Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program
Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program supports Vermont farmers with grazing guidance and pasture infrastructure to improve water quality through livestock exclusion and rotational grazing.
Funder: Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets
Due Dates: Rolling (Applications)
Funding Amounts: 90% reimbursement, up to $15,000 per farm; up to $20,000 total with approved exclusion-fence funding
Summary: Supports Vermont farmers with no-cost grazing guidance and pasture infrastructure that improves water quality and excludes livestock from surface waters.
Key Information: A signed grant agreement is required before construction, and farmers must finance construction until certified completion.
Description
The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program combines pasture management technical assistance with financial support for Vermont farms statewide. Administered by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets (VAAFM), it supports conservation practices that improve water quality by excluding livestock from surface waters or implementing rotational grazing plans.
Experienced grazing specialists provide no-cost pasture management guidance. Agency staff and partner technical assistance providers help farmers determine eligibility and develop project maps, budgets, and grazing plans where applicable. Supported infrastructure includes fencing, livestock pipelines, watering facilities, improved permanent water areas, stream crossings, electric fence chargers, and trails and walkways. The program connects grazing management planning with practical infrastructure improvements on pastureland where water quality will benefit.
