Source Water Buffer Program
This program provides funding to support the establishment of protective vegetated buffers on farmland near critical water sources in New York State, helping to safeguard public drinking water and improve water quality.
The Source Water Buffer Program, administered by the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee in coordination with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, aims to protect public drinking water and enhance water quality. The program funds conservation easements and projects to establish riparian buffers on farmland bordering critical water sources. Approximately $5 million is available from the Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017 to support these initiatives. Eligible projects include the purchase of conservation easements and the implementation of vegetated or forested buffers to filter runoff and protect water quality in New York State's aquifers, watersheds, reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and streams. Soil and Water Conservation Districts can apply on behalf of farmers who either own or lease eligible agricultural lands. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and funded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Award Range
Not specified - Not specified
Total Program Funding
$5,000,000
Number of Awards
Not specified
Matching Requirement
Yes - The State will provide a maximum of 75% of the total eligible costs for the project. The State funded contribution in dollars or percentages cannot increase because of budget changes or variations. This program requires that a minimum 25% of the total eligible costs be contributed by the landowner, operator, and/or project sponsor. This contribution may be in the form of cash, or in-kind services which are calculated using an assigned cash value. An assigned cash value provided by the landowner or operator must be reasonable and is subject to adjustment by the department. If the Project Sponsor will be contributing to the 25% match, the contribution may be in the form of in-kind services and/or cash (non-state funds). Recommended or actual hourly rates (see Appendix 2 of this RFA) may be used to determine the value of Project Sponsor in-kind services. Funds from the Source Water Buffer Program will be provided contingent upon the sponsor receiving necessary funds to provide the required match. A written commitment for other required funds or resources must be provided before the funding allocations will be finalized. Any cost overruns above the total project cost are the responsibility of the participating landowner experiencing the overrun.
Additional Details
Cost-sharing up to 75 percent for perpetual conservation easements or 50-year term easements. Funds may also be used to install or enhance vegetated or forested buffers within the easement area.
Eligible Applicants
Additional Requirements
Participating farmers must either own or lease land directly adjacent to designated drinking water sources, tributaries, wetland areas, wellhead protection areas, or aquifer sinkholes.
Geographic Eligibility
All
Application Opens
Not specified
Application Closes
Not specified
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