(Organic pepper plants with drip irrigation system courtesy of Diyana Dimitrova)
Note as of 12/19/2023 – CDFA is pausing the SWEEP solicitation. Please refer to the SWEEP website for further updates: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/sweep/
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is now accepting applications from farmers and ranchers for the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP), a competitive grant program that incentivizes farmers to invest in irrigation water and energy efficiency.
Agricultural operations can apply for up to $200,000 for projects that save water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The application window will end on Friday, January 26, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. PST.
Projects funded through SWEEP commonly include technologies such as soil, plant, or weather sensors; micro-irrigation systems; pump retrofits or replacements; renewable energy; and variable frequency drives.
Help is available from CDFA-contracted entities that provide no-cost application assistance to farmers who would like to apply for a SWEEP award. See the list of CDFA-contracted technical assistance providers across California at the CDFA website.
CDFA will award at least 25 percent of funding to projects submitted by underserved farmers and ranchers.
“Amid unpredictable and extreme swings in weather, water conservation remains a top priority here in California,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “These investments also facilitate greenhouse gas reductions as well as adaptation strategies for farmers and ranchers contending with climate change impacts.”
Potential applicants can find more information including the application form by visiting the SWEEP webpage at https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/oefi/sweep.
***
Adapted from a news release issued by CDFA December 5, 2023.
