Download - CCW Conference: Volk on ag financing
Leveraging Funding for Agricultural Conservation Practices
in Delaware
Jennifer VolkUniversity of Delaware
Environmental Quality Extension Specialist
4th Annual Choose Clean Water ConferenceJune 4, 2013
Agriculture in Delaware’s
portion of the Chesapeake
Ag contributes ~80% of the pollutants
Stream and Wetland Restoration Projects
• Blend funding sources and utilize partnerships – US Natural Resources Conservation Service– US Fish and Wildlife Service– Department of Natural Resources and Environmental
Control (DNREC)– Department of Agriculture– County Conservation Districts– Non-profit groups
• Ducks Unlimited• The Nature Conservancy
– School groups– Private contractors
Gravelly Branch Restoration Project
• Reconnected channelized stream to floodplain• Federal, state, and local partners
Federal funds
State-owned lands
Multiple agencies
design and construct
Tax ditch organization
Webber Farm Restoration Project
• 66.3% State funds • 26.4% National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant • 7.3% Non-Point Source Program funds
Webber Farm Restoration Project
“Whole Farm Water Management”• 1 acre demonstration wetland filters water draining from
production area with 6 poultry houses, supportive structures, and 55 acres of cropland
Cover Crops• 4 similar but separate cost share programs
Sussex Conservation District FY2013 Funds• DNREC Conservation Cost Share (state)• DNREC Nonpoint Source Program (federal)• General Assembly Bond Bill (state)• USDA NRCS (federal)• DNREC Watershed Assessment Section (federal)• Department of Agriculture (state)
Cover Crops
Participation impacted by:• Funding• Weather conditions• Policies
Strategic Watershed Action Team Program
NRCS grant to have SWAT planners write Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans for poultry producers • DNREC and County Conservation Districts also contributed cash and in-
kind services– 2 planners– 2 years– 112 CNMPs– 10 outreach/education events