State Invests $240 Million in Agricultural Climate and Water Quality Programs

New York officials say more than $240 million has been invested over the past five years to support on-farm environmental projects and strengthen county Soil and Water Conservation Districts, as part of a statewide effort to reduce pollution, improve soil health and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Announced during Earth Week, the funding supports programs including Climate Resilient Farming, the Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program, and the Enhanced Nutrient and Methane Management Program, along with state aid to local conservation districts.

State officials say the investments have helped expand practices such as cover cropping, methane reduction systems and streamside buffer plantings aimed at reducing runoff and protecting waterways.

According to the state, more than $22 million has supported cover crop projects, about $52 million has gone toward methane reduction efforts, and roughly $2.8 million has funded streamside buffers. Another $76 million has supported county conservation district operations and technical assistance to farms.

Officials say the programs are part of a broader effort to advance climate goals while supporting agricultural productivity and long-term environmental sustainability across New York farms.

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