Conservation cost-share program benefits homeowners and HOAs

The Sussex Conservation District  is launching a new Community Conservation Assistance Program aimed at helping homeowners and homeowner associations implement conservation practices that improve water quality and reduce stormwater runoff in residential and community settings.

The program expands SCD’s conservation services beyond agriculture, providing technical assistance and financial support for voluntary, small-scale projects on non-agricultural lands throughout Sussex County.

Through CCAP, eligible projects may receive 75% reimbursement of approved project costs, up to a maximum of $7,500, for conservation practices designed to reduce nonpoint source pollution and enhance local habitats. Potential projects may include rain gardens, conservation landscaping, tree planting, stormwater facility enhancements and other best management practices.

“Communities play an important role in protecting our local waterways,” said Jessica Watson, director of the sediment and stormwater program. “This program gives homeowners and HOAs the tools and support they need to be part of the solution while advancing broader conservation goals across Sussex County.”

All Sussex County landowners and homeowner associations are eligible to participate. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed as funding allows.

Interested participants must complete an online interest form to begin the process. Submitting the form does not guarantee funding, but allows SCD staff to evaluate site conditions, determine eligibility and identify appropriate conservation practices.

The new program reflects SCD’s ongoing commitment to delivering locally driven conservation solutions that benefit residents, communities and the environment.

To learn more, go to sussexconservation.org and tinyurl.com/scd-ccap.