Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced today that the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Agricultural Regional Projects Program is now accepting applications for $25 million in grant funding.
This key initiative aims to foster regional, collaborative projects that will lead to science-based improvements in agricultural water quality and quantity across the state.
Commissioner Simpson championed the program, emphasizing the vital role of Florida’s agricultural community in conservation efforts.
“Protecting Florida’s water resources is essential to our state’s future — and Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers are central to that mission,” Simpson said. He added that the program is designed to build “strong partnerships” to deliver real, innovative solutions.
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The program, led by FDACS’ Office of Agricultural Water Policy, specifically targets nonpoint source pollution from agricultural activities.
It encourages collaboration among agricultural producers, water management districts, local governments, educational institutions, and conservation groups to implement large-scale projects that support both environmental protection and the long-term sustainability of Florida’s agriculture industry.
Funding from the Agricultural Regional Projects Program will be allocated to projects that align with several key objectives, including:
- Reducing nitrogen and phosphorus to meet or exceed water quality standards.
- Improving both water quality and quantity.
- Promoting innovative nutrient management technologies.
- Aligning with Florida’s long-term agricultural sustainability goals.
A broad range of entities are eligible to apply, including:
- Private landowners or entities.
- Local governmental entities proposing to address agricultural nonpoint source pollution.
- Water management districts, soil and water conservation districts, educational institutions, or conservation groups.
Interested parties must submit their applications by 5 p.m. EST on November 7, 2025. Full program guidelines, eligibility requirements, and additional information are available on the FDACS website at FDACS.gov.
This grant initiative represents a significant investment by the state into securing Florida’s critical water resources through partnerships with the agricultural sector.
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