Many of the practices available through our program require nutrient management plans. Practices are available to cover the cost of nutrient management plans written by private individuals. This practice pays per acre for writing or revising a nutrient management plan. In the event, producers are not able to get nutrient management plans from private planners, we can help write plans free of charge.  

Stream Exclusion The exclusion of livestock from streams can be a beneficial yet costly endeavor for producers. Cost-share is available for producers who want to exclude livestock or already have cattle excluded from streams. At a rate up to 100%, we will assist in installing stream exclusion fencing and alternative watering systems. For producers already excluding livestock, there is a maintenance incentive rate per foot to assist in maintaining exclusion fences.
Pasture Management Rotational grazing can help producers increase the amount of forage available for their livestock throughout the year. Grazing management has been shown to increase the efficiency of forage utilization and even allow producers with adequate land to graze year-round, reducing the need for supplemental feeding. Producers who have an approved grazing plan with us are eligible for incentive payment per acre.
Animal Waste Management Handling animal waste can be a large burden for producers who manage livestock. We have practices that can help with the management, storage, and utilization of animal waste. Depending on the situation, producers can receive up to 75% cost-share to developed animal waste facilities. Cost0share practices range from reducing mess due to winter feeding to large waste storage facilities.

Conservation Tillage Conservation tillage can be a less labor-intensive and conservation-friendly way to manage crops. Reducing tillage can increase water holding capacity, nutrient retention and decrease erosion. We provide cost-share to help farms convert and implement conservation tillage methods. For producers who already utilize conservation tillage, an incentive rate for up to 5 years is available to help you continue managing crops through conservation tillage.
Cover Crops Providing cover on the soil surface after crops are harvested is an excellent way to reduce soil erosion and scavenge excess nutrients remaining from the previous season. Many different cost-share options are available for cover crops, including ones where small grains can be harvested the next spring. The cost-share rate usually ranges from $20-$60 per acre, depending on the time of planting and the type of cover crop you are interested in planting.
Nutrient Management The timely application of nutrients to crops is essential in increasing yield while reducing input costs of fertilizers. We provide cost-share assistance for split-application of nitrogen on both corn and winter small grains and precision application of nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen.

Tax credits can often be the simplest way for producers to get assistance for conservation they are implementing or have already implemented. The James River Soil and Water can offer a tax credit for 25% of the eligible costs for most best management practices.

Buying Equipment?
The purchase of conservation tillage and precision agriculture equipment is eligible for a 25% tax credit. Tax credits are given based on the total cost of items or materials purchased and are credited to the calendar year in which they were purchased. Contact your tax accountant for more information on the use of tax credits.