Agricultural operators are encouraged to apply for funding of projects involving improved water savings and energy reductions in irrigation systems
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is now accepting applications for the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP), authorized by emergency drought legislation (Senate Bill 103). An estimated $10 million in competitive grant funding will be awarded to provide financial assistance to agricultural operations for implementation of water conservation measures that result in increased water efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
“Water conservation is essential as we work our way through this drought and prepare ourselves for future challenges,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “We are pleased to offer this grant program for innovative, effective projects.”
Applicants must access the Application Guidelines for detailed information and program requirements. To streamline and expedite the application process, CDFA is partnering with the State Water Resources Control Board, which hosts an online application using the Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST). All applicants must register for a FAAST account at https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov .
Applications must be submitted electronically using FAAST by Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. PST.
CDFA will hold application workshops and one webinar to provide information on program requirements and the FAAST application process (see below). There is no cost to attend the workshops or webinar. Space is limited at each workshop location. Individuals planning to attend should email grants@cdfa.ca.gov with their contact information, number of seats required and workshop location. Upon confirmation of registration further details will be provided.
Modesto – June 18, 2014
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Stanislaus County Agricultural Center
Harvest Hall, Room G
3800 Cornucopia Way
Modesto, CA 95358
Salinas – June 19, 2014
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Monterey County Agricultural Center
1428 Abbott St.
Salinas, CA 93901
Ventura – June 25, 2014
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
County of Ventura UC Cooperative Extension
669 County Square Dr.
California Conference Rooms A & B
Ventura, CA 93003
Tulare – June 26, 2014
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office
Auditorium
4437 S Laspina
Tulare, CA 93274
Oroville – June 30, 2014
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Butte County Farm Bureau
2580 Feather River Blvd.
Oroville CA 95965
Webinar – July 8, 2014
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Webinar Information will be provided upon registration
Prospective applicants may contact CDFA’s Grants Office at grants@cdfa.ca.gov with general program questions.
Governor Brown has called on all Californians to reduce their water use by 20 percent and prevent water waste – visit SaveOurH2O.org to find out how everyone can do their part, and visit Drought.CA.Gov to learn more about how California is dealing with the effects of the drought.