Vermont Agriculture and Timber Disaster Assistance Block Grant

Submitted by tim on Mon, 06/22/2026 - 04:37

Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets Governor Phil Scott and the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets (VAAFM) have announced that the state has secured $31.7 million in federal funding through the USDA Farm Service Agency. This Agriculture and Timber Disaster Assistance Block Grant, created under the American Relief Act of 2025, will help producers recover from the severe storms, flooding, and weather extremes of 2023 and 2024.

The funding will support a wide range of needs, including infrastructure repairs, timber losses, market disruptions, future economic losses, and bare‑ground practices that prevent land degradation. These resources are designed to fill gaps not covered by other USDA disaster programs and to strengthen the long‑term resilience of Vermont’s working lands.

State officials emphasized that this support will help stabilize farms, logging operations, and rural communities still feeling the impacts of recent disasters. With the agreement now signed, VAAFM will begin developing the program, with applications expected to open in 2026.

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Funding for Equipment to Improve Water Quality
The Capital Equipment Assistance Program (CEAP) is still accepting applications, offering grants covering up to 90% of the cost of farm equipment that reduces runoff and improves water quality. Eligible items include cover‑cropping tools, conservation tillage equipment, manure or wastewater management technology, and more. Applications are due July 15, which is several months earlier than in previous years.

Learn more and apply

Raising and Marketing Beef x Dairy Crossbred Animals
You’re invited to on-farm educational events this week where Vermont Cattlemen will share information on raising beef x dairy crossbred terminal beef animals to evaluate the economic potential of building a Northeast‑based beef supply chain. Attend a workshop on June 25 at Bovinity Farm in Chester or on June 26 in Daona Farm in Shoreham. Events are free and lunch will be provided.

Register to participate

Vermont Pay for Performance Program
The Vermont Pay for Performance Program (VPFP) application period closes on July 15. VPFP provides performance‑based payments to Vermont farms that reduce phosphorus losses. Eligible applicants include farms operating in Vermont that manage crop, hay, or pasture land and maintain an up‑to‑date Nutrient Management Plan. Accepted farms will enter Phase 1: Planning in 2026, with eligible participants advancing to Phase 2: Implementation in 2027. New Phase 1 applications reopen in January 2027.

Learn more and apply

Submit a Breakout Session for Annual Farm to Plate Gathering
Vermont Farm to Plate is now accepting breakout session proposals for the 16th Annual Farm to Plate Gathering, November 19–20, at Burke Mountain Hotel.

This year’s theme, Taking Stock and Quilting the Future, invites interactive sessions that help farmers and food system leaders adapt, innovate, and strengthen Vermont’s food system. All proposals should align with at least one of the Strategic Plan's priority areas. Submissions are due by August 7.

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Upcoming Dates & Deadlines

July
7/15 - Capital Equipment Assistance Program application due
7/15 - Vermont Pay for Performance Program application due

View the VAAFM Grants Calendar

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