Source: NCDA&CS, 11/3/15

County governments and nonprofit groups pursuing farmland preservation projects have until Dec. 18 to apply for funding assistance from the N.C. Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund. This year’s request for proposals includes statewide general appropriations of $1.6 million for traditional farm preservation projects and an additional $1 million to protect military base and training buffers.

The fund’s purpose is to support projects that encourage the preservation of qualifying agricultural, horticultural and forest lands to foster the growth, development and sustainability of family farms.

Grants can be awarded to secure agricultural conservation easements on lands used for agricultural production; to support public and private enterprise programs that promote profitable and sustainable agricultural, horticultural and forestland activities; and for the development of agricultural plans. Military designated grants are restricted to easement related projects.

“Our new partnership with the military will protect and enhance the top two economic sectors in North Carolina: agriculture and the military,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler.  “NCDA&CS and the military have signed cooperative agreements to collectively work together to protect the forestry and croplands of our great state which are also of upmost importance in the training of our brave military men and women.”

The grant application and guidelines for the current funding cycle are available at www.ncadfp.org/CycleIX.htm. Call 919-707-3072 with any questions. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Dec. 18.