Technical assistance grant money available for Climate Smart Ag programs

The California Department of Food and Agriculture is soliciting applications for technical assistance grants for Climate Smart Agriculture programss.The grants are for organizations that can provide assistance to applicants to the CSA programs.Nonprofit organizations, California academic institutions and California Resource Conservation Districts are eligible to apply.The three CSA programs are: State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP), Healthy Soils Program (HSP), and Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP). The programs are designed to boost climate resiliency through water conservation, soil health improvement and water quality protections.“There is a significant need for technical assistance to support our Climate Smart Agriculture activities,” CDFA Secretary Karen Ross said in a news release. “I am pleased to offer another solicitation so our farmers and ranchers can get the technical help they need in calculating the required greenhouse gases and water savings.”Applicants may receive up to $60,000, depending on the number of programs and funding cycles. Applications must be submitted by email to cdfa.oefi@cdfa.ca.govno later than Nov. 30. Grants will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis.