CDFA TO INITIATE SECOND ROUND OF FUNDING FOR THE STATE WATER EFFICIENCY AND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM (SWEEP)

There is a bit of good news coming out of CDFA recently, as they will start their second round of financial assistance to install water distribution systems that help reduce greenhouse gases and conserve water. The program titled State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP) was authorized by emergency drought legislation. Agriculture operations looking at energy and water conservation projects (pump improvements, equipment to facilitate water saving measures and other quantifiable water distribution and greenhouse gas reduction management practices) could be provided with up to $150,000.

CDFA will begin accepting applications on September 29, 2014. Details regarding eligibility information and program requirements can be accessed at www.cdfa.ca.go/go/SWEEP . To expedite the application process, CDFA is partnering with the State Water Resources Control Board, which hosts an online application using the Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST). All applicants must register for a FAAST account at https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov. The deadline to submit electronically to FAAST is Friday, November 10, 2014 at 5;00 PM (PST).

To help with program requirements and for more information about the program, CDFA will hold three application workshops to help with the application process. The workshop is free but individuals are encouraged to RSVP to grants@cdfa.ca.gov with their contact information, number of seats required and workshop location.

Workshop Locations:

Fresno – October 6, 2014
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Fresno County Ag Commissioner Office
1730 S. Maple Avenue
West Wing Conference Room #1
Fresno, CA 93702

San Luis Obispo – October 8, 2014
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
San Luis Obispo County Ag Commissioner Office
Auditorium
2156 Sierra Way,
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Sacramento – October 13, 2014
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
California Department of Food and Agriculture
Auditorium
1220 N Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Webinar – October 16, 2014
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM (PST)
Webinar Information will be provided upon registration