Municipal Agriculture and Farmland Protection Planning Grants

The Municipal Agriculture and Farmland Protection Planning Grants program is administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets to support municipalities in developing comprehensive plans that protect agricultural lands and sustain the long-term viability of farming within the state. Authorized under Article 25-AAA of the Agriculture and Markets Law, the program is designed to provide financial and technical assistance to local governments, enabling them to create structured approaches to farmland preservation while balancing development pressures. The Department’s broader mission includes maintaining the economic vitality of agriculture, preserving environmental resources, and supporting land use practices that benefit both rural and urban communities. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to assist municipalities in preparing agricultural and farmland protection plans that address land use, zoning, and subdivision regulations in a manner that does not unnecessarily restrict farm operations. These plans are expected to identify key agricultural lands, assess threats such as development pressure, and propose strategies that ensure continued agricultural use. The program emphasizes the importance of aligning municipal planning with broader state and county agricultural objectives, while also incorporating local conditions and priorities. Funding through this program supports a range of planning-related activities. Eligible costs include personnel services such as professional, legal, and administrative support; consultant services; travel expenses at state-approved rates; public engagement activities like hearings; and materials such as printing and communications. However, costs incurred prior to the official award of funding are not eligible for reimbursement. Projects funded under this program must result in the creation of a municipal agricultural and farmland protection plan and be completed within a 24-month period following contract approval. The program requires a cost-sharing component from applicants. Municipalities must provide a 25 percent match, which may consist of both cash and in-kind contributions, with at least 20 percent of the match provided as cash. In-kind contributions may include labor, materials, or equipment directly related to the project. Applicants must document their matching funds through formal municipal resolutions or equivalent official documentation. The program allows for collaborative applications, enabling two municipalities to apply jointly, with one designated as the lead entity. Eligibility is limited to New York State municipalities, including cities, towns, and villages, that are located within counties that have established agricultural and farmland protection boards. Additionally, municipalities that have not previously completed an agricultural and farmland protection plan are specifically eligible for funding. The application process is conducted through the New York State Grants Gateway, where applicants must submit all required documentation, including project descriptions, budgets, timelines, and evidence of matching funds. Applications are reviewed for completeness and evaluated based on criteria such as demonstrated need, quality of the proposed work plan, qualifications of project personnel, and cost-effectiveness. The program operates on an open enrollment basis, with applications accepted on a rolling basis and awards announced biannually beginning in April 2022. The Department aims to make funding decisions within 90 days of receiving a complete application. Applicants are encouraged to submit questions in writing to the designated program contact prior to submission, and all clarifications are published publicly. Following award, recipients enter into a formal contract with the state and must comply with reporting requirements, including quarterly progress reports and a final report detailing project outcomes. The program does not specify a fixed deadline, reflecting its ongoing availability and commitment to supporting municipal planning efforts over time.

Ensure strong justification of agricultural protection need and align plan with state objectives demonstrate qualified personnel and realistic budget