission (SCC) and Penn State Extension's Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training (CACAT) with the support of the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP). ACAP provides financial and technical assistance for implementing BMPs on Pennsylvania farms. The program is administered by SCC and locally implemented by participating conservation districts.
First Steps
If you have identified a resource concern on your farm, your first step should be to contact your county conservation district. Not sure who that is? Visit the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts (PACD) website and use the "Find Your Conservation District" tool. Conservation district staff can guide you to the appropriate funding source or connect you with the right agency if the funding falls outside their direct programs.
Using this Guide
This guide is meant to serve as a reference tool and is not an all-inclusive list of funding opportunities, although we have included as many options as possible. It is a living document, maintained online for the most current information. Visit the CACAT website for updates. If you are using a printed copy, scan the QR code with your smartphone to access the online version and view active hyperlinks.
This guide is organized by funding types: state, federal, and nonprofit. Additional opportunities may occasionally be available through local, regional, or national agencies, nonprofit organizations, or watershed groups. Your county conservation district staff can help you identify and pursue alternative funding options.
At the end of this guide, you will find resources to help you combine funding sources when applicable, examples of BMPs with potential funding options, and a glossary of terms used throughout the guide. Please note that within the field of agricultural conservation, many acronyms and abbreviations are used. If there are any that you are unsure of, be sure to reference the glossary at the end of the guide.
State Funding Programs
Administered by: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, State Conservation Commission (SCC)
Ag Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP)
Who Can Apply: Farmers and agricultural landowners can apply through their county conservation district.
Purpose: ACAP provides financial and technical assistance for the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) on agricultural operations within the Commonwealth.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This is a reimbursement-based grant program. This means that grantees are required to cover project expenses upfront and will receive reimbursement after submitting appropriate documentation verifying that the work has been completed in compliance with the grant terms.
Notes: Funded BMPs must be included in a conservation or Agricultural Erosion & Sediment Control (Ag E&S) plan, along with a manure or nutrient management plan. If these plans have not already been developed, their creation should be part of the application. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, BMPs must align with relevant Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) or Countywide Action Plans (CAP) goals. Priority is given to practices that address nitrogen, phosphorus, or sediment reduction.
Agriculture-Linked Low-Interest Loan Program (AgriLink)
Who Can Apply: Eligible farmers, including any individual, partnership, corporation, or legal entity that has legal and financial responsibility for an agricultural operation and is actively involved in its management.
Purpose: AgriLink is a low-interest loan program that supports Pennsylvania farmers implementing best management practices (BMPs).
Offered through a partnership between the Pennsylvania Treasury and Department of Agriculture and subsidized by the State Conservation Commission (SCC), AgriLink provides affordable financing through eligible commercial lenders and Farm Credit Services.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: AgriLink provides low-interest loans.
Notes: AgriLink loans are available for up to $250,000 with a repayment term of up to 12 years. To qualify, borrowers must have an approved nutrient management plan, manure management plan, agricultural erosion and sedimentation plan, another SCC-approved conservation plan, or a verified BMP project.
Farmers can apply through any participating commercial lender or Farm Credit Service office. Applicants must coordinate with their local conservation district (or another commission-approved entity) to provide the necessary documentation at the time of application.
Conservation Excellence Grant Program (CEG)
Who Can Apply: Farmers and agricultural landowners within certain counties within the Pennsylvania portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. They must apply through their county conservation district. The CEG Program prioritizes counties based on their significance in Pennsylvania's Chesapeake Bay Phase 3 Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP). These counties are categorized into tiers:
- Tier 1: Lancaster and York Counties
- Tier 2: Bedford, Centre, Cumberland, Franklin, and Lebanon Counties
- Tier 3: Adams, Bradford, Clearfield, Clinton, Columbia, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lycoming, Mifflin, Northumberland, Perry, Schuylkill, Snyder, Susquehanna, and Tioga Counties
While Tier 1 and Tier 2 counties have been the primary focus for CEG funding, Tier 3 counties are also eligible, although they may receive lower priority or funding levels.
Purpose: CEG was designed to implement best management practices (BMPs) within the Chesapeake Bay watershed in support of the goals outlined in the WIP.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This is primarily a reimbursement-type grant. This means that applicants are expected to cover project expenses upfront and will receive reimbursement after submitting appropriate documentation verifying that the work has been completed in compliance with the grant terms.
In addition to grants, the CEG Program offers a combination of loans and tax credits to support the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) on agricultural operations. Applicants can leverage low-interest loans, such as Agri-Link loans or commercial loans, and may also be eligible for tax credits through the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Program.
Notes: To apply, submit the online application through your local county conservation district. Only pre-approved BMP project types are eligible for approval. Funding amounts are based on project costs, with a maximum award of $250,000. Small grants are also available for projects under $25,000.
Resource Enhancement and Protection Program (REAP)
Who Can Apply: Farmers, agricultural landowners, businesses, and individuals who sponsor an eligible project.
Purpose: REAP is a first-come, first-served program that allows farmers and agricultural landowners to earn Pennsylvania income tax credits for implementing conservation practices. Through REAP's sponsorship program, businesses and individuals can also help finance a project and apply for tax credits instead of the farmer. These credits help offset the cost of BMPs that improve farm operations while protecting water quality.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: State income tax credits to farmers and agricultural landowners who implement approved conservation practices or businesses and individuals who sponsor an eligible project. Tax credits can also be sold to businesses and individuals wishing to reduce their tax liability by purchasing tax credits.
Notes: Eligibility is based on compliance with the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law. Agricultural operations must have current Agricultural Erosion & Sediment Control (Ag E&S) Plans and Manure Management Plans (MMPs) for all farmed acres. REAP offers tax credits covering 50%, 75%, or 90% of eligible costs for BMPs that reduce nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment pollution.
Sustainable Agriculture Program
Who Can Apply: Applicants must apply for projects located within the Most Effective Basin (MEB) geography of PA. Applicants must either be a principal operator/manager (including individuals, farm corporations, partnerships, or enterprises) who reside in PA, or a qualified Non-profit Educational Institution that demonstrates capacity to conduct Ag research and/or educational programs, as well as demonstrating reasonable experience in research and/or education for Sustainable Ag practices.
Purpose: To offer reimbursement grants to promote and support sustainable agriculture in this Commonwealth, provide farmers the greatest return on their investments by reducing operating expenses, enhancing the value of end products, ensuring water and soil quality for future generations, and by reducing the reliance on off-farm inputs.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: The Sustainable Ag Grant is delivered as a reimbursement for practices that are completed by the farmer and/or hired contractors. Grants may not exceed $25,000. However, an additional $25,000 may be granted if the grantee matches that additional amount dollar for dollar, so that an individual grant may not exceed $50,000 in one calendar year.
Notes: Practices must meet or exceed NRCS technical specs unless otherwise approved. The Sustainable Ag Grant is contingent upon funds continuing to be available through the US Environmental Protection’s (EPA) MEB funding.
Administered by: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP)
Chesapeake Bay Countywide Action Plan (CAP) Implementation Block Grant
Who Can Apply: While all 43 counties have waterways that drain into the Chesapeake Bay watershed, only 34 counties have developed and are actively implementing CAPs, making them eligible for these grants. Eligibility for these grants is based on several factors:
- CAP Development and Implementation: Counties must have developed and be actively implementing a CAP.
- Tier Designation: Counties are categorized into tiers based on their significance in the Phase 3 Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP), which influences funding allocation.
- Pollution Reduction Impact: The county's relative impact on nutrient and sediment pollution to the Chesapeake Bay is considered.
- Water Quality Standards: The number of stream miles in the county that do not meet water quality standards due to nutrient or sediment impairment is evaluated.
- Planning Goals Addressed: The percentage of the nutrient and sediment local planning goals assigned to the county in the Phase 3 WIP that their CAP addresses is assessed.
- Previous Funding Utilization: The amount of funding awarded to the county in the past year and their progress in utilizing those funds are reviewed.
- Project Specificity: The level of detail provided regarding specific projects to be implemented within the next year is considered.
Purpose: The DEP developed the CAP Implementation Block Grant program to fund the implementation of CAPs at the county level, aiming to reduce nutrient and sediment pollution as part of Pennsylvania's Phase 3 WIP. This program funds the implementation of CAPs designed to meet targeted nutrient and sediment reduction goals. The Block Grant streamlines multiple state and federal funding sources into a single agreement with a lead county agency to support CAP execution.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This is a grant in which the allocation is based on progress with money used from the prior year's award. Funds are provided to counties based on approved project plans, with the flexibility to manage and implement projects as per their CAPs.
Notes: County planning teams use their CAPs to prioritize projects for funding through the Implementation Block Grant each year. The grant is designed with flexibility; if the top-priority project cannot be completed, the county may proceed to the next project on the list, and so on.
Growing Greener Plus Grants Program
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants include watershed groups, local or county governments, municipal authorities, county planning commissions, county conservation districts, councils of governments, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations.
Purpose: The Growing Greener Plus Grants Program provides funding for projects aimed at improving water quality and protecting watersheds through practices such as streambank restoration, erosion control, nutrient management, and addressing nonpoint source pollution from agricultural runoff, stormwater, and abandoned mine drainage.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This program offers grant-based funding.
Notes: The program is primarily funded through the Environmental Stewardship Fund, which receives revenue from landfill tipping fees. This program encompasses three grant programs: Growing Greener Watershed Restoration and Protection; Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act (SMCRA) Bond Forfeiture; and Stormwater Management Planning (Act 167) Grants. These funds require a match. For the latest information, please check the website. In some cases, additional funding may be available through settlements, such as the Energy Transfer/Sunoco criminal charges plea settlement, which directs funds to water quality projects in affected counties.
Small Business Advantage Grant
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants include small Pennsylvania businesses, including farms and agricultural producers.
Purpose: The Small Business Advantage Grant offers funding to Pennsylvania small businesses for projects that improve energy efficiency or reduce pollution and waste. Eligible activities include upgrading equipment or supplies, improving processes, or minimizing runoff into waterways.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: The Small Business Advantage Grant provides reimbursement grants ranging from 50% to 80% of eligible project costs.
Notes: Maximum grant awards range from $7,500 to $12,000, depending on the project's environmental impact and if it is in a designated Environmental Justice Area in Pennsylvania.
Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Grant
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants include watershed associations, counties, municipalities, conservation districts, councils of governments, 501(c)(3)s, educational institutions, and municipal authorities.
Purpose: The Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Grant, funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under Section 319(h) of the federal Water Pollution Control Act, supports the implementation of approved Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs). In Pennsylvania, it is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP).
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This is a reimbursement-based grant program. This means that grantees are required to cover project expenses upfront and will receive reimbursement after submitting appropriate documentation verifying that the work has been completed in compliance with the grant terms. This grant has a completion deadline after the grant is awarded.
Notes: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 319 grants cannot be used for projects covered under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), including Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s). Farms must have a manure management or nutrient management plan in place to be eligible for funding.
Administered by: Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST)
Nonpoint Source Pollution Funding Program
Website (PENNVEST)
Website (PENNVEST Design Manual - PDF)
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants include any municipality, authority, or private entity that owns or operates a nonpoint source pollution project in Pennsylvania. Projects may address agricultural runoff, stormwater, drinking water, or wastewater. Agricultural projects must utilize best management practices (BMPs) recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (FSA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
Purpose: PENNVEST provides funding for nonpoint source pollution projects through its Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program. This funding supports projects like agricultural BMPs and other initiatives to reduce pollution from sources like runoff.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This program provides grants, low-interest loans, or a combination of low-interest loans and grants to support projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution across Pennsylvania.
Notes: PENNVEST also provides loans and grants for other water infrastructure projects, including drinking water and wastewater systems.
Administered by: Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (PA DCNR)
Community Conservation Partnership Program (C2P2) Grants
Who Can Apply: Counties, municipalities, municipal agencies, nonprofit organizations, state heritage areas, and pre-qualified land trusts.
Purpose: Several grant opportunities are available through the C2P2 program, which can fund planning, acquisition, and development of public parks, recreation areas, motorized and non-motorized trails, river conservation and access, open space preservation, and community and watershed forestry projects. C2P2s Community and Watershed Forestry Grants can fund the implementation of forest riparian buffers on agricultural lands.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: C2P2 are grants that are primarily reimbursable; grantees pay upfront and request reimbursement. They may have a matching requirement, which is typically 50% but varies by grant category.
Notes: DCNR's Bureau of Recreation and Conservation funds local governments and conservation organizations for park, recreation, and natural resource conservation projects.
Federal Funding Programs
Administered By: United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service (USDA NRCS)
Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants include tribal governments, state and local governments, non-governmental organizations with farmland or grassland protection programs, and private landowners, including tribal members. All landowners must meet adjusted gross income (AGI) limits and comply with the Highly Erodible Land Conservation (HELC) and Wetland Conservation (WC) provisions of the 1985 Food Security Act.
Purpose: To help landowners, land trusts, and other entities protect, restore, and enhance wetlands or protect working farms and ranches through conservation easements.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: NRCS contributes a percentage of the fair market value of the agricultural land easement, depending on a variety of factors.
Notes: NRCS accepts ACEP applications year-round, and funding is provided through a competitive process.
Agricultural Management Assistance Program (AMA)
Who Can Apply: Applicants must own or control land within a designated Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) state and meet adjusted gross income (AGI) eligibility requirements. Eligible land includes cropland, rangeland, grassland, pastureland, nonindustrial forestland, and other private land used for crop or livestock production where conservation practices can reduce risk.
Purpose: To help agricultural producers manage financial risk through diversification, marketing, or natural resource conservation practices.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: Provides financial assistance up to 75% of the cost of installing conservation practices. Total payments shall not exceed $50,000 per participant for any fiscal year.
Notes: AMA is available in 16 states where participation in the Federal Crop Insurance Program is historically low, including Pennsylvania. Contact your local NRCS office to get started.
Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG)
Who Can Apply: Eligible applicants include state and local governments, Tribal governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Pacific Islands Area.
Purpose: To support the development of new tools, approaches, practices, and technologies to further natural resource conservation on private lands.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: Funding is disbursed on a reimbursable basis. The grantee will submit completed deliverables along with an SF-270 Request for Reimbursement form.
Notes: Applicants must provide a 1:1 match, which can be either cash or in-kind services, or a combination of both, but must come from non-federal sources.
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Who Can Apply: Individuals, legal entities, joint operations, or tribal governments that own or rent and currently manage land for agricultural or forest production.
Purpose: To compensate agricultural and forest producers who agree to increase their level of conservation by adopting additional conservation activities while also maintaining their baseline levels of conservation.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: There are three types of payments available: annual contract payments, supplemental payments, and minimum contract payments.
Notes: The program represents a genuine commitment to conservation. A CSP contract is for 5 years, with the opportunity to compete for contract renewal if you successfully fulfill the initial contract and agree to achieve additional conservation objectives.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Who Can Apply: Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who own or rent agricultural land.
Purpose: To provide technical and financial assistance to producers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: If the application is selected, you will enter into a contract with NRCS to receive financial assistance for the cost of implementing conservation practices. Payment rates for conservation practices are reviewed and set each fiscal year.
Notes: Applications for NRCS conservation programs are accepted continuously; however, customers should apply by state-specific ranking dates to be considered for the current funding cycle.
Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP)
Who Can Apply: Partner entities who work with farmers on the ground submit project proposals to NRCS and then farmers and ranchers are able to apply through NRCS to participate. Projects must be carried out on agricultural or nonindustrial private forest land or associated land on which NRCS determines an eligible activity would help achieve conservation benefits.
Purpose: To further the conservation, protection, restoration, and sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife, agricultural land, and related natural resources on eligible land on a regional or watershed scale.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: Two different categories: RCPP Classic, where NRCS provides funding to partners to support conservation activities, and RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFAs), where partners are reimbursed.
Notes: By leveraging collective resources and collaborating on common goals, RCPP demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in delivering results for agriculture and conservation.
Administered By: United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (USDA FSA)
Conservation Loan Program
Who Can Apply: All farmers and ranchers, from small and financially limited operations to large and well-established ones. The family farm and test for credit requirements are not applicable to Conservation Loans.
Purpose: Implementing conservation practices approved by the USDA NRCS in the operations Conservation Plan
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: Conservation Loans with limits up to $2,251,000.
Notes: Must have an approved USDA NRCS Conservation Plan before applying.
Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
Who Can Apply: Farmers and landowners with environmentally sensitive land that meets criteria based on cropping history and environmental risk.
Purpose: To reduce soil erosion, improve water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat by converting highly erodible or sensitive acreage to long-term vegetative cover such as native grasses, trees, or riparian buffers.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: Provides annual rental payments and cost-share assistance to help establish and maintain conservation practices over the life of the contract.
Notes: CRP promotes sustainable agriculture by retiring at-risk land from production and supporting environmental resilience on working farms.
Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)
Who Can Apply: Farmers and landowners with environmentally sensitive land that qualifies for CRP and is located within designated Pennsylvania CREP regions.
Purpose: CREP is an enhanced version of CRP, administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in partnership with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. It targets high-priority conservation issues such as sediment and nutrient runoff in critical watersheds by offering additional incentives and technical support.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: Participants receive cost-share reimbursements for establishing conservation practices, plus annual rental payments—ranging from $20 to $230 per acre, per year—for the contract duration.
Notes: CREP often funds non-traditional projects. If you have marginal land or recurring problem areas, CREP might be the solution. Contact your local FSA office for current enrollment opportunities.
Funding Programs Offered or Administered by Non-profits
Administered by: National Fish and Wildlife Federation (NFWF)
Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund
Who Can Apply: Conservation districts, nonprofit 501(c) organizations, state government agencies, local governments, municipal governments, tribal governments and organizations, and educational institutions for projects in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Purpose: NFWF's Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund awards millions of dollars per year through four competitive grant programs: the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction (INSR) Grants Program, the Small Watersheds Grants (SWG) Program, the Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program, and the Pennsylvania Most Effective Basins (MEB) Grants Program. Funding for INSR, SWG, and MEB is primarily from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Chesapeake Bay Program and, for WILD, from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). Additional funding is provided by other federal, state, and corporate partners. All these programs provide funding to implement projects that improve water quality and restore habitat in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, including through the implementation of agricultural conservation practices.
Financing Type and Disbursement Method: This is a reimbursement-based grants program. This means that grantees are required to cover project expenses upfront and will receive reimbursement after submitting appropriate documentation verifying that the work has been completed in compliance with the grant terms.
Notes: Each program has a specific focus for the type of projects it will fund, and some have distinct grant tracks. Read the current request for proposals for each program for further guidance on specific program priorities.
Funding From Nonprofit Conservation Organizations and Others
Many nonprofit conservation partners exist in Pennsylvania. Some of these may have funding to help implement agricultural conservation practices in your region. For example, they may apply for the kinds of grants described above and then administer this funding to implement BMPs on farms. Or there may be some other local or regional source of funding that is uniquely available in your area. Contact your county conservation district to learn more about other local, regional, state, and national nonprofit funding resources that may be available to you.
Combining or Leveraging Funding Sources
While most of these funding sources can stand alone, leveraging or combining funding sources can help maximize the resources available for agricultural projects. Once you have determined you need assistance and know how to contact your conservation district, consider the following before or during your meeting with the conservation district staff.
1. Identify Projects Eligible for Multiple Sources
You may ask a question like:
"Can my project qualify for funding from multiple programs?"
And "Are there overlaps in funding?"
For example:
- Practices like cover cropping, manure management, or riparian buffers often qualify for multiple funding sources (e.g., ACAP, NRCS EQIP, and state conservation grants).
2. Highlight Compatible Funding Sources
For example:
- ACAP + Nonprofit Funding: Cover major expenses through ACAP and use nonprofit grants for additional components like educational outreach or advanced technology.
- EQIP + REAP: Use EQIP cost-share to implement conservation practices and apply for REAP tax credits to offset out-of-pocket costs.
3. Decision Point: Cost-Share and Matching Funds
For example:
"Does the program require matching funds?"
- If yes, list possible funding sources that can help meet this requirement. For example:
- State programs can often provide matching funds for federal grants.
- Non-profits, if available, might cover gaps that state or federal funding does not.
4. Steps for Combining Funding
- State-Level Funding
- Many state programs, like ACAP, can stand alone. Some are designed to supplement federal funds. For example, state conservation districts may help cover costs not included in federal programs.
- Explore Federal Programs
- Federal programs often have the broadest eligibility and largest funding pools. Secure these funds first as a foundation.
- Incorporate Nonprofit Grants
- If available, use nonprofit funding to address unique aspects of the project, like educational workshops, pilot projects, or additional materials.
- Document and Align Costs
- Ensure all expenses are clearly documented and that combining funding sources does not result in duplication of reimbursement (double-dipping).
- Seek Technical Assistance
- Work with a conservation district employee, NRCS specialist, and/or a Technical Service Provider (TSP) to coordinate applications and ensure compliance with all requirements.
Additional Guidance for Users
Include these tips in the resource:
- Build a Team: Collaborate with funding agencies, conservation districts, or non-profits for guidance on combining sources effectively.
- Timing Is Key: Pay attention to funding application deadlines and terms. Once funding sources are awarded, pay attention to implementation deadlines; they may be different for different funding sources.
- Avoid Double-Dipping: Clearly delineate which funding source will cover specific project components.
- Leverage Tax Credits: When possible, use state tax credit programs to further reduce costs (e.g., Pennsylvania's REAP).
- Tips for Preparing a Successful Application:
- Gather required documentation early (e.g., business plans, tax forms, project plans, cost estimates).
- Align your application with the program’s stated goals.
- Provide clear and measurable outcomes.
Common Requirements Across Programs:
Many funding programs for conservation practices in Pennsylvania, including ACAP, REAP, AgriLink, NRCS programs, and others, share the following core eligibility and documentation requirements:
1. Agricultural Erosion & Sedimentation (Ag E&S) Plan or Conservation Plan
- Required for all agricultural operations disturbing 5,000 square feet or more of soil, including plowing, tilling, and grazing.
- The plan must identify soil conservation practices that reduce erosion and protect water quality.
- An NRCS Conservation Plan may meet the PA Ag E&S requirements. All USDA programs require a Conservation Plan.
2. Manure Management Plan or Nutrient Management Plan
- All farms that generate or land-apply manure are required by law to have a Manure Management Plan (MMP).
- Larger operations that meet the animal density levels of a Concentrated Animal Operation (CAO) require an Act 38 Nutrient Management Plan (NMP), or Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) require an NPDES Plan; both must be developed by a certified specialist.
3. Proof of Agricultural Operation
- Applicants must demonstrate active farming through documentation such as:
- IRS Schedule F (farm income),
- Farm Service Agency (FSA) registration,
- or a letter from a conservation district or agricultural agency confirming farming activity.
4. Conservation or Environmental Impact Plans
- Some programs require additional planning documents that outline environmental benefits, such as:
- Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs),
- Countywide Action Plans (CAPs),
- Forest Management Plans,
- or specific BMP designs and specs.
5. Cost-Share or Matching Fund Commitments
- Many grants and cost-share programs require matching funds from the applicant.
- This can be in the form of cash, in-kind services, or third-party contributions.
- Match percentages vary by program (e.g., 50/50 match, or 25% applicant contribution).
Sample BMPs with Possible Funding Sources
For agricultural best management practices (BMPs) funding, it is essential to focus on projects that promote sustainability, enhance productivity, and provide environmental benefits. Here are a few ideas that can attract funding for Ag BMP initiatives:
1. Cover Crop Initiatives
- Description: Incentivize farmers to plant cover crops during off-seasons to improve soil health, prevent erosion, and enhance nutrient management.
- Funding Focus: Soil health improvement, nutrient retention, erosion control.
- Potential Funding Sources: USDA NRCS, state departments of agriculture, and local soil and water conservation districts.
2. Buffer Strips and Riparian Zones
- Description: Establish vegetative buffer zones along waterways to filter runoff, reduce nutrient leaching, and improve water quality.
- Funding Focus: Water quality improvement, wildlife habitat enhancement, and erosion control.
- Potential Funding Sources: Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), DCNR’s Community and Watershed Forestry Program.
3. Rotational Grazing and Pasture Management
- Description: Support adopting rotational grazing systems to optimize forage use, reduce soil compaction, and enhance pasture productivity.
- Funding Focus: Soil and pasture health, water quality protection, and biodiversity.
- Potential Funding Sources: Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), EQIP, and local conservation districts.
4. Heavy Use Area Protection
- Description: Install stabilized surfaces in areas with concentrated livestock traffic (such as feeding or watering stations) to prevent soil erosion, reduce runoff, and improve animal health.
- Funding Focus: Water quality improvement, erosion prevention, and animal welfare.
- Potential Funding Sources: REAP, EQIP, Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission (through ACAP), National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), Chesapeake Bay Stewardship Fund grants, and local conservation districts.
5. Waste Storage Facilities
- Description: Construct or upgrade manure storage facilities to allow for better timing of manure applications, reduce nutrient runoff, and protect nearby water resources.
- Funding Focus: Nutrient management, water quality protection, and regulatory compliance.
- Potential Funding Sources: EQIP, REAP (PA tax credit), Growing Greener Plus Grants, ACAP, Chesapeake Bay CAP Implementation Grants.
Glossary of Terms
319 Grants: Nonpoint Source Pollution Management Program (Section 319).
ACAP: Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program.
Ag E&S Plan: Agricultural Erosion & Sediment Control Plan. A written, site-specific record of how the farm owner does or plans to reduce erosion and sedimentation from cropland and animal heavy use areas and is the minimum planning effort required for agricultural operations in Pennsylvania.
BMPs: Best management practices. Activities, facilities, measures, planning, or procedures used to minimize accelerated erosion and sedimentation and manage stormwater to protect, maintain, reclaim, and restore the quality of waters and the existing and designated uses of waters within this Commonwealth before, during, and after earth disturbance activities.
CACAT: Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training.
CAP: Countywide Action Plan. These plans are developed by counties in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to outline strategies for reducing pollution and improving water quality.
Cost-share: A funding arrangement where the recipient pays part of the project costs.
EPA: United States Environmental Protection Agency.
EQIP: Environmental Quality Incentives Program through NRCS.
MMP: Manure Management Plan. All facilities or properties that have animals or produce manure or apply manure to crop fields and pastures must have a Manure Management Plan. This includes livestock and poultry operations, small hobby farms (sheep, goats, llamas, etc.), and horse owners.
NPDES Permit: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit. A program that regulates point sources of pollution discharged into U.S. waters. It was established in 1972 by the Clean Water Act and requires facilities that discharge pollutants to obtain permits.
NFWF: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.
NPS: Nonpoint Source Pollution. Pollution that comes from diffuse sources rather than a single discharge point. It is caused by rain or melting snow running across the ground, accumulating any pollutants it encounters, including sediment such as soil and rock particles, and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus.
NRCS: United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service.
PACD: Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts.
PA DCNR: Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
PA DEP: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
PDA: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
PENNVEST: Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority.
SCC: State Conservation Commission.
Technical Assistance: Support services like design, engineering, or planning provided to implement conservation practices.
TMDL: Total Maximum Daily Load. This is a regulatory term, describing a value of the maximum amount of a pollutant that a body of water can receive while still meeting water quality standards. TMDL may also mean a set of pollution limits has been established to meet applicable water quality standards for a specific watershed.
TSP: Technical Service Provider. TSPs work on behalf of the customer to offer planning, design, and implementation services that meet NRCS criteria. This assistance helps improve the producer’s operation and addresses resource concerns on their land.
USDA FSA: United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency.
USFWS: United States Fish and Wildlife Service.
WIP: Watershed Implementation Plan. These plans outline the state's plan to meet pollution reduction goals for the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL).
Authors/Prepared by:
Dana Flowers, extension educator, The Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training, Penn State Extension, Penn State
Eric Cromer, ACAP program manager, Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission
Genevieve Christ, extension educator, The Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training, Penn State Extension, Penn State
We thank the following reviewers:
Matthew Royer, associate director of Partnerships & Engagement, Institute of Sustainable Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Science; director, Agriculture and Environment Center, Penn State
Liz Fulton, agricultural outreach specialist, Agriculture and Environment Center, and The Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training
Rebecca Siko, conservation specialist, Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission
Samantha Zaner, conservation program specialist, Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission
The Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training (CACAT) at Penn State Extension is made possible by funding through the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP), which is administered by the Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission (SCC).
Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences research and extension programs are funded in part by Pennsylvania counties, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
