The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) announced it is accepting applications for cost-share projects to develop alternative water supply projects and water conservation projects. This is part of the state of Florida’s continuing efforts to identify and implement cost-effective strategies to protect its water resources while meeting Florida’s water needs. Partnering with local governments and other entities for implementation of water conservation projects and development of alternative water projects are important and effective ways to help accomplish this goal.
Craig Frey, Hendry County Extension director and multi-county commercial horticulture Extension agent, noted the following points for growers looking to fund projects:
- There is no limitation due to the size of the business.
- Funding level depends on the total legislative funding and number of projects selected. In the past, projects have typically been $50,000, though a few ag projects have reached $100,000.
- The project must be paid for out of pocket and is later reimbursed, to the amount that is finalized in the contract (up to 50 percent).
- Other restrictions are specified in the Cooperative Funding Program Guidelines.
- View an example of an agriculture project (remote weather sensing with soil moisture data loggers).
Governor DeSantis requested recurring annual cost-share funding for developing water supply and water resource development projects. Therefore, SFWMD is requesting applications for funding consideration for alternative water supply (AWS) and water conservation projects within the SFWMD’s 16-county service area in anticipation of cost-share funding being appropriated for fiscal year 2021–2022.
Eligible projects for consideration should be construction-ready AWS projects or ready-to-implement water conservation technology programs that provide the most immediate benefits.
The application process is now open and closes on Feb. 26 at 4 p.m. Projects may receive up to 50 percent cost-share of eligible project costs. Visit sfwmd.gov/coopfunding for more information and to apply. For assistance with the application process or technical support, contact Stacey Adams (sadams@sfwmd.gov or 561-682-2577) or Rick Nevulis (rnevul@sfwmd.gov or 561-682-6242).
Sources: South Florida Water Management District and University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension