Grants for Agriculture Land
Agriculture land grants fund farm land acquisition, conservation, sustainable farming practices, soil health improvement, water management, and rural agricultural development. Federal agencies, state governments, and nonprofits support beginning farmers, established operations, conservation-minded landowners, and agricultural businesses. Below are 126 verified agriculture land grant opportunities.
Types of Agriculture Land Grants
Farm Land Acquisition & Access
Beginning farmer land purchase assistance, farmland preservation, down payment grants, land access programs, and lease guarantees for new and succession farming operations.
Conservation & Stewardship
Land conservation easements, habitat restoration, wildlife corridors, water quality protection, sustainable forestry, and conservation practice implementation on agricultural land.
Soil Health & Sustainability
Cover crop incentives, reduced tillage adoption, soil carbon sequestration, organic certification assistance, and sustainable agricultural practice implementation grants.
Water & Irrigation Management
Water system improvements, irrigation efficiency upgrades, drainage system installation, water conservation practices, and agricultural water quality grants.
Major Federal Agriculture Land Programs
USDA Farm Service Agency Loans & Grants
Purpose: Farm land acquisition, operating expenses, equipment, agricultural infrastructure
Programs: Guaranteed Farm Loans, Direct Farm Loans, Microloan Program, Down Payment Loans
Loan Amounts: Up to $1.8M for land purchase (Direct), 90% guaranteed (Guaranteed Loan)
Website: FSA.USDA.gov
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Purpose: Pay farmers for conservation practices improving soil, water, air, and wildlife
Amount: $8.9B annually (~$23K-$38K/year per operation)
Eligibility: Farmers/ranchers with land in agricultural production
Focus: Soil health, water quality, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat
Website: NRCS.USDA.gov/CSP
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Purpose: Cost-share assistance for conservation practice installation
Amount: 75% cost-share up to $450K per year
Practices: Irrigation efficiency, grazing management, crop rotation, cover crops, erosion control
Eligibility: Agricultural producers, nonprofits, tribal governments
Website: NRCS.USDA.gov/EQIP
USDA Beginning Farmer Programs
Purpose: Direct support for new farmer operations and farmland access
Programs: Down Payment Loans (can cover 40% of down payment), Direct Farm Loans with favorable terms
Requirements: Beginning farmer status (farmed less than 10 years), less than $350K annual income
Website: FSA Beginning Farmers
Who Can Apply for Agriculture Land Grants?
Agriculture land grants serve various farm operators, conservation-minded landowners, and agricultural organizations. Eligibility depends on program type and farm characteristics.
- Beginning Farmers: Operations <10 years old, <$350K annual income, can include sole proprietors and partnerships
- Established Farmers & Ranchers: Active agricultural production operations, any size
- Conservation-Minded Operators: Farmers implementing or planning conservation practices
- Socially Disadvantaged Farmers: African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, Asians, women farmers
- Nonprofits: Land trusts, conservation organizations, agricultural development nonprofits
- Tribal Governments: Federally recognized tribes managing agricultural land
Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginning farmers get grants for farmland?
Yes. USDA FSA offers "Down Payment Loans" specifically for beginning farmers—can cover up to 40% of down payment for land and equipment. Land acquisition loans available (Direct Loans up to $1.8M, guaranteed loans higher). Beginning farmer status requires: (1) farming <10 years, (2) personal labor <50% of management, (3) annual income <$350K. Direct loans offer lower interest rates and longer terms. State/nonprofit programs supplement federal grants. Examples: Rural Community Development Grants (USDA RD), state beginning farmer programs. Allow 2-3 months for FSA loan approval.
How much can Conservation Stewardship Program pay?
CSP average payment: $23K-$38K annually per operation depending on conservation practices and regional cost indices. Total CSP funding: $8.9B/year nationally. Payments tier based on performance: higher payments for premium conservation outcomes. Operations can enroll up to 5-10 years. Payments cover: cover crops ($50-$120/acre), reduced tillage ($10-$20/acre), rotational grazing management (flat payment), wildlife habitat ($30-$60/acre), and more. Stacked incentives available—can combine with EQIP (cost-share) and CSP (payments) for same practice.
What conservation practices qualify for EQIP cost-share?
EQIP covers 150+ conservation practices including: irrigation efficiency upgrades (75% cost-share up to $450K), cover crops, reduced/no-till farming, crop rotation, grazing management, water quality structures, erosion control, wildlife habitat restoration, organic operations support. Rates vary by state and practice. EQIP cost-share is typically 75% federal/25% producer. Vegetable producers, beginning farmers, and socially disadvantaged producers may receive higher percentages. Apply through local NRCS office. Competitive selection—stronger conservation plans approved first. Typical approval 3-6 months after application.
Are there grants for buying farmland in my state?
Federal programs available nationally: FSA Down Payment & Direct Loans, USDA Rural Development grants and loans. State-specific programs vary significantly—many states have dedicated beginning farmer land access programs. Examples: (1) Oregon Agricultural Land Board grants, (2) Massachusetts Beginning Farmer loan programs, (3) California Farmland Access grants (some communities). Check your state's Department of Agriculture or NRCS state office for state-specific programs. Land trusts often manage conservation purchase programs—search American Farmland Trust and Land Trust Alliance databases. Nonprofit microlenders (Farm Credit, local agricultural lenders) may offer land grants or below-market financing.
Can I get grants for sustainable or organic farming?
Yes. Organic certification assistance available through NRCS and USDA's Organic Certification Cost-Share Program (up to $750/year for 3 years). Conservation Stewardship Program and EQIP pay premium rates for organic operations and sustainable practices. Crop Insurance subsidies available for organic crops. Some states offer organic transition grants (3-year support while meeting organic requirements). Private companies (Patagonia, organic retailers) offer sustainability grants. Check USDA Organic Integrity Database for current eligible practices and support programs. Organic operations also qualify for higher EQIP cost-share percentages (90% available in some cases).
How long does farm land acquisition take?
Timeline varies by funding source: FSA Direct Loans (2-4 months for underwriting), Guaranteed Loans (private lender timeline, typically 4-8 weeks), Down Payment Loans (2-3 months). Land acquisition process independent of loan approval: property search, offer/negotiation (1-3 months), title work/inspection (2-4 weeks), closing (3-4 weeks). Total for typical acquisition: 4-8 months. Expedited processes available for time-sensitive transactions. Work with experienced agricultural lender familiar with FSA programs to streamline process. Get pre-qualified for loans before property hunting to move quickly when suitable farmland is found.
How to Apply for Agriculture Land Grants
- Determine Program Eligibility: Identify if you qualify (beginning farmer vs. established, farm size, income, farming experience). Determine program best fit: land acquisition (FSA loans), conservation payments (CSP), cost-share (EQIP), or state-specific programs. Review eligibility criteria carefully—some programs have competitive selection.
- Visit Your Local USDA Office: Contact USDA Farm Service Agency (land/loan programs) and NRCS (conservation programs). Services are free. Staff help determine available programs, assist with applications, explain timelines. Locate office at USDA Service Locator. Schedule appointment to discuss your specific situation and goals.
- Prepare Financial & Farm Documentation: Gather tax returns (3 years), financial statements, farm plan, land purchase offer (if applicable), business license, proof of residency. FSA may request additional financial details for loan programs. NRCS requests farm maps, conservation plans. Organized documentation speeds approval process significantly.
- Develop Conservation Plan (if applicable): For CSP and EQIP, develop/work with NRCS to create conservation plan detailing baseline conditions and proposed practices. Field visit by NRCS conservationist typical. Plan development 2-4 weeks. Strong conservation plans more competitive for CSP enrollment.
- Submit Application: FSA loan applications at county office. CSP/EQIP applications through NRCS (deadlines vary by state—typically Feb-April). State/nonprofit programs vary. Track submission, confirm receipt, expect requests for clarification. Most applications require electronic signature.
- Follow Up & Approval: FSA loans: 2-4 months underwriting timeline. CSP/EQIP: competitive selection 3-6 months (announcement of selected applicants). Approved applicants receive Notice of Award and contract terms. Sign contract and begin program participation. Expect annual reporting and compliance requirements.
Agriculture Land Grant Resources
USDA FSA Loans
Farm land acquisition loans, down payment assistance, and beginning farmer programs.
NRCS Conservation Programs
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), EQIP, and soil health grant opportunities.
Beginning Farmer Support
Federal and state beginning farmer programs, land access assistance, and resources.
American Farmland Trust
Land conservation, beginning farmer resources, and agricultural land access programs.
Available Agriculture Land Grants (126)
Showing 1-20 of 126 grants
Calendar Year 2022 Disaster Water Grants
Rural Utilities Service
Water, Landscape, and Critical Zone Processes
U.S. National Science Foundation
Small Surface Water and Groundwater Storage Projects (Small Storage Program)
Bureau of Reclamation
Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Foundational and Applied Science Program
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture
Fish and Wildlife Service
Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Education and Workforce Development
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Conservation Interns at the Raystown Lake Project, USACE
Dept. of the Army -- Corps of Engineers
Agriculture and Food Research Initiative Strengthening Agricultural Systems
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
SOI - Rural Transportation Match and Gap Funding Assistance Program
Denali Commission
Groundwater and Streamflow Information Program, National Ground-Water Monitoring Network
Geological Survey
Ocean Acidification, Hypoxia, and Harmful Algal Bloom Solicitation
Ocean Protection Council
The Monitoring, Research, and Modeling to Support Ocean Acidification, Hypoxia, and Marine Harmful Algal Bloom Management in California solicitation provides funding to enhance scientific understanding of these two water quality concerns in order to advance the State’s response related to growing threats to California’s coastal ecosystems and communities. The Monitoring, Research, and Modeling to Support Ocean Acidification, Hypoxia, and Marine Harmful Algal Bloom Management in California solicitation provides funding to enhance scientific understanding of these two water quality concerns in order to advance the State’s response related to growing threats to California’s coastal ecosystems and communities. The solicitation includes two funding tracks: Track 1: Advancing Knowledge of the...
Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program Public Lands Funding 2026-27
Department of Fish and Wildlife
The Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program’s (NBHIP) Public Land Program is designed to provide assistance to state Wildlife Areas and National Wildlife Refuges to improve the quantity and quality of upland habitat for the benefit of nesting waterfowl, game birds and pollinators. Public land projects funded through NBHIP may include the cultivation or retention of upland cover such as annual nesting cover or perennial native grasses and forbs, or management activities to improve the quality of perennial grass habitats such as managing noxious weeds and other undesirable plants. Any project that is funded by NBHIP will be required to leave the upland cover habitat unmanipulated (e.g., no discing, spraying herbicides, mowing, chopping, or rolling of vegetation) during the nesting season...
Farmworkers Advancement Program (FAP) Grant for Program Year 2025-26 (PY 25-26)
Employment Development Department
The goal of this grant is to fund projects that focus on farmworker needs at a regional level by offering essential skills and upskilling training for farmworkers to either advance in the agricultural industry and/or prepare for advancement outside of the agricultural sector. This grant program is intended to address multiple existing and emerging gaps in the current workforce system for farmworkers. FAP PY 25-26 programs will position farmworkers to obtain access to good-quality jobs including jobs that pay family-sustaining wages, offer benefits, have predictable hours, opportunities for career advancement, and promote worker voice. Projects will also provide wrap-around support and resources to build skills to prevent job loss and lay the foundation for upward mobility. Funded...
Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Climate Bond 2026 Solicitation
CA Natural Resources Agency
This funding will continue to support the return of ancestral lands to California Native American tribes, planning and implementation of habitat restoration projects, protecting the California coast and oceans, advancing wildfire resiliency and cultural fire, and many other multi-benefit nature-based solutions projects across California. Please refer to the TNBS Climate Bond Final 2026 Guidelines for detailed information. Approximately $9.2 million is available for tribal multi-benefit nature-based solutions projects that will fund land acquisition or other fee title acquisitions benefiting California Native American Tribes. Eligible expenses include costs associated with the purchase of property rights, conservation easements, and water rights/instream flows consistent with requirements...
Vertebrate Pest Control Research Program
CA Department of Food and Agriculture
Proposals may focus on research and/or education projects to enhance control measures of vertebrate pests that pose a significant threat to the welfare of state’s agricultural economy, infrastructure, environment, and the public. CDFA does not support proprietary product development projects. Proposals that originate from outside of California are considered if the proposal includes relevance to vertebrate pest concerns within California. Proposals may focus on research and/or education projects to enhance control measures of vertebrate pests that pose a significant threat to the welfare of state’s agricultural economy, infrastructure, environment, and the public. CDFA does not support proprietary product development projects. Proposals that originate from outside of California are...
Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (2026)
Department of Fish and Wildlife
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is pleased to announce funding opportunities under the 2026 Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (FRGP) Proposal Solicitation Notice (Solicitation) for projects that lead to process-based restoration, enhancement, or protection of anadromous salmonid habitat. Proposal applications will be accepted for the types of projects outlined in the solicitation, subject to the funding program criteria. Priority 1 Projects are those that restore, enhance, or protect salmonid habitat in anadromous watersheds through implementation or design projects that lead to implementation. Approximately 65% of the PCSRF grant award will fund Priority 1 Projects. Priority 2 projects are those that support implementation projects through watershed-scale...
Senate Bill 1 Sea Level Rise Adaptation Grant Program – Track 2
Ocean Protection Council
OPC’s SB 1 Sea Level Rise Adaptation Grant Program (SB 1 Grant Program) provides funding for coastal communities to develop sea level rise adaptation plans (Track 1) and implement nature-based adaptation projects (Track 2) to build resilience to sea level rise along the California coast and San Francisco Bay. Track 2 focuses on implementing priority, nature-based sea level rise adaptation projects identified through local planning efforts. The SB 1 Grant Program – Track 2 provides competitive grant funding for nature-based sea level rise (SLR) adaptation projects along the California coast and the San Francisco Bay shoreline. Track 2 is intended for jurisdictions that have completed, or are actively advancing, SLR adaptation planning and are ready to implement priority projects. ...
Grants and Cooperative Agreements Program (GCA) – G26
Department of Parks and Recreation
The Grants and Cooperative Agreements (GCA) Program provides for well managed Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation by providing financial assistance to eligible agencies and organizations that develop, maintain, operate, expand, support, or contribute to well managed, high-quality, OHV Recreation areas, roads, and trails, and to responsibly maintain the wildlife, soils, and habitat in a manner that will sustain long-term OHV Recreation. The GCA Program supports the planning, acquisition, development, maintenance, administration, operation, enforcement, restoration, and conservation of trails, trailheads, areas, and other facilities associated with the use of Off-Highway Motor Vehicles, and programs involving Off-Highway Motor Vehicle safety and/or education.
Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up and Abatement Grant Program FR90
Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery
The Farm & Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up & Abatement Grant program provides funding for cleaning up and preventing illegal dumping on agricultural properties (CCR, Section 17991(d)). Each fiscal year has four application cycles, with the fourth serving as the pilot cycle. Cycle 90 (FR90) is the fourth and the pilot cycle. CalRecycle administers the program per Section 48100 of the Public Resources Code. The project sites eligible for the grant must be located on 'farm and ranch' property, encompassing both private and public land, where the owner is not held responsible for the illegal disposal. The definition of 'farm and ranch' property can be found in the Eligible Geographies section below. Grantees are given approximately two years to complete the project(s). The sites should be fully...
2025-26 Digital Divide Grant Program Round 3
Public Utilities Commission
The Digital Divide Grant Program will award one grant of $100,000 for rural and urban public schools and two grants of up to $50,000 each for non-profit Community Based Organizations (CBO). The grants will fund digital projects that serve beneficiary public schools/districts and non-profit Community Organizations. Projects may address gaps in broadband networks, affordability, access to personal devices and digital skills training. The Digital Divide Grant Program (DDGP) will provide three grants for a total of $200,000. The DDGP is funded by fees collected from leases of state-owned property to wireless telecommunications service providers, pursuant to Government Code Section 14666.8. Eligible projects will serve a beneficiary public school or district located in an urban or rural...