The Marin RCD’s Conserving Our Watersheds (COW) Program is designed to help landowners implement environmental improvements. Marin RCD is looking for projects in the Tomales Bay watershed thatinstall rangeland practices to reduce pathogen concentrations from entering the watershed, then please apply!
The applications is here: Application for COW PATI grant and are due September 18, 2017.
Who was eligible?
All agricultural producers with projects in the Tomales Bay watershed can apply.
Solicitation notices (postcards) were sent to landowners in the Tomales Bay watershed notifying landowners of available funding.
What are the priorities for this funding round?
The priority for this grant is to fund the implementation of rangeland practices that reduce pathogen concentrations of the Tomales Bay watershed.
What is the process?
The following process takes 9 to 15 months (project dependent):
- Assess if you have a project that meets the priorities above.
- Submit an application after discussing your project with Marin RCD staff to make sure your project is eligible,.
- Marin RCD will arrange a site visit with you to take photos and complete a brief write up on your project.
- A Technical Advisory Committee will review, visit and rank all projects against a Selection Criteria, the first week of May.
- The Technical Advisory Committee will recommend projects to Marin RCD Board for funding.
- Projects go in front of the Marin RCD Board.
- Projects that are approved by the Marin RCD Board will then move into the design phase including (planning, permitting, etc.). Another site visit will need to occur with the engineer.
- Once projects are designed and approved by the landowner, the Marin RCD Board will approve the design into construction phase.
- Projects approved for construction cannot be constructed until all necessary environmental documentation and procedures (biological trainings and archaegological surveys) have been complete, permits (if necessary) are secured.
What does the program cover?
The funding will cover 100% of permit costs, 100% of design costs and 75% of construction costs. Marin RCD will pay 100% of costs for the installation of a riparian planting (native trees, shrubs, willow stakes and juncus). The remaining construction contributions must come from the landowner, NRCS and/or MALT.
Why should I apply?
This service can help you reach your ranch plan goals by implementing land stewardship practices.
What USDA NRCS practices are eligible for funding through Marin RCD?
Marin RCD can help landowners plan, design, permit and install the following pracitces:
- Critial planting areas
- Riparian fencing
- Water/spring developments (if a water source is being fenced out)
- Filter strips
- Grassed and lined waterways
- Livestock crossing and walkways
- Sediment basins
- Grade stabilization
- Streambank Protection
- Acces road (repair to protect water quality)
- Fish passage projects
Where are thefunds coming from?
Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Water Act 319(h) through the State Water Resources Control Board