Conservation Technical Assistance Program Grants

Unsupported Browser Detected The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer. Supported Browsers Google Chrome Safari Microsoft Edge Firefox Conservation Technical Assistance Program Grants Conservation Technical Assistance Program Grants The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is introducing a new competitive grant opportunity under the Conservation Technical Assistance Program (CTAP). These grants are designed to support both the Regenerative Agriculture Program  and the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program  (MAEAP). About the Conservation Technical Assistance Program The purpose of the Conservation Technical Assistance Program (CTAP) is to deliver environmental and educational outcomes in partnership with local conservation districts within its designated service area through the Regenerative Agriculture Program (RAP) and the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP). The statutory authority for environmental assurance programs is found in the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA), Act 451 of 1994, Part 31 and Part 87. MAEAP and RAP are funded through a combination of general fund allocations and the Freshwater Protection Fund under the same act. RAP’s mission is to champion a regenerative approach to agriculture, resulting in farmer prosperity, improved farm ecosystems, increased community health, and vibrant agricultural systems. RAP provides resources to help farmers adopt regenerative practices, improve soil health, and access emerging market opportunities that value sustainability. MAEAP’s mission is to promote and recognize the adoption of practices that reduce environmental risk. This voluntary program helps farmers implement environmentally sound practices that protect Michigan’s natural resources while supporting long-term farm viability. Together, these programs enable CTAP to strengthen Michigan’s agricultural landscape by promoting conservation, advancing regenerative practices, and supporting farmers in achieving environmental stewardship and economic resilience. For inquiries about the program contact the CTAP grant staff ( [email protected] ). Applicant Eligibility Requirements: Conservation Districts meeting all statutory and grant agreement eligibility requirements may be considered for CTAP grant funding. Eligible applicants must submit approved FY26 budget. The cover letter of an Independent Auditor’s Report from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) which indicates the applicant had a successful audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America for fiscal year 2024 or 2025, or a copy of the engagement letter from a CPA to the grantee indicating an audit will be completed for fiscal year 2025. If an engagement letter is submitted, the applicant must provide the cover letter from the completed audit within six months of the start date of this grant. Applicant Evaluation Criteria: MDARD staff and advisors to the Conservation and Stewardship Division staff will review and score submitted proposals using the following rubric. Programmatic Elements The number of proposed new practices applied annually is meaningful based on historical data and proposed budget. The priority practices identified are meaningful based on historical data and location. Proposal located within a priority watershed (Western Lake Erie Basin, Saginaw Allegan Watershed or other watersheds not supporting designated uses due to nonpoint source contributions from agricultural activities). Assess watershed status here: How's My Waterway - Home . Application coverage areas which take a multi-county approach and can demonstrate collaboration among conservation districts.