For Immediate Release:
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets
Funding Available for Innovative Equipment to Improve Water Quality on Vermont Farms
$1 million will Support Farms and Vermont Clean Water Goals
September 10, 2019 | Montpelier VT – The Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) is pleased to announce that $1 million dollars in funding is available for farmers, custom applicators, non-profit organizations and phosphorus separation equipment providers through the Capital Equipment Assistance Program (CEAP). Financial assistance is available for new or used innovative equipment that will aid in the reduction of surface runoff of agricultural wastes to State waters, improve water quality of State waters, reduce odors from manure application, separate phosphorus from manure, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce costs to farmers. The following equipment categories are eligible for funding:
- Manure and Silage Management Equipment
- Cover Crop and Field Improvement Equipment
- Precision Agriculture Equipment
- Conservation Tillage Equipment
- Phosphorus Reduction, Separation, Treatment Equipment or Technology
CEAP grant applications are due by November 1, 2019 and notification of grant award will occur by February of 2020. All categories are eligible to receive state financial assistance up to 90% of eligible costs not to exceed maximum funding rates, which vary based on the type of equipment. Applicants are limited to one application per individual farm operation, organization, or entity.
“The CEAP program is important for our farmers to help make capital investments to continue improving water quality on our farms. These investments are crucial for meeting our state clean water goals. Manure injectors, precision agriculture or dissolved air flotation technologies require significant investment, but can save farmers money while improving farm nutrient management and environmental stewardship. We thank our farmers for their continued efforts and investments in this important area,” said Secretary Anson Tebbetts, Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets.
To learn more about the program requirements, or to apply please visit agriculture.vermont.gov/ceap
For questions please contact:
Nina Gage | VAAFM Water Quality Division
802-622-4098 | Nina.Gage@Vermont.gov
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Scott Waterman
Policy and Communications Director | VT Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets 802-622-4662 | scott.waterman@vermont.gov