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How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
Contacts
Laura J. Maul
Gerry Palano
The Details of How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
About: for How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
The Climate Smart Agriculture Program (“CSAP”) combines MDAR’s water, energy, and climate grants into one application. The three grant programs combined in this application are the Agricultural Climate Resiliency & Efficiencies (“ACRE”) Grant, the Agricultural Environmental Enhancement Program Grant (“AEEP”) and the Ag-Energy Program Grant (“ENER”) . By bringing the three grants under one program, MDAR seeks to simplify the application process.
The program seeks to support farmers in adapting to changing climate conditions through practices that improve soil health, ensure the efficient use of water, prevent impacts on water quality, reduce energy use and reduce the use of fossil fuels, while also encouraging the use of innovative technologies that improve resource efficiency. It aims to strengthen local food systems, improve farm productivity, and ensure long-term sustainability, all while reducing the environmental footprint of agriculture.
How to apply How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
Applications must be submitted through the online application. Support documents must be sent to MDARGrants@mass.gov.
Next steps for How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
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Determine your eligibility
- Applicant must be an agricultural operation as defined by M.G.L. c. 128, § 1A that is principally and substantially engaged in the business of production agriculture;
- Property must be in active agricultural use and managed as a commercial enterprise by the Applicant for at least the three (3) previous years to the date of the application.
Review the Request for Response (RFR)
Before applying, please read the Request for Response (RFR). It provides a comprehensive summary of grant evaluation criteria, review timelines, award recipient expectations, eligible uses of grant funds, and examples of projects.
Open PDF file, 1.07 MB, FY25 Climate Smart for Agriculture Program (CSAP) - Round II - RFR (English, PDF 1.07 MB)Prepare the information you need to submit an application
You will need to provide the following as part of your application:
- A summary of your agricultural business, details of the project you are proposing and the benefits associated with the proposed project.
- A description of the proposed project outcomes.
- Your work plan and timeline for the project.
- An itemized project budget, including any matching funds.
- Additional documentation in the form of quotes, maps, and balance of funding. Energy applications should include a project specific technical assessment, or energy audit for the proposed energy project.
Submit your application
During an open application period submit your application with any additional documentation by the posted deadline. Applications can be submitted by e-mail, in-person, or by mailing.
MDAR reviews your application
MDAR will evaluate all applications submitted by the deadline and will makes award decisions based on the eligibility and evaluation criteria specified in the Request for Response (RFR).
Sign a grant agreement with MDAR
If your operation is selected to receive a grant MDAR will issue you an award letter and contract documents that specify the terms and conditions of your award. You will need to sign a Standard Contract with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and a Grant Agreement with MDAR before making any purchases related to the project
Project Reimbursement
Upon project completion submission of acceptable documentation is required for reimbursement. Documentation in the form cancelled checks, receipts, invoices, etc. for costs associated with approved project must be submitted to MDAR and approved prior to reimbursement. MDAR may publish information and images from your project on its web site or agency social media as examples for other operations engaging in similar projects.
Any project costs incurred prior to an executed contract with MDAR are not eligible for reimbursement.
Unless your operation demonstrates significant need during the process, your grant funds will be distributed in one lump sum upon conclusion of your project.
Projects must be completed by June 30th.
Downloads for How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
Open PDF file, 1.07 MB, FY25 Climate Smart for Agriculture Program (CSAP) - Round II - RFR (English, PDF 1.07 MB)Open PDF file, 68.22 KB, FY25 CSAP RFR - Budget Template (English, PDF 68.22 KB)Contact for How to apply to the Climate Smart Agriculture Program
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