South Fork Focus Zone Irrigated Acreage Retirement Program
The South Fork Focus Zone Irrigated Acreage Retirement Program funds permanent retirement of irrigated land to help Colorado meet interstate water obligations and conserve water resources.
Funder: Colorado Water Conservation Board
Due Dates: Rolling (until funds are obligated) | December 31, 2029 (final execution deadline)
Funding Amounts: $750 per irrigated acre retired; total program funding is $6 million
Summary: Supports permanent retirement of irrigated acreage in Colorado’s South Fork Focus Zone to meet interstate water obligations.
Key Information: Applicants must participate in a base program and secure a positive recommendation from the Republican River Water Conservation District.
Description
This grant program provides financial incentives to eligible landowners for the permanent retirement of irrigated acreage within Colorado's South Fork Focus Zone, helping the state fulfill its legal obligation to retire 25,000 acres under an interstate water agreement with Kansas and Nebraska. The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) administers a $6 million appropriation, offering $750 per acre retired, to facilitate the retirement of the remaining eligible irrigated land by the end of 2029. The program is designed as a supplement to federal and local conservation programs and requires coordination with the Republican River Water Conservation District (RRWCD).
