December 11, 2020 / Program / Keli Kirby

 

Maryland’s Conservation Buffer Initiative

Introducing Maryland’s new Conservation Buffer Initiative. This pilot program provides a new funding option for farmers who want to plant streamside buffers on their farms to improve the health of local streams and the Chesapeake Bay.

Sign-up begins on January 11 and ends February 5

There are 3 types of buffers eligible for funding. They are forest, grass, and watercourse access control areas adjacent to pastures.

  • Farmers receive a one-time payment for enrolled land with 75% paid when the contract is executed and 25% paid when the project is completed.
  • Payment rates range from $500/acre for an existing grass buffer to a maximum of $3,500/acre to install a riparian forest buffer with fencing.
  • Mowing and hay harvesting are allowed; nutrient applications are not.
  • Contracts are for 5 or 10 years.
  • Soil conservation districts provide free technical assistance to get your buffer installed.
  • All work must be completed by June 30, 2022

Apply online or by mail between January 11, 2021 and February 5, 2021.

For more information and application form, go to: https://mda.maryland.gov/resource_conservation/Pages/conservation-buffer-initiative.aspx

FORMS

Application Form: http://www.aascd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/State-Buffer-Program-Application_FINALALL_OAG.xlsx
Special Power of Attorney Form: http://www.aascd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/23_-special_power_of_attorney_FINAL.docx
Certificate of Sole Proprietorship: http://www.aascd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/24_Certificate_of_Sole_Proprietorship_FINAL.docx
Certificate of Resolution: http://www.aascd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/25_Certificate_of_Resolution_FINAL.docx
Final Payment Form: http://www.aascd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Final-Payment-Form.pdf