Sussex district approves $6.45M in conservation cost-share programs
The Sussex Conservation District board of supervisors recently approved more than $6.45 million in cost-share funding for its annual conservation programs. The board allocated $5.2 million for the cover crop program and $1.25 million for the tax ditch program at its August board meeting.
“Both of these programs are essential to the long-term health of Sussex County’s farmland and waterways,” said Debbie Cahall, director of agricultural programs at SCD. “With this support, producers can reduce costs, improve drainage and protect our natural resources.”
This year, SCD received 293 applications for the cover crop program, totaling more than 193,000 acres enrolled — an increase of 2,870 acres compared to last year. The program has a goal of more than 90,000 acres planted and reported this fall, helping farmers improve soil health while keeping nutrients in place over the winter.
Cover crops provide multiple benefits including better soil structure, increased organic matter, nutrient cycling and moisture retention. These improvements boost crop productivity, reduce erosion and enhance water quality.
Tax ditches provide vital drainage infrastructure across Sussex County, with more than 135 organizations maintaining 1,200 miles of channels that provide drainage for 340,000 acres of land. SCD approved $1.25 million in tax ditch cost-share funding this year to support routine maintenance such as mowing, spraying, erosion repair, tree removal and pipe replacement, ensuring ditches continue to function as designed.
Funding for SCD’s cost-share programs is provided by the Delaware General Assembly through the Delaware Department of Agriculture – Nutrient Management Commission, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Non-Point Source Program and Chesapeake Bay Programs, and the Sussex County Council.
For more information on SCD’s conservation cost-share programs, call 302-856-3990, Ext. 3, or visit sussexconservation.org.
