(From CDFA) The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) will begin accepting applications on September 29, 2014 for a second round of funding for the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP), authorized by emergency drought legislation (Senate Bill 103).
SWEEP is a unique opportunity for growers to receive financial assistance to install water distribution systems that save water and reduce greenhouse gases. Up to $150,000 will be provided directly to agricultural operations for water and energy conservation projects that benefit all Californians. The funding can support a broad range of irrigation-related projects such as pump improvements, equipment to facilitate water saving measures and other quantifiable water distribution and greenhouse gas reduction management practices.
Prospective applicants must access the “Application Guidelines” at www.cdfa.ca.go/go/SWEEP for detailed information on eligibility 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.
Growers will be able to access the FAAST application system on September 29 at 8:00 a.m. PST. Applications must be submitted electronically using FAAST by Friday November 10, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. PST.
CDFA will hold three 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. Individuals planning to attend should email grants@cdfa.ca.gov with their contact information, number of seats required and workshop location.
Application Workshop Schedule:
Fresno – October 6, 2014
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Fresno County Ag Commissioner Office
1730 S. Maple Avenue
West Wing Conference Room #1
Fresno, CA 93702
San Luis Obispo – October 8, 2014
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
San Luis Obispo County Ag Commissioner Office
Auditorium
2156 Sierra Way,
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Sacramento – October 13, 2014
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
California Department of Food and Agriculture
Auditorium
1220 N Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Webinar – October 16, 2014
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PST)
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 www.SaveOurWater.com to find out how everyone can do their part and www.Drought.CA.Gov to learn more about how California is dealing with the effects of the drought.