Conservation Innovation Grants

Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) is a voluntary program intended to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production. Under CIG, Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funds are used to award competitive grants to non-federal governmental or non-governmental organizations, Tribes, or individuals.

CIG enables NRCS to work with other public and private entities to accelerate technology transfer and adoption of promising technologies and approaches to address some of the Nation's most pressing natural resource concerns. CIG will benefit agricultural producers by providing more options for environmental enhancement and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. NRCS administers CIG.

Massachusetts CIG 2007

NRCS Massachusetts is currently seeking proposals for projects to improve energy efficiency on Massachusetts farms. The grant specifically targets projects that include on-farm energy efficiency audits, audit processes and renewable energy alternatives.

Some $192,000 in federal funds will be awarded through a statewide competitive grants process. Individual grants will not exceed $75,000. Proposals must be received in the NRCS Massachusetts State Office by 4:00 pm (Eastern) on May 10, 2007. Read more...

How to apply

For full instructions, download the funding announcement and forms below. To submit your application electronically, visit www.grants.gov, click on "Apply for Grants" and follow the instructions. The CDFA number for this grant application package is 10.912.

Documents with this icon require Adobe Acrobat.
2007 CIG State Funding Announcement
Project summary sheet template
form SF424 - Application for Federal Assistance
form SF424A - Budget Information, non-construction programs
form SF424B - Assurances, non-construction programs

National CIG information (national NRCS website)

Massachusetts CIG program contact: 

Richard DeVergilio
State Resource Conservationist
(413) 253-4379
Fax: (413) 253-4375
Rick.Devergilio@ma.usda.gov

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