Demonstration Site Application

The Livestock and Land Program is seeking properties to become demonstration sites for implementing Best Management Practices for livestock facilities. Program implementation is a collaborative effort between Ecology Action and the Resource Conservation Districts (RCD) in Santa Cruz, San Benito, South Santa Clara and Monterey Counties.

Applying to become a Demonstration site is a two step process:

1. Fill out the attached application.

2. Contact your local NRCS office (listed below) to schedule a site visit and request assistance with conservation recommendations specific to your property. These recommendations may be incorporated into your site plan, will identify potential projects and assist you with completing a Demonstration Site application.

Download the Demonstration Site Application (PDF)

Upon completion of the two steps listed above, provide the completed application packet consisting of (1) Demonstration Site Application and (2) a site specific Conservation Plan to Ecology Action or your local RCD listed below:

Potential Demonstration Sites will be chosen from complete application packets returned prior to the due date (check with your local RCD for due dates). Application packets will be assessed by a Program Advisory Committee. Criteria for selecting sites includes, but is not limited to: Potential for improvement with regards to degree of impact on water quality; Cost of needed improvements; Level of site owners monetary match; Level of visibility for fellow livestock owners; and feasibility of accommodating a small group on-site. (Please note, only properties located in Santa Cruz, San Benito, South Santa Clara, and Monterey Counties are currently eligible to become demonstration sites)

Attempting to identify the best environment for the animals while lessening their impact on water quality, Technical Advisors will visit eligible sites to assess and prioritize needed improvements with site owners. Upon completion of site visits, Technical Advisors will meet with the Program Advisory Committee to develop a final list of properties to be chosen for Demonstration Site funding. Additional consideration will be awarded to individuals who have attended a workshop series.

Property owners selected as Demonstration Sites agree to match 55% of grant funds expended on site improvements. This can be achieved by labor, materials and/or cash contributions). Landowners must also allow program members (Technical & Stakeholder Advisors, Peer Leaders and other livestock owners) access to the site on pre-arranged dates & times. Property owners are responsible for obtaining any/all necessary permits.

CHECK WITH YOUR LOCAL RCD FOR APPLICATION DEADLINE

Additional information on becoming a Demonstration Site in your area will be provided at our 2010/2011 Workshop Series.