By Blake Jackson
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $16.8 million in new funding for agricultural projects designed to help farmers address climate change while protecting water quality and strengthening natural resources.
The funding is being offered through the state’s Climate Resilient Farming (CRF) Grant Program and was announced during Climate Week NYC.
The grants are intended to support farmers in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving soil health, protecting water resources, and making their operations better prepared for climate-related challenges.
The initiative is part of the state’s broader efforts to conserve natural resources while helping the agricultural sector adapt to changing environmental conditions.
“It is important that we continue to position our farmers with the right resources to adapt to a changing climate,” Governor Hochul said. “The Climate Resilient Farming Program allows our farmers to implement practices that will strengthen their operations while protecting our natural resources and supporting the future of New York agriculture.”
The CRF Program is supported through New York’s Environmental Protection Fund. Now entering its 10th funding round, the program offers four areas of financial support.
Track 1 - Livestock Management: Funding will support manure, methane and precision feed management projects aimed at lowering methane emissions and improving farm resilience during major precipitation events.
Track 2 - Adaptation and Resiliency: Grants will help farms prepare for climate-related risks, including flooding, drought and significant temperature changes.
Track 3 - Healthy Soils NY: Projects will promote soil-health practices and agroforestry systems. These efforts can improve water retention, support nitrogen cycling, strengthen soil, and create carbon sinks that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Track 4 - Agricultural Forestry Management: Funding will support tree planting and forest management on agricultural properties to increase carbon sequestration.
Since the program began, nine previous funding rounds have provided $94 million for 713 farm projects. The projects are estimated to reduce more than 639,483 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions over their expected lifespans.
County Soil and Water Conservation Districts can submit applications on behalf of farmers. Proposed projects must align with the state’s Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) process and local priorities.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. November 23, 2026. Through AEM, participating districts help farmers develop science-based, cost-effective strategies that support business objectives while conserving New York’s natural resources.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-kotenko-a
Categories: New York, Government & Policy, Livestock