Financial and environmental assistance planning grants are available through the Dairy Advancement Program (DAP). DAP is designed to enhance long-term viability of New York dairy farms while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Eligible projects assist New York dairy farmers to position their farm for long-term economic and environmental sustainability. Funds are used to engage specialists for financial analysis and to create business plans, to establish an advisory team, and to develop farmstead environmental plans, including design of practices outlined in the farm comprehensive nutrient management plan.
DAP covers 80 percent of the project cost. The farm is responsible for 20 percent, and any amount exceeding the award value.
Financial planning
Up to $5,000 available (for small to midsize dairy cattle farms). Projects include but are not limited to:
- Implementation of a new recordkeeping system (e.g. QuickBooks, DC 305)
- Business planning
- Operational planning
Advisory team
Up to $3,000 for farms who wish to implement an advisory team for the first time. Project includes:
- A team of advisors to assist with improvement in specific areas of farm performance
Environmental planning
Up to $10,000 available. Projects include but are not limited to:
- Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (update or new) for dairy cattle farms under the medium CAFO size.
- Design of eligible best management practices (e.g. waste storage, waste transfer, VTA) for dairy cattle farms or heifer boarding operations under the large CAFO size.
Business planning funds are provided by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. Environmental planning funds are provided through the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and the Environmental Protection Fund.The program is coordinated through Cornell PRO-DAIRY and delivered to farms in partnership with Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) and agriservice professionals.
