Major Grants for the Study of PFAS in Agricultural Systems
Forecasted
Major Grants for the Study of PFAS in Agricultural Systems, Round 2 supports researchers studying PFAS movement, impacts, and management to help farmers maintain viable operations on contaminated land.
This grant was recently updated
Round 2 is now listed as closed, with its RFA provided for reference only. DACF anticipates the next research RFA in fall or winter 2026.
Funder: Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (Application) | November 2027 (Mandatory pre-proposal)
Funding Amounts: $100,000–$500,000 per project for 24 months; $3 million anticipated for Round 2
Summary: Supports research on PFAS movement, impacts, and management to help farmers maintain viable operations on contaminated land.
Key Information: A mandatory pre-proposal is required for a full proposal to be considered.
Description
The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) administers this research program through the Fund to Address PFAS Contamination. Major Grants support multi-year research that helps commercial farmers make informed decisions about agricultural property affected by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), with an emphasis on maintaining and enhancing farm viability.
Research priorities cover PFAS fate and transport in agricultural soil, water, and plants; uptake and movement through livestock, poultry, pollinators, and animal products; and practical on-farm management. Relevant work includes transfer-factor studies, feed additives, alternative crops, soil and crop management, decision-support tools, and treatment or disposal of contaminated agricultural byproducts. The program emphasizes research with practical benefits for Maine agricultural producers.
