Biologically Integrated Farming Systems Program
Forecasted
Biologically Integrated Farming Systems Program supports scientists, farmers, and consultants in demonstrating farming systems that reduce chemical pesticide use while maintaining crop yields and quality.
Funder: California Department of Food and Agriculture
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Concept proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1 million per project; $2 million total for two projects, approximately four years
Summary: Supports demonstrations and outreach of biologically integrated farming systems that reduce chemical pesticides while maintaining crop yields and quality.
Key Information: Project leads and their institutions must be based in California; out-of-state collaborators are allowed.
Description
The Biologically Integrated Farming Systems (BIFS) program is administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Office of Pesticide Consultation & Analysis (OPCA), within the Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability. It funds demonstration, refinement, and outreach of innovative, biologically integrated plant-based farming systems that reduce chemical pesticide inputs. Projects emphasize economical and effective biological and cultural pest management while maintaining growers’ yields and crop quality.
The program supports California’s Sustainable Pest Management (SPM) Roadmap through research, technical assistance, alignment of pest control advisors with SPM, and reduced economic risk for transitioning growers. Its focus is moving away from non-selective, biologically disruptive pesticides, especially those of high regulatory concern. On-farm demonstrations, collaborative outreach, and monitoring of biological and economic outcomes are typical project components.
