The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program provides pasture management technical assistance and financial assistance to Vermont farmers to improve water quality and on-farm livestock exclusion from surface waters statewide.
Eligible Practices
- Fence
- Livestock Pipeline
- Water Source Development
- Watering Facility
- Improved Permanent Water Area
- Stream Crossing
- Electric Fence Chargers
- Trails & Walkways
Program Details
- The Pasture and Surface Water Fencing (PSWF) Program provides no-cost pasture management technical assistance from experienced grazing specialists
- PSWF also provides financial assistance that reimburses 90% of the cost to install infrastructure that will improve pasture management, up to the farm’s grant amount.
- Maximum grant amount when the project has livestock exclusion from surface waters is $15,000 per farm.
- Maximum grant amount when there is no livestock exclusion from surface waters, but where rotational grazing will be implemented or improved is $10,000 per farm. Rotational grazing requires moving livestock frequently enough to implement a prescribed grazing plan that meets the goals of the PSWF program.
Eligibility
- Be a Vermont farm as defined in the Required Agricultural Practices
- Manage pastureland where water quality will benefit from implementation of improved pasture management and eligible and/or necessary conservation practices
- Have ownership or land control for the lifespan of the practice (10 years)
- Have an insurance policy that allows for the State and its employees and officers to be listed as additional insured
How To Apply
All applications are received on a rolling basis.
The PSWF Application requires the following information:
- Farm Contact Information
- # of acres
- # of livestock and livestock type
- Practices proposed or interested in learning more about
- If applicable, partners or other organizations you are working with on the project
Prior to applying, please read the important information below:
- Submitting an application does not ensure an award.
- Grant agreements must be in place prior to the start of construction.
- Farmer is responsible for financing the project during construction and will only receive reimbursement upon certified project completion.
- Final cost share payment is determined by actual project costs as documented by itemized invoices.
- Farmer’s equipment and labor costs are eligible for reimbursement.
Contact For More Information
Mary Montour, Agricultural Water Quality Program Coordinator
PHONE: 802-461-6087
EMAIL: Mary.Montour@Vermont.Gov