California Farmland Conservancy Program
The California Farmland Conservancy Program funds conservation easements and land improvements to protect, enhance, and sustain California’s agricultural lands and rural communities.
Funder: California Department of Conservation
Due Dates: Rolling (Pre-proposals & Applications accepted any time)
Funding Amounts: No maximum award; typical grants fund easement acquisition (plus up to $60,000 in associated costs and up to $10,000 for management/carbon farm plans); Land Improvement grants require at least 10% match.
Summary: Supports acquisition of agricultural conservation easements and land improvement projects to protect and enhance California’s agricultural lands.
Key Information: Pre-proposal submission is mandatory before a full application will be considered.
Description
The California Farmland Conservancy Program (CFCP) provides funding to protect agricultural lands across California through two main project types: (1) acquisition of permanent agricultural conservation easements on threatened farmland, and (2) land improvement projects that enhance the sustainability and viability of agricultural land already protected under easement or long-term conservation agreement. The program aims to encourage long-term stewardship, prevent farmland conversion, support rural economies, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. CFCP is funded by Proposition 68 and prioritizes projects that benefit disadvantaged and severely disadvantaged communities, as well as socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.
