The New York State Soil & Water Conservation Committee (SWCC) has announced funding to advance the Conservation District’s agricultural conservation goals outlined in its AEM Strategic Plan.
All farms with an AEM Tier 3 Plan or equivalent are eligible for this funding. The funding from the SWCC through AEM seeks to implement farm-specific, priority BMP systems. All BMP systems in the Agricultural Best Management Practices System Catalogue are eligible.
AEM is a voluntary, incentive-based program that helps farmers make common sense, cost-effective and science-based decisions to help meet business objectives while protecting and conserving the state’s natural resources. Farmers work with local AEM resources professionals to develop comprehensive farm plans using a tiered process.
AEM uses a five-tier voluntary approach to: keep track of current activities and potential environmental concerns; assess existing stewardship and environmental concerns; develop farm-specific conservation plans; implement the best management practices identified in the plan; update plans and conservation practices over time.
To apply for funding through the AEM program, interested farmers and landowners should contact the Monroe County Soil & Water Conservation District at 753-7380 or mcswcd@monroecounty.gov. For more information on AEM visit https://monroecountyswcd.org/page.html.
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