Best Management Practices (BMP) Program

The Best Management Practices (BMP) Program is administered by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets through its Water Quality Division. The program is designed to support Vermont farmers in addressing agricultural water quality concerns by providing both technical and financial assistance. Its core mission is to reduce agricultural waste discharges into Vermont waters while helping farms remain operationally viable and compliant with state water quality regulations. Program staff, including engineers and water quality specialists, work directly with farmers to assess conditions and recommend improvements that align with regulatory standards and environmental goals. The program focuses primarily on farmstead-based structural improvements that mitigate runoff and waste discharge. Eligible projects include systems and infrastructure such as manure storage facilities, silage leachate collection systems, barnyard runoff containment, composting pads, milk house waste treatment systems, and clean water diversion mechanisms like gutters, ditches, and drains. These practices are designed to prevent contaminants from entering waterways and to improve overall farm environmental management. All funded designs must meet established engineering standards and are typically developed or approved by qualified professionals. Technical assistance is a central component of the BMP Program and is available at no cost to participating farms. This assistance includes engineering consultations, design services for state-funded projects, water quality compliance evaluations, and guidance on state permitting and variances. Farmers are encouraged to apply for technical assistance as soon as a water quality issue is identified, as early engagement improves planning and increases the likelihood of successful project implementation. Technical support often precedes financial assistance and helps ensure that proposed solutions are feasible and compliant. Financial assistance is offered through two primary pathways: BMP-Only projects and NRCS EQIP-Assist projects. BMP-Only funding supports projects designed and implemented primarily through the state program, while EQIP-Assist provides supplemental funding for farms already participating in the federal Environmental Quality Incentives Program. In both cases, funding is distributed as cost-share reimbursement, meaning farmers must initially cover project expenses and are reimbursed after verified completion. Payment rates are capped at up to 90 percent of eligible costs, with maximum limits of 100,000 dollars for BMP-Only projects and 200,000 dollars for EQIP-Assist projects, subject to additional constraints based on federal contributions. Eligibility for the program is limited to farms required to comply with Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices regulations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and projects are evaluated using a priority ranking and risk assessment process defined in statute. While applications may be submitted at any time, a May 1 deadline is strongly recommended for those seeking technical assistance within the same year and financial assistance in the following year. Applications submitted after this date may be deferred to the next funding cycle. Importantly, submission does not guarantee funding, and all projects must have finalized designs and cost estimates approved before construction begins. The application process is relatively straightforward, requiring submission through an online or paper application system, followed by review and potential site visits by program engineers. Successful applicants enter into grant agreements prior to construction and must comply with all documentation and reporting requirements. Final reimbursement is based on documented actual costs, including itemized invoices and records of in-kind contributions such as labor or materials. Farmers are also expected to coordinate with program staff throughout the construction process, particularly for projects involving federal cost-share partnerships. Program contacts are available through the Water Quality Division, including a program coordinator who can assist with applications and provide guidance. Farmers can also access additional support through partner organizations such as conservation districts, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and university extension services. Overall, the BMP Program represents a comprehensive approach to improving agricultural water quality in Vermont by combining regulatory compliance support, engineering expertise, and financial incentives.

Apply early especially before May 1 to receive priority consideration; ensure engineering designs and cost estimates are completed before applying; maintain detailed records of expenses for reimbursement