IMAGE Cost Share Program

The Indiana Management of Agriculture Enhancements (IMAGE) Cost-Share Program is a conservation funding initiative administered by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to help producers implement practical conservation improvements. IMAGE provides financial assistance and technical support for projects that improve livestock management, strengthen farm infrastructure, improve soil health, and protect Indiana's natural resources, delivered in partnership with Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), NRCS, and other partners. Made possible through Clean Water Indiana funding, approved participants may receive reimbursement for up to seventy-five percent (75%) of eligible project costs through a competitive ranking process, subject to available funds. Eligible practices include Heavy Use Area Protection (NRCS 561), Pasture and Hay Planting (NRCS 512), Watering Facility (NRCS 614), Livestock Pipeline (NRCS 516), Soil Amendments, and committee-approved unfunded EQIP practices, installed to NRCS specifications.

Producers in the pilot coverage area, comprising these Indiana counties: Brown, Clay, Daviess, Dubois, Gibson, Greene, Johnson, Knox, Martin, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Parke, Perry, Pike, Posey, Putnam, Spencer, Sullivan, Vanderburgh, Vermillion, Vigo, and Warrick. Applications are evaluated by the IMAGE Ranking Committee.

Producers contact their local Resource Specialist or Soil and Water Conservation District office to discuss project ideas and eligibility, then submit an application for review. Applications are ranked and selected by the IMAGE Ranking Committee; selected applicants receive an award notice with their maximum reimbursement amount. Producers have 12 months from approval to install approved practices (with a 6-month progress check-in). Reimbursement of up to 75% of eligible costs follows verification and receipt review.