Fiscal year 2024 has good news for Virginia’s farmers—and water quality, according to a release from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Robust funding for agricultural cost-share—plus program changes that streamline paperwork and enhance benefits—mean farmers can get more support for their soil and water conservation practices.
The Virginia Agricultural Best Management Practices Cost-Share Program, or VACS, is funded with $124.6 million in fiscal year 2024. Farmers can receive up to $300,000 to adopt practices that keep nutrients, sediments and waste out of streams and rivers. These practices can also help boost farm productivity and profitability.
More than 70 best management practices are eligible for VACS funding, including cover crops, nutrient management plans, streamside tree or grass buffers, livestock stream-exclusion fencing and alternative watering systems for livestock.
“Last year’s record-breaking VACS funding continues this year, strengthening our supp...