Virginia Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) Program
Through funding provided by the VA Soil and Water Conservation Board and the VA Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the Eastern Shore Soil and Water Conservation District (Eastern Shore SWCD) administers the VA Agricultural Best Management Practice (BMP) Cost-Share Program in Accomack and Northampton Counties.
The goal of the Virginia Agricultural BMP Cost Share Program is to improve water quality in the VA's streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay. Cost Share assistance is offered as an incentive to implement best management practices. The basis of the program is to encourage the voluntary installation of agricultural BMPs to meet Virginia's non-point pollution reduction objectives. Emphasis is given on the implementation of agricultural BMPs in locations that provide the greatest nutrient and sediment reductions for the taxpayer's dollar and interest. Many different practices are offered that can assist landowners and producers in maintaining soil on the land with consequent benefits to crop production and water quality.
More information and specifications of best management practices are found in the most current 2021 VA Ag BMP Manual. Many practices listed are eligible for VA Tax Credits.
COVER CROP and NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANNING:
CLICK HERE for Sign-up information on available Cover Crop BMPs for FY21
Sign-up period: July 15- August 17, 2020 for 1st ranking period
SPLIT APPLICATION ON SMALL GRAINS OR SIDEDRESS ON CORN:
CLICK HERE for Sign-up information on available cost share for Split Application BMPs for FY21. Sign-up period: July 15- August 17, 2020 for 1st ranking period
POULTRY BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES:
CLICK HERE for FY21 information on available cost share for Poultry BMPs. Sign-up period: July 15- August 17, 2020 for 1st ranking period