Soil & Water Conservation Program

Soil & Water Conservation Program

This program is funded by a combination of State and local dollars for conservation practices such as terraces, waterways, grass/tree establishment, planned grazing systems, etc.

Sign-Up

Submit applications in person between January 1 and April 1 each year at your local Natural Resources Conservation Service

Priorities & Approval

Highest priority for approval is given to work that may be completed between July 1 and October 1 (fall harvest crop fields not eligible)
Second priority is fall work, contingent on available funds

Eligible Practices (by priority)

  1. Establishing cool or warm season grasses on cropland and/or establishment of trees/shrubs
  2. New terrace, waterway, and underground outlet systems on cropland without existing terraces or structural practices.
  3. Planned grazing systems (cross fencing, livestock water dugouts, livestock well or water pipeline or water tank installation, spring development) – planned grazing system plan on at least 35 acres
  4. Renovation or replacement of terrace, waterway, and underground outlet system
  5. Grade stabilization structures with less than 10 feet of drop and no permanent pool.

Funding & Deadlines

  • Up to $14,000 per landowner; 50% cost-share based on the actual cost or current cost-share docket, whichever is less
  • 60 working days are allowed for most terraces, waterways, and diversions; other practices have varying deadlines but generally not later than June 1