RFP 0397 - Farmland Protection Staff Capacity Grants Pilot Program
This grant funds staff positions at New York organizations to accelerate planning and implementation of farmland protection and agricultural conservation easement projects.
Funder: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Due Dates: May 1, 2026 (Questions deadline) | June 26, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $300,000 per award; $1,000,000 total program funding; project duration up to 4 years (3 years active + contracting period).
Summary: Supports staff hiring or expansion for local governments, soil & water districts, and conservation organizations to accelerate farmland protection projects in New York.
Key Information: Only one staff position may be funded per proposal; no match required but encouraged.
Description
This program provides funding for counties, municipalities, soil and water conservation districts, and not-for-profit conservation organizations in New York State to hire their first dedicated staff member or expand existing staff capacity to initiate or accelerate farmland protection projects. The goal is to strengthen local and regional organizations' ability to plan and implement agricultural conservation easement projects, helping to preserve viable agricultural land throughout the state. Funding can be used for hiring new staff or expanding current positions, with eligible costs including salary, benefits, and limited supplies directly related to the work plan.
