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Cost-Share Program - Whidbey Island CD
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Program level:
Local
Provider:
Whidbey Island Conservation District
Benefits provided:
Financial
Land use:
Agriculture, Forest
Water-focused program:
No
We support cost-sharing assistance to implement USDA NRCS-approved conservation practices through competitive funding programs like the Natural Resource Investments, Sustainable Farms and Fields, and Shellfish Programs.
Overview
Description:
The Washington State Conservation Commission (WSCC) also provides cost share assistance to implement USDA NRCS-approved conservation practices through competitive funding programs like the Natural Resource Investments, Sustainable Farms and Fields, and Shellfish Programs. We help administer local reimbursements of up to 75% for historically underserved applicants and 50% for others.
By working with our Planners to submit the required materials, your project may be considered for funding by WSCC if it meets the following eligibility requirements:
Your project will create a demonstrated improvement in natural resource management
You own the land or, if you are a lessee, the landowner is willing to co-sign a contract
You have confirmed your project meets all legal and permitting requirements of local, state, and federal agencies
For work to be completed by a contractor, you must submit at least one written bid
For work to be completed yourself, you must submit a project plan with estimates of permitting costs, materials costs, labor hours, and equipment type and usage
You have not terminated or failed to complete a prior WSCC contract
You can complete work within the funding term (typically 2 years, depending on contract approval)
You agree to maintain the project to NRCS standards for its designated lifetime
Funding becomes available following two year legislative sessions. Our next biennium begins July 2025.
Eligibility:
Eligible Costs
Licensed and verified contractor charges
Materials purchased (excluding tools and equipment) and equipment rental
Employee labor costs as properly documented
Applicant’s own labor and labor provided at no monetary cost (family and friends), valued at $22 per hour, or the established minimum wage for persons younger than 17
Use of applicant’s own equipment is valued according to the most current USDA Farm Service Agency Equipment and Implements Rates List (available on the website).
Other Considerations:
You will work with our Planners to complete our conservation planning process
Work cannot begin prior to contract signing and Cultural Resource Compliance (typically two months after contract signing)
We’re partnering with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to streamline access to technical and financial support for Whidbey’s farmers. USDA's Census of Agriculture shows that Island County has one of the largest percentages of historically underserved producers when compared to surrounding counties - 91% small, 52% women owned, 31% beginning, 10% veteran, 8% young, and 6% BIPOC.
USDA offers extra assistance to historically underserved producers: beginning, socially disadvantaged, limited resource, and military veterans. Use the self-determination tool linked on our website to see if you’re a limited resource producer. These producers are eligible for higher rates of financial assistance. We'll help you navigate the process.
Financial benefit:
WSCC Cost Share award limit is $100,000 per applicant per fiscal year
Your total financial assistance from all sources (i.e. grants, federal) shall not exceed 100% of the total project costs
Reimbursement payments are made after final inspection of the practice completion. Partial payments may be possible for once an individual practice is completed, if the rest will be complete within 6 months.
Projects on public land are eligible for 50% reimbursement with approval by WSCC
Contact information
Information last updated on July 15, 2025.
Planning Importance
Developing a forest, agricultural, or conservation plan helps identify and prioritize objectives for landowners. These objectives can determine what type programs to search for. Supporting organizations in your area often provide free consultation and planning.
Landscape Characteristics
See how your land fits into the broader context of regional conservation, ecosystem services, and working lands' values across the landscape through our interactive mapper tool. It could help you determine which program is a good fit for you!
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