Dairy Plus Program

The Dairy Plus Program is administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture through its Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability. The program is designed to support California dairy operations in adopting advanced manure management practices that address environmental challenges associated with dairy production. The initiative builds on a broader federal and state collaboration, including funding from the United States Department of Agriculture under the Advancing Markets for Producers initiative. This partnership reflects a coordinated effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve nutrient management, and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the dairy sector. The primary purpose of the program is to fund projects that go beyond traditional manure management systems by incorporating advanced technologies that reduce methane emissions while also addressing nitrogen and salt imbalances. Eligible projects must build upon or complement existing systems supported through programs such as the Alternative Manure Management Program or the Dairy Digester Research and Development Program. The program emphasizes measurable environmental benefits, including reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improvements in water quality. Technologies supported include advanced solid-liquid separation systems, vermifiltration, centrifuge separation, and composting enhancements, among others. Funding for the program is substantial, with approximately $34 million allocated for the current solicitation cycle. Individual awards are capped at $1,250,000 per project, calculated at a rate of up to $750 per cow. Grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis, requiring recipients to incur and document expenses prior to receiving payment. While cost sharing is not required, applicants are encouraged to demonstrate financial commitment through matching or in-kind contributions. The grant term is initially set at 12 months, with the possibility of extension to 24 months depending on federal approvals and project progress. Eligibility for the Dairy Plus Program is limited to California-based dairy operations, including farmers, ranchers, and Native American Tribes with qualifying commercial dairy activities. Applicants must be registered with the USDA Farm Service Agency and meet specific operational criteria, including maintaining a physical business presence in California. Projects must take place on commercial dairy operations and adhere to strict requirements regarding environmental compliance, permitting, and operational consistency. The program also prioritizes historically underserved farmers, including beginning, veteran, socially disadvantaged, and limited-resource producers. The application process is conducted through the CDFA Grant Opportunity and Administration Tracking System. Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive proposal that includes multiple components such as a project description, work plan, budget worksheet, environmental impact considerations, and greenhouse gas reduction calculations using approved tools. Additional required attachments include technical documentation, design plans, and evidence of project readiness. CDFA provides informational webinars and technical assistance resources, though direct assistance with application preparation is not permitted. Applications for the current cycle opened on June 16, 2026, and must be submitted by September 14, 2026 at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. The review process takes place between September and November, with award announcements expected in November. Projects are anticipated to begin in March 2027 following grant agreement execution. The program operates on a recurring basis, with prior funding rounds conducted in previous years and continued funding expected through at least 2028, subject to federal support and program performance.

Focus on quantifiable greenhouse gas reductions and clear differentiation from existing AMMP or DDRDP practices; ensure all technical documentation and permits demonstrate project readiness