Browse Ambrook’s collection of grants, loans, discounts, cost shares, easements, and insurance for recreation.

- Application for AMA, ACEP Wetland Reserve Easements, CSP and EQIP
- Application for ACEP Agricultural Land Easements

Landowners - to learn more about both ALE and WRE, contact your local NRCS office. An NRCS conservationist will visit you and evaluate your land to help you determine eligibility for the various components of ACEP. If your land is eligible for ALE and you are looking for an eligible entity to hold your conservation easement; please visit
- https://farmlandinfo.org/farmland-protection-directory/     
- https://www.findalandtrust.org/     
Eligible Entities - to learn more about Agricultural Land Easements, please contact your NRCS state office programs staff to inquire about how you can partner with NRCS to enroll conservation easements on eligible land.


The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) helps landowners, land trusts, and other entities protect, restore, and enhance wetlands, grasslands, and working farms and ranches through conservation easements. Under the Agricultural Land Easements component, NRCS helps American Indian tribes, state and local governments and&#x2004;non-governmental organizations protect working agricultural lands and limit non-agricultural uses of the land. 


### Benefits

Agricultural Land Easements protect the long-term viability of the nation’s food supply by preventing conversion of productive working lands to non-agricultural uses. Land protected by agricultural land easements provides additional public benefits, including environmental quality, historic preservation, wildlife habitat and protection of open space.


### Agricultural Land Easements 

NRCS provides financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing Agricultural Land Easements that protect the agricultural use and conservation values of eligible land. In the case of working farms, the program helps farmers and ranchers keep their land in agriculture. The program also protects grazing uses and related conservation values by conserving grassland, including rangeland, pastureland and shrubland. Eligible partners include American Indian tribes, state and local governments and non-governmental organizations that have farmland, rangeland or grassland protection programs.


ACEP also provides Easements to protect Wetlands through the [ACEP Water Reserve Easement sub-program](https://ambrook.com/funding/acep-wre).



The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) helps landowners, land trusts, and other entities protect, restore, and enhance wetlands, grasslands, and working farms and ranches through conservation easements. Under the Agricultural Land Easements component, NRCS helps American Indian tribes, state and local governments and non-governmental organizations protect working agricultural lands and limit non-agricultural uses of the land. 

Benefits
Agricultural Land Easements protect the long-term viability of the nation’s food supply by preventing conversion of productive working lands to non-agricultural uses. Land protected by agricultural land easements provides additional public benefits, including environmental quality, historic preservation, wildlife habitat and protection of open space.

Agricultural Land Easements 
NRCS provides financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing Agricultural Land Easements that protect the agricultural use and conservation values of eligible land. In the case of working farms, the program helps farmers and ranchers keep their land in agriculture. The program also protects grazing uses and related conservation values by conserving grassland, including rangeland, pastureland and shrubland. Eligible partners include American Indian tribes, state and local governments and non-governmental organizations that have farmland, rangeland or grassland protection programs.

ACEP also provides Easements to protect Wetlands through the ACEP Water Reserve Easement sub-program.

Eligible Landowners
- Eligible partners include American Indian tribes, state and local governments and non-governmental organizations that have farmland, rangeland or grassland protection programs. 
- Eligible landowners include owners of privately held land including land that is held by tribes and tribal members.
- All landowners, including required members of landowner-legal entities, must meet adjusted gross income (AGI) limitations and must be compliant with the HEL/WC provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985.

Eligible Land
Land eligible for agricultural easements includes private or Tribal land that is agricultural land, cropland, rangeland, grassland, pastureland and nonindustrial private forest land. NRCS will prioritize applications that protect agricultural uses and related conservation values of the land and those that maximize the protection of contiguous acres devoted to agricultural use, including land on a farm or ranch.
Eligible Land Types and which also meets one of the four following land eligibility criteria:
1. Parcels enrolled to protect Prime, Unique, or Other productive soil.
2. Parcels enrolled to provide protection of grazing uses and related conservation values.
3. Parcels containing historical or archeological resources.
4. Land that furthers a state or local policy consistent with the purposes of ACEP-ALE.

Payment per unit of land to do or avoid certain practices related to land management.

Easement

A payment that requires some percentage of matching contributions by the recipient.

Cost Share

- Farmland Protection Directory     
- Land Trust Alliance    
- Options for Integrating Minimum Deed Terms
- Minimum Deed Terms With Commentary

Air Quality

Carbon Capture

Certification

High Tunnel

Landscape

Regenerative

Soil Health

Wildlife & Pollinator Habitat

Stewardship

Agritourism

Certified Organic

Certified Grassfed

Cover Crops

Reduced Tillage

Water Management

Conservation

NRCS provides financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing Agricultural Land Easements that protect the agricultural use and conservation values of eligible land.
For working farms, the program helps farmers and ranchers keep their land in agriculture. Under the Agricultural Land Easement component, NRCS may contribute up to 50 percent of the fair market value of the agricultural land easement.
The program also protects grazing uses and related conservation values by conserving grassland, including rangeland, pastureland and shrubland. Where NRCS determines that grasslands of special environmental significance will be protected, NRCS may contribute up to 75 percent of the fair market value of the agricultural land easement.
Agricultural Land Easements are permanent or for the maximum term allowed by law.

Landowners - to learn more about both ALE and WRE, contact your local NRCS office. An NRCS conservationist will visit you and evaluate your land to help you determine eligibility for the various components of ACEP. If your land is eligible for ALE and you are looking for an eligible entity to hold your conservation easement; please visit
- https://farmlandinfo.org/farmland-protection-directory/     
- https://www.findalandtrust.org/     
Eligible Entities - to learn more about Agricultural Land Easements, please contact your NRCS state office programs staff to inquire about how you can partner with NRCS to enroll conservation easements on eligible land.

The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) helps landowners, land trusts, and other entities protect, restore, and enhance wetlands, grasslands, and working farms and ranches through&#x2004;conservation easements. Under the Wetlands Reserve Easements component, NRCS helps to restore, protect and enhance enrolled wetlands.


**Benefits: ** Wetland Reserve Easements provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, protect biological diversity and provide opportunities for educational, scientific and limited recreational activities.


**Related Programs: ** ACEP also provides Easements to protect Agricultural Land through the [ACEP Agricultural Land Easement Program](https://ambrook.com/funding/acep-ale), and additional wetland protection through the [Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership](https://ambrook.com/funding/wrep).



The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) helps landowners, land trusts, and other entities protect, restore, and enhance wetlands, grasslands, and working farms and ranches through conservation easements. Under the Wetlands Reserve Easements component, NRCS helps to restore, protect and enhance enrolled wetlands.

Benefits: Wetland Reserve Easements provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, protect biological diversity and provide opportunities for educational, scientific and limited recreational activities.

Related Programs: ACEP also provides Easements to protect Agricultural Land through the ACEP Agricultural Land Easement Program, and additional wetland protection through the Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership.

Eligible Landowners
- Owners of privately held land including land that is held by American Indian tribes.
- All landowners, including required members of landowner-legal entities, must meet adjusted gross income (AGI) limitations and must be compliant with the HEL/WC provisions of the Food Security Act of 1985.

Eligible Land
1. Land eligible for wetland reserve easements includes privately held farmed or converted wetland that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored. NRCS will prioritize applications based the easement’s potential for protecting and enhancing habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife.

- ACEP Fact Sheet
- Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP)
- Farmland Protection Directory     
- Land Trust Alliance    

To enroll land through wetland reserve easements, NRCS enters into purchase agreements with eligible private landowners or Indian tribes that include the right for NRCS to develop and implement a Wetland Reserve Plan of Operations (WRPO). This plan will detail practices to help restore, protect and enhance the wetlands functions and values.
Wetland Reserve enrollment options include:
- Permanent Easements – Permanent easements are conservation easements in perpetuity. NRCS pays 100 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the easement. Additionally, NRCS pays between 75 to 100 percent of the restoration costs.
- 30-year Easements – 30-year easements expire after 30 years. Under 30-year easements, NRCS pays 50 to 75 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the easement. Additionally, NRCS pays between 50 to 75 percent of the restoration costs. 
- Term Easements - Term easements are easements that are for the maximum duration allowed under applicable State laws. NRCS pays 50 to 75 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the term easement. Additionally, NRCS pays between 50 to 75 percent of the restoration costs.
- 30-year Contracts – 30-year contracts are only available to enroll acreage owned by Indian tribes and program payment rates are commensurate with 30-year easements.
For all Wetland Reserve Easements options, NRCS pays all costs associated with recording the easement in the local land records office, including recording fees, charges for abstracts, survey and appraisal fees and title insurance.

Applications are submitted by email to Rae Villa, ALB Industry Relations Director, at rae@americanlamb.com. ALB's published FY 2026 submission window ran from October 2025 through May 2026, for events between November 2025 and May 2026.

Application process:

1. Submit a summary proposal (two pages max, single-spaced, 12-point font) describing the program including intended outcomes and deliverables and the strategy to connect consumers to where to buy American Lamb in the local market; how the proposed program will assist the Lamb Checkoff in addressing its mission of increasing demand for American Lamb and how the program will acknowledge checkoff funding; and the timeline and estimated budget including the 50% match.
2. Review and interviews — a review committee evaluates eligibility and potential impact on the ALB priorities and may request an interview with the applicant prior to making a decision.
3. Finalize contract and program details — ALB works with successful applicants to finalize their proposals based on the review committee's recommendations. The proposal becomes part of the formal contract that is reviewed and approved by USDA.

Full program guidelines and application process: https://lambboard.com/s/ALBNewPromoFunds102725_FINAL2.pdf

Rae Villa

Industry Relations Director

American Lamb Board office

The American Lamb Board (ALB) has allocated $50,000 for FY 2026 to support local consumer-facing events and industry-branded promotions. ALB will review proposals on a rolling basis throughout the year from industry partners and suppliers who aim to build awareness and demand for American Lamb through promotional events, marketing, and retail or foodservice initiatives.


What ALB will fund:


- Local consumer-facing promotional events (cooking classes, on-farm tours and demonstrations, activations at local festivals)

- Development&#x2004;of branded marketing materials (e.g., websites, signage, sales tools)

- Branded retail or foodservice promotions (in-store sampling, incentives and contests, advertising, educational events and trade shows, etc.)


What ALB will not fund:


- Industry-facing events including conventions and meetings (contact Rae in the Lamb Board office to discuss industry-facing opportunities)

- Equipment and staffing

- Any event or activity that involves influencing government policy or action


This is the successor to ALB's earlier Cooperative Funding Program, which cost-shared marketing efforts by local sheep producer groups, lamb suppliers and direct marketers.



The American Lamb Board (ALB) has allocated $50,000 for FY 2026 to support local consumer-facing events and industry-branded promotions. ALB will review proposals on a rolling basis throughout the year from industry partners and suppliers who aim to build awareness and demand for American Lamb through promotional events, marketing, and retail or foodservice initiatives.

What ALB will fund:

- Local consumer-facing promotional events (cooking classes, on-farm tours and demonstrations, activations at local festivals)
- Development of branded marketing materials (e.g., websites, signage, sales tools)
- Branded retail or foodservice promotions (in-store sampling, incentives and contests, advertising, educational events and trade shows, etc.)

What ALB will not fund:

- Industry-facing events including conventions and meetings (contact Rae in the Lamb Board office to discuss industry-facing opportunities)
- Equipment and staffing
- Any event or activity that involves influencing government policy or action

This is the successor to ALB's earlier Cooperative Funding Program, which cost-shared marketing efforts by local sheep producer groups, lamb suppliers and direct marketers.

Program requirements:

- The applicant must be a lamb checkoff contributor or represent an industry organization, direct marketer or company that pays the lamb checkoff.
- The application must be received no later than 30 days prior to the event or activity to allow for approvals.
- All promotional materials must be reviewed and approved by USDA and require checkoff funding acknowledgement.
- Funds can only be used to promote American Lamb and it should be available in the local market where the promotion is being executed.
- ALB will only cover lamb product costs up to $10/lb.
- All programs require a 50% funding match.
- An itemized invoice with receipts and final report must be submitted prior to payment.

Lambs

Ground Lamb

Lamb Chops

Lamb Heart

Lamb Leg

Lamb Liver

Lamb Shank

Lamb Shoulder

Lamb Stew Meat

Sheep

Livestock

- ALB funding page: https://lambboard.com/funding
- FY 2026 program guidelines and application process (PDF): https://lambboard.com/s/ALBNewPromoFunds102725_FINAL2.pdf
- ALB announcement (Oct 9, 2025): https://lambboard.com/weekly-news/unlock-opportunities-in-2026-the-american-lamb-board-announces-funding-for-promotions-and-research
- ALB reminder article (Mar 26, 2026): https://lambboard.com/weekly-news/alb-funding-opportunities-available-for-fairs-festivals-farmers-markets-amp-education

Distribution

Diversification

Events

Trade Show

Trade Relief

Marketing

Recreation

A 50% funding match is required on all programs. ALB will only cover lamb product costs up to $10/lb. Applications must be received at least 30 days before the event or activity. All promotional materials must be reviewed and approved by USDA and must acknowledge checkoff funding. An itemized invoice with receipts and a final report must be submitted prior to payment. Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Proposition 68 funding is closed - the Conservancy is no longer accepting proposals but will update the program page if additional funding becomes available. To inquire about the status of a project, submit a written request specifying the project(s) of interest to prop68grants@deltaconservancy.ca.gov.

Delta Conservancy — Proposition 68 Grants

Delta Conservancy — General Office

The Community Enhancement&#x2004;Grant Program is a competitive Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy grant funded through Proposition 68 (the 2018 California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act). It funds projects that enhance Delta communities and their economic vitality, with priorities in recreation and tourism, historic and cultural preservation, and environmental education, and a focus on expanding public access to recreational opportunities. The Conservancy is currently no longer accepting proposals for Proposition 68 funding and will update the program page if additional funding becomes available.



The Community Enhancement Grant Program is a competitive Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy grant funded through Proposition 68 (the 2018 California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act). It funds projects that enhance Delta communities and their economic vitality, with priorities in recreation and tourism, historic and cultural preservation, and environmental education, and a focus on expanding public access to recreational opportunities. The Conservancy is currently no longer accepting proposals for Proposition 68 funding and will update the program page if additional funding becomes available.

Institutional applicants sponsoring qualifying community-enhancement projects in the Delta - public agencies, nonprofit organizations, tribes, and similar entities. Individual farmers do not apply directly.

A lump sum of money for a specific purpose that does not need to be paid back.

Grant

Competitive grants funded by Proposition 68 (2018) for projects that enhance Delta communities and their economic vitality; priorities include recreation and tourism, historic and cultural preservation, environmental education, and expanded public recreational access. Currently closed to new proposals.

Applications are not yet open. Eligibility and guideline details will be announced before applications open in late November 2026.

Applications will be accepted only through a secure portal on SurveyMonkey Apply; account-creation details will be published in late November. Applications are reviewed in the order received, so applying early is encouraged. The program expects to accept approximately 350 applications for review.

Airbnb and American Farmland Trust are hosting two free informational webinars on the grant and on agritourism hosting: Wednesday, October 14 at 5:00 p.m. ET, and Friday, November 13 at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Sign up for American Farmland Trust email updates to be notified when the application portal opens: https://farmland.org/sign-up

The Farm to Stay Grant Program is a partnership between Airbnb and American Farmland Trust, launched through AFT's Brighter&#x2004;Future Fund, to help farmers and ranchers create or expand farm stays and agritourism experiences as an additional income stream.


The program will distribute approximately 25–30 grants, each between $5,000 and $10,000, from a total pool of $250,000, to help farmers and ranchers renovate or prepare their properties for overnight guests or launch agritourism experiences such as farm-to-table dinners, wine tastings, apple picking, and agricultural workshops.


Eligibility and guideline details will be announced before applications open in late November 2026 through a secure portal on SurveyMonkey Apply.



The Farm to Stay Grant Program is a partnership between Airbnb and American Farmland Trust, launched through AFT's Brighter Future Fund, to help farmers and ranchers create or expand farm stays and agritourism experiences as an additional income stream.

The program will distribute approximately 25–30 grants, each between $5,000 and $10,000, from a total pool of $250,000, to help farmers and ranchers renovate or prepare their properties for overnight guests or launch agritourism experiences such as farm-to-table dinners, wine tastings, apple picking, and agricultural workshops.

Eligibility and guideline details will be announced before applications open in late November 2026 through a secure portal on SurveyMonkey Apply.

- For-profit production agriculture operations nationwide that want to develop or expand a farm stay or experience as an additional income stream connected to their working farm or ranch.
- Additional eligibility rules and allowable expenses will be announced before the application opens.

- Airbnb: 'Farm to Stay' Grant Program press release
- Airbnb Farm Stays Report (PDF)

How it works. Airbnb and American Farmland Trust are funding the Farm to Stay Grant Program through AFT's Brighter Future Fund. The program will distribute approximately 25–30 grants, with a minimum of $5,000 and up to $10,000 per recipient, from a total pool of $250,000.

Use of funds. Grants help farmers and ranchers renovate or adapt properties for hosting overnight guests, or launch new agritourism experiences such as farm-to-table dinners, wine tasting, and agricultural workshops.

Fine print. Applications are reviewed in the order received, so applying early is encouraged. The program expects to accept approximately 350 applications for the 25–30 awards. Additional eligibility rules and allowable expenses will be announced before the application opens.

Effective April 2, 2026, applications for viticulture and enology related projects are currently being accepted, however, applications for all other projects are on hold at this time. To be notified when funding becomes available for all applications, send ODAFF your contact information.

1. Download the application for your project type from the program page.
2. Email a copy of the proposal to Jason.harvey@ag.ok.gov.
3. Deadline dates for submissions are January 1st, April 1st, July 1st, and October 1st, or the next regular business day if the Department offices are closed on the deadline date.

All applications that exceed $5,000.00 in funding will have a maximum fifteen (15) minute oral presentation to the selection committee. For more information, contact Jason Harvey at Jason.harvey@ag.ok.gov or 405-606-1477.

Jason Harvey

Program Coordinator

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry's Agriculture Enhancement and Diversification Program was designed to develop or improve uses for agricultural products, expand the state's production of value-added products and to encourage diversified farming. The program provides funds in the form of grants or 0% interest&#x2004;loans.


Proposals must clearly demonstrate the ability to directly benefit Oklahoma farmers and ranchers through the creation of new revenue streams. Applications are available for five project types: Agriculture Event Grant, Farm Diversification Grant, Product Development and Research Grant or Loan, Value-Added Agriculture Grant or Loan, and Veteran or Young Farmer Grant or Loan.


Effective April 2, 2026, applications for viticulture and enology related projects are currently being accepted, however, applications for all other projects are on hold at this time.



The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry's Agriculture Enhancement and Diversification Program was designed to develop or improve uses for agricultural products, expand the state's production of value-added products and to encourage diversified farming. The program provides funds in the form of grants or 0% interest loans.

Proposals must clearly demonstrate the ability to directly benefit Oklahoma farmers and ranchers through the creation of new revenue streams. Applications are available for five project types: Agriculture Event Grant, Farm Diversification Grant, Product Development and Research Grant or Loan, Value-Added Agriculture Grant or Loan, and Veteran or Young Farmer Grant or Loan.

Effective April 2, 2026, applications for viticulture and enology related projects are currently being accepted, however, applications for all other projects are on hold at this time.

- Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and a legal resident of Oklahoma.
- Proposals must clearly demonstrate the ability to directly benefit Oklahoma farmers and ranchers through the creation of new revenue streams.
- Effective April 2, 2026, applications for viticulture and enology related projects are currently being accepted; applications for all other projects are on hold.
- Farm Diversification Grant: projects must diversify the farm or ranch to non-traditional crops or non-traditional livestock, on-farm processing of agricultural commodities or assist in the development of an agritourism venue. Projects cannot be an extension or expansion of existing operations and must show the potential to create additional income for the farm unit.
- Veteran or Young Farmer Grant or Loan: projects must be from a veteran or young farmer (45 years of age or younger) who is engaged in the creation or expansion of an agricultural farming/ranching operation or business.
- Agriculture Event Grant: a letter of support from the city or county government or the local Chamber of Commerce must accompany the application.
- Farm Diversification, Value-Added Agriculture, and Veteran or Young Farmer projects need advisors who are professionals in the field relating to the project and are willing to assist applicants in fulfilling the project goals.
- Value-Added Agriculture projects must not be for growing or any other aspect of marijuana.

A payment that must be returned to the provider following specified terms of repayment and interest rate.

Loan

Grapes

Wine

Fruits

Specialty Crops

Trials

Historically Underserved

How it works. The program provides funds in the form of grants or 0% interest loans. Upon approval of the application by the AEDP selection committee and the State Board of Agriculture, a contractual agreement between the applicant and ODAFF will be entered into and may not exceed 1 year in length. Payments will be disbursed in three (3) divisible increments based upon properly submitted invoices, compliance with the Oklahoma Agriculture Enhancement and Diversification Act and furnishing complete and comprehensive reports.

Grant levels. Farm Diversification, Product Development and Research, Value-Added Agriculture, and Veteran or Young Farmer grants are available in three levels not to exceed $10,000:

- Grants $2,500 or less require no matching funds.
- Grants $2,501 – $5,000 require 25% cash or in-kind match in funds.
- Grants $5,001 – $10,000 require a dollar-for-dollar cash match.

Loans. For Product Development and Research, Value-Added Agriculture, and Veteran or Young Farmer projects, all applications more than $10,000 will be considered as a loan.

Agriculture Event Grant. Projects should create a new agricultural event that highlights an agricultural product and creates an economic impact to the entire state or a large geographic region of the state.

- Grants $2,500 or less must show a projected economic impact up to $5,000.
- Grants $2,501 – $5,000 must show a projected economic impact of $5,001 to $75,000.
- Grants $5,001 – $50,000 must show a projected economic impact of more than $75,000.

How applications are judged. Each application evaluation shall be based on the likelihood of the proposal's success; a high probability of job and wealth creation; credibility, merit, technical, and commercial feasibility; whether the proposal can be implemented quickly with a high probability of rapid commercialization; a shared commitment for funding from other private or public sources or the applicant in the form of cash, in-kind services, or both; and centering of efforts on non-urban or rural locales.

Fine print. The Department shall not consider any portion of an application requesting funding for the purchase of real property, live animals, or motorized vehicles including, but not limited to, automobiles, sport utility vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, and utility terrain vehicles.

All applications are received on a rolling basis. Awards are determined based on a complete application and alignment of project with program goals.  
The application process follows 5 main steps:
1. Initial Application - Farm Operator submits a PSWF Application 
2. Assigned VAAFM Staff or Partner - VAAFM Staff or Partner Technical Assistance (TA) provider follow up with applicant to determine eligibility and assist with the application process and paperwork
3. Project Planning - Farm Operator, with assistance from VAAFM Staff or Partner TA provider, develops a Project Plan Map, Estimated Budget/Contractor Quotes, and a Grazing Plan as applicable. 
4. Project Review - VAAFM Program reviews project application, plan, and budget. Finalizes application paperwork with applicant. Makes an award determination and provides notification of award to Farm Operator. 
5. Grant Award - Farm Operator and VAAFM sign Grant Agreement. Project begins! 
A complete project application includes:
- Submitted Application
- Project Map 
- Project Budget 
- Grazing Plan if applicable*
- W9 
- State of Vermont Good Standing Form 
- Certificate of Liability Insurance if applicable
- Land Lease Agreement if applicable
*Applications which include rotational grazing must include a Grazing Plan. If the applicant has a full Grazing Plan developed with NRCS or a Grazing Specialist, submit that. Otherwise, use the VAAFM Grazing Plan Template, which can either be filled in on your computer or printed and filled in by hand.  A VAAFM Staff or Partner TA Provider can help you complete a grazing plan. The Grazing Plan can also be used to apply to the VAAFM Farm Agronomic Practice Program.

- Online Pasture and Surface Water Fencing Grant Application 
- Printable Pasture and Surface Water Fencing Grant Application
- VAAFM Grazing Plan Template

Prior to applying, please read the important information below:
- Submitting an application does not ensure an award.
- Grant agreements must be in place prior to the start of construction.
- Farmer is responsible for financing the project during construction and will only receive reimbursement upon certified project completion.
- Final cost share payment is determined by actual project costs as documented by itemized invoices.
- Farmer’s equipment and labor costs are eligible for reimbursement.
Contact For More Information
Connor Steckel, Agricultural Water Quality Program Coordinator/Grazing Specialist
PHONE: 802-522-0065
EMAIL: Connor.Steckel@Vermont.Gov 

Connor Steckel

The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program provides pasture management technical assistance and financial assistance to Vermont farmers to improve water quality and on-farm livestock exclusion from surface waters statewide.


### **Eligible Practices**

- Fence 

- Livestock Pipeline

- Water Source Development 

- Watering Facility 

- Improved Permanent Water Area 

- Stream Crossing 

- Electric Fence Chargers 

- Trails & Walkways





The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program provides pasture management technical assistance and financial assistance to Vermont farmers to improve water quality and on-farm livestock exclusion from surface waters statewide.

Eligible Practices
- Fence 
- Livestock Pipeline
- Water Source Development 
- Watering Facility 
- Improved Permanent Water Area 
- Stream Crossing 
- Electric Fence Chargers 
- Trails & Walkways



- Be a Vermont farm as defined in the Required Agricultural Practices
- Manage pastureland where water quality will benefit from implementation of improved pasture management and eligible and/or necessary conservation practices
- Have ownership or land control for the lifespan of the practice (10 years)
- Have an insurance policy that allows for the State and its employees and officers to be listed as additional insured

Eligible Projects:
- Fence 
- Livestock Pipeline
- Watering Facility 
- Improved Permanent Water Area 
- Stream Crossing 
- Electric Fence Chargers 
- Trails & Walkways


Cattle

Pigs

Poultry

Specialty Livestock

Beef Cattle

Dairy Cattle

Feeder Cattle

Slaughter Cattle

Calves

Heifers

Steers

Bulls

Barrows

Boars

Feeder Pigs

Hogs

Sows

Chickens

Cornish Hens

Ducks

Geese

Turkey

Ewes

Rams

Alpacas

Beefalo

Bison

Buffalo

Caribou

Deer

Emus

Goats

Guinea Pigs

Llamas

Mink

Mohair

Ostrich

Pheasants

Quail

Rabbits

Reindeer

Water Buffalo

Beef Bottom Round

Beef Brisket

Beef Chuck Roast

Beef Eye Round

Beef Flank Steak

Beef Flat Iron Steak

Beef Heart

Beef Liver

Beef London Broil

Beef NY Strip Steak

Beef Oxtail

Beef Rib Steak

Beef Rump Roast

Beef Short Ribs

Beef Sirloin

Beef Sirloin Tip Roast

Beef Skirt Steak

Beef Soup Bones

Beef Stew Meat

Beef Tongue

Beef Top Round

Beef Whole Filet

Ground Beef

Broilers

Chicks

Fryers

Layers

Pullets

Roasters

Ducklings

Goslings

Poults

Toms

Bison Calf

Bison Meat

Bucks

Nannies

Slaughter Goats

- Pasture and Surface Water Fencing Information Handout - 2025

Irrigation

Water Quality

Waterway Protection

Wetland Conservation

Infrastructure

Disaster Relief

Emergency

- The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program provides no-cost pasture management technical assistance from experienced grazing specialists
- PSWF also provides financial assistance that reimburses 90% of the cost to install infrastructure that will improve pasture management, up to the farm’s grant amount.
    - Maximum grant amount when the project has livestock exclusion from surface waters is $15,000 per farm.
    - Maximum grant amount when there is no livestock exclusion from surface waters, but where rotational grazing will be implemented or improved is $10,000 per farm. Rotational grazing requires at minimum moving livestock at least twice per week.

Partners interested in WREP are encouraged to work with their NRCS state office as part of developing the proposal. Proposals must follow ACEP criteria for Wetland Reserve Easements.
Proposals must be emailed to the NRCS state office contact listed in the local announcement by August 15, 2021.
Individual landowners interested in enrolling their land in a Wetland Reserve Easement may apply at any time at their local USDA Service Center.

Lisa McCauley

National WREP Program Manager

The Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) is a voluntary program through which NRCS enters into agreements with eligible partners to leverage resources to&#x2004;carry out high priority wetland protection, restoration, and enhancement and to improve wildlife habitat. It is part of the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component of the [Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/programs/easements/acep/?cid=stelprdb1242695), a Farm Bill conservation program.


**Program at a Glance:**


Through WREP, state agencies, county and local governments, non-governmental organizations and American Indian tribes are encouraged to submit proposals for priority project areas to collaborate with NRCS through program and partnership agreements. Once a proposal is accepted for funding the partners work with tribal and private landowners who voluntarily enroll eligible land into easements to protect, restore and enhance wetlands on their properties.


The voluntary nature of NRCS easement programs enables effective integration of wetland restoration on working landscapes, providing benefits to farmers and ranchers who enroll in the program, as well as benefits to the communities where the wetlands exist. Easements enable landowners to adopt a variety of conservation practices with the help of funding from NRCS that improve the function and condition of wetlands.


**Benefits:**


Wetland Reserve Easements protect important wetlands within an agricultural landscape, provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, protect biological diversity and provide opportunities for educational, scientific and limited recreational activities.


Partner benefits through WREP agreements include:

- Wetland restoration and protection in areas where priorities align to enable greater impacts on the landscape;

- Ability to cost-share restoration or enhancement beyond NRCS requirements through leveraging;

- Ability to provide in-kind staff capacity for acquisition, due diligence and restoration activities.


**Ranking Considerations:**


NRCS will prioritize applications for projects that:

- Provide maximum partner resources as match;

- Support the goals and objectives of an NRCS Landscape Conservation Initiatives;

- Protect habitat that benefits migratory birds and wetland-dependent wildlife;

- Provide direct benefits to federal and state threatened and endangered species; and

- Include targeted outreach to underserved groups in the agricultural community.



The Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP) is a voluntary program through which NRCS enters into agreements with eligible partners to leverage resources to carry out high priority wetland protection, restoration, and enhancement and to improve wildlife habitat. It is part of the Wetland Reserve Easement (WRE) component of the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), a Farm Bill conservation program.

Program at a Glance:

Through WREP, state agencies, county and local governments, non-governmental organizations and American Indian tribes are encouraged to submit proposals for priority project areas to collaborate with NRCS through program and partnership agreements. Once a proposal is accepted for funding the partners work with tribal and private landowners who voluntarily enroll eligible land into easements to protect, restore and enhance wetlands on their properties.

The voluntary nature of NRCS easement programs enables effective integration of wetland restoration on working landscapes, providing benefits to farmers and ranchers who enroll in the program, as well as benefits to the communities where the wetlands exist. Easements enable landowners to adopt a variety of conservation practices with the help of funding from NRCS that improve the function and condition of wetlands.

Benefits:

Wetland Reserve Easements protect important wetlands within an agricultural landscape, provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species, improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals, reduce flooding, recharge groundwater, protect biological diversity and provide opportunities for educational, scientific and limited recreational activities.

Partner benefits through WREP agreements include:
- Wetland restoration and protection in areas where priorities align to enable greater impacts on the landscape;
- Ability to cost-share restoration or enhancement beyond NRCS requirements through leveraging;
- Ability to provide in-kind staff capacity for acquisition, due diligence and restoration activities.

Ranking Considerations:

NRCS will prioritize applications for projects that:
- Provide maximum partner resources as match;
- Support the goals and objectives of an NRCS Landscape Conservation Initiatives;
- Protect habitat that benefits migratory birds and wetland-dependent wildlife;
- Provide direct benefits to federal and state threatened and endangered species; and
- Include targeted outreach to underserved groups in the agricultural community.

Through WREP, under the Wetlands Reserve Easements component of ACEP, partners work with NRCS to help restore, protect and enhance enrolled wetlands directly with private landowners and Indian tribes through the purchase of an NRCS Wetland Reserve Easement. Eligible lands, which include farmed or converted wetland habitat that can be successfully and cost-effectively restored, may be enrolled under permanent easements, 30-year easements, or 30-year contracts (for acreage owned by Indian Tribes). For lands enrolled through wetland easements, NRCS will also develop and implement a Wetland Reserve Easement restoration plan that will restore, protect, and enhance the wetland’s functions and values.

Partner contributions must equal at least 10 percent of the total estimated costs for easement acquisition related costs and restoration implementation costs. Proposals that provide partner contributions greater than 10 percent will be given higher consideration in the selection process.

Landowner side — Wetland Reserve Easements, the component WREP enrolls land into. NRCS buys the easement and pays most of the restoration; there is no published dollar ceiling per landowner because easement value is appraised per property.

- "Permanent Easements – Permanent easements are conservation easements in perpetuity. NRCS pays 100 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the easement. Additionally, NRCS pays between 75 to 100 percent of the restoration costs."
- "30-year Easements – 30-year easements expire after 30 years. Under 30-year easements, NRCS pays 50 to 75 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the easement. Additionally, NRCS pays between 50 to 75 percent of the restoration costs."
- "Term Easements - Term easements are easements that are for the maximum duration allowed under applicable State laws. NRCS pays 50 to 75 percent of the easement value for the purchase of the term easement. Additionally, NRCS pays between 50 to 75 percent of the restoration costs."
- "30-year Contracts – 30-year contracts are only available to enroll acreage owned by Indian tribes and program payment rates are commensurate with 30-year easements."

NRCS also writes and implements the restoration plan: "For lands enrolled through wetland easements, NRCS will also develop and implement a Wetland Reserve Easement restoration plan."

Partner side — the WREP agreement itself. Partners (state/county/local governments, NGOs, tribes) bring match: "Partner contributions must equal at least 10 percent of the total estimated costs for easement acquisition related costs and restoration implementation costs. Proposals that provide partner contributions greater than 10 percent will be given higher consideration in the selection process." Partners also get the "Ability to cost-share restoration or enhancement beyond NRCS requirements through leveraging" and to provide in-kind staff capacity.

Applications are submitted to mboeder@nd.gov or mailed to: North Dakota Department of Agriculture, APUC, 600 E Boulevard Ave Dept 602, Bismarck, ND 58505-0020.

The first 15 qualifying applications each quarter receive invitations to present proposals to the Commission. Applicants are evaluated on a 100-point scale emphasizing job creation, scientific merit, commercialization potential, matching funds, and geographic factors.

Matthew Boeder

The Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC) creates new wealth through the development of new and expanded uses of North Dakota's agricultural products through a grant program. Eligible applicants are North Dakota companies that add value to North Dakota agriculture.



- North Dakota companies that add value to North Dakota agriculture.
- Eligible applicant types are companies registered with the North Dakota Secretary of State, higher education agencies, groups, and individuals.
- Company applicants must hold a North Dakota Secretary of State corporate registration (in-state) or Certificate of Authority (out-of-state).
- Companies based outside North Dakota must have an established relationship with a North Dakota partner.
- The project must develop or market agriculture-based products or services that add value to North Dakota agriculture.
- Applicants may generally hold only one APUC grant at a time.
- Applicants with uncompleted prior APUC projects, including an outstanding final accountability report, are precluded from new funding unless fully justified.
- Applications must be signed by a fiscal agent as well as the applicant.

Grants are available across six categories: Basic and Applied Research; Marketing and Utilization; Farm Diversification; Technical Assistance; Nature Based Agri-Tourism; and Prototype Development and Technology. Application deadlines for 2026–2027 are October 1, 2026; January 1, 2027; April 1, 2027; July 1, 2027; and October 1, 2027, each followed by a Commission meeting.

Apply through the DNREC Community Environmental Project Fund page when DNREC announces availability.

Antonio Bivins

Environmental Justice Office Community Ombudsman

The Community Environmental Project Fund (CEPF), administered by DNREC's Environmental Justice office, awards grants funded by penalty settlements to support community environmental projects that mitigate pollution, enhance the environment, or create recreational opportunities.



IRS tax-exempt organizations are eligible for up to $25,000. These include civic and community organizations, educational institutions, counties, municipal governments, state agencies, and quasi-state agencies that represent the community where the infraction(s) or violation(s) occurred.

Grants of up to $25,000 are funded by environmental penalty settlements. Eligible projects must mitigate pollution, enhance the environment, or create recreational opportunities.

List of Agricultural Funding for Recreation