Apply for SWEEP Grant to Improve Irrigation Efficiency by March 14

The State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP) offers agricultural operations in California up to $100,000 to invest in irrigation systems that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save water.

As noted in a previous CCOF blog entry, SWEEP funds can be used to install the following:

• Weather-, soil-, or plant-based sensors for irrigation scheduling
• Micro-irrigation or drip systems
• Conversion of a diesel pumps to solar, wind, electric, or natural gas
• Improved energy efficiency (e.g., retrofitting or replacing pumps)
• Low pressure irrigation systems
• Variable frequency drives to reduce energy use and match pump flow to load requirements
• Reduced pumping (e.g., improved irrigation scheduling)
• Other management practices that save water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., soil management practices such as cover cropping and compost addition that increase water-holding capacity)

Applications are due March 14, 2017 at 5:00 p.m. PST. For detailed information on eligibility and application requirements, visit the SWEEP website. Resources include a step-by-step guide to completing the application and a set of Frequently Asked Questions.

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