Funding available for agricultural conservation

SYRACUSE, NY — The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has up to $250,000 in available funding for new technology under the Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) Program. CIG provides farmers with the opportunity, through innovative approaches, to address some of the state’s most pressing natural resource conservation needs.

State, tribal, and local governmental entities, non-governmental organizations and individuals may apply. Project proposals should demonstrate the use of innovative technologies or approaches to address a natural resource concern.

Selected applicants may receive grants up to 50 percent of the total project cost, not to exceed $75,000. Applicants must provide nonfederal matching funds for at least 50 percent of the project cost, of which 50 percent may be from in-kind contributions. Projects may be single or multi year, not to exceed three years.

Applications are due in the New York NRCS State Office by May 29. Project proposals will be evaluated with the assistance of the State Technical Committee.

For more information visit ny.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/ or call 315/477-6503.