Municipal Agriculture and Farmland Protection Planning Grants
Supports NY municipalities in creating science-based plans to protect farmland and agricultural viability through improved zoning, land use, and local policy development.
Funder: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets
Due Dates: Rolling
Funding Amounts: Up to $25,000 per municipality (or $50,000 for joint applications); covers up to 75% of project costs; projects must be completed within 24 months.
Summary: Supports New York municipalities in developing local agricultural and farmland protection plans to preserve agricultural lands through zoning, land use, and subdivision regulations.
Key Information: Minimum 20% of the local match must be cash; only municipalities without a prior plan are eligible.
Description
This grant program assists New York State municipalities—including cities, towns, and villages—in creating local agricultural and farmland protection plans. The goal is to help municipalities develop thoughtful strategies to preserve agricultural land, ensure that local laws do not unreasonably restrict farming operations, and balance agricultural needs with development pressures. Plans should address zoning, land use, subdivision regulations, and other local policies impacting agriculture. Collaborative applications between two municipalities are encouraged.
