News Flash

LIVE OAK, FLA., Nov. 29, 2016 – Local dairy farmers will have an opportunity to save and protect water through the Suwannee River Water Management District’s (District) dairy operations cost-share assistance program.

Through the Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) state springs grant program, $1.5 million has been allocated to provide cost-share assistance for up to 75% of improvement costs to qualifying dairies within the district. Applications for the program open November 30, 2016. 

“This program illustrates the continued commitment of the District and its agricultural partners to conserve water and reduce nutrient loads,” said Noah Valenstein, executive director for the District. “We are thankful to Governor Scott and DEP for allocating this funding to our district and its water users.” 

The intent of the cost-share program is to fund projects that achieve one or more of the following objectives: (1) increase wastewater storage to at least 30 days; (2) install manure solids separation/recycling equipment; or (3) install advanced wastewater treatment systems for additional nutrient separation and conversion to more stable forms. To qualify for the cost-share, interested dairies are encouraged to submit an application no later than close of business on January 20, 2017. 

“Our area’s dairy farmers continually seek ways to conserve water and reduce nitrogen use on their own,” said Darrell Smith, director for the division of agriculture and projects with the District. “This program creates additional opportunities for water conservation for our agricultural producers.” 

For more information or get a copy of the application, contact Justin Garland, Hugh Thomas or Darrell Smith at (386) 362-1001. 

The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. 

For more information about the District, visit www.mysuwanneeriver.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter, search @SRWMD.