In Plattsburgh, N.Y., funding from the state will boost a number of water-quality products on farms in the counties of Clinton, Essex and Franklin.
According to the Press-Republican, $16.8 million has been awarded to support 54 agricultural projects across New York. Thus, helping farmers prevent pollution in the state’s waterways.
“Agriculture is one of New York’s greatest economic drivers, and we will continue to assist farmers across the state as they work to deliver quality products while also conserving our treasured natural resources,” said Gov. Andrew Cuomo in a news release, according to the Press-Republican. “As the fight against climate change continues, New York is committed to leading the nation in agricultural best-practices that support hardworking farmers and protect the environment.”
According to the Press-Republican, more than two dozen County Soil and Water Conservation District have applied on behalf of farms for grants. The grants were awarded through the state’s Agricultural Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Program.
This program assists with projects involving environmental planning or implement best-management practice including nutrient management through manure storage, vegetative buffers along streams, conservation cover crops and other soil-conservation measures, according to the Press-Republican.
The counties given awards include Clinton, Essex and Franklin, according to the Press-Republican.
The Clinton County Soil and Water Conservation District will receive $222,975 to work with a farm in the Corbeau Creek Watershed. The Essex County Soil and Water Conservation District will get $71,010 to work with a farm in the Boquet River Watershed and the Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation District was awarded $452,495 to work with a farm in the Chateaugay/Trout River Watershed.
The Clinton County project is designed to reduce potential of manure runoff to surface and groundwater resources, as well as repair denuded walkways and prevent future soil degradation. The Essex County project will reduce sediment erosion and reduce nutrient runoff, among other things. The Franklin County project will reduce runoff impacts on groundwater and surface water resources among other things.