Leveraging Funding for Agricultural Conservation Practices

in Delaware

Jennifer VolkUniversity of Delaware

Environmental Quality Extension Specialist

4th Annual Choose Clean Water ConferenceJune 4, 2013

Agriculture in Delaware’s

portion of the Chesapeake

Ag contributes ~80% of the pollutants

Stream and Wetland Restoration Projects

• Blend funding sources and utilize partnerships – US Natural Resources Conservation Service– US Fish and Wildlife Service– Department of Natural Resources and Environmental

Control (DNREC)– Department of Agriculture– County Conservation Districts– Non-profit groups

• Ducks Unlimited• The Nature Conservancy

– School groups– Private contractors

Gravelly Branch Restoration Project

• Reconnected channelized stream to floodplain• Federal, state, and local partners

Federal funds

State-owned lands

Multiple agencies

design and construct

Tax ditch organization

Webber Farm Restoration Project

• 66.3% State funds • 26.4% National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant • 7.3% Non-Point Source Program funds

Webber Farm Restoration Project

“Whole Farm Water Management”• 1 acre demonstration wetland filters water draining from

production area with 6 poultry houses, supportive structures, and 55 acres of cropland

Cover Crops• 4 similar but separate cost share programs

Sussex Conservation District FY2013 Funds• DNREC Conservation Cost Share (state)• DNREC Nonpoint Source Program (federal)• General Assembly Bond Bill (state)• USDA NRCS (federal)• DNREC Watershed Assessment Section (federal)• Department of Agriculture (state)

Cover Crops

Participation impacted by:• Funding• Weather conditions• Policies

Strategic Watershed Action Team Program

NRCS grant to have SWAT planners write Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans for poultry producers • DNREC and County Conservation Districts also contributed cash and in-

kind services– 2 planners– 2 years– 112 CNMPs– 10 outreach/education events

It’s all about the partnerships!

jennvolk@udel.edu302-730-4000