Updated 08/15/2011

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Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative (CBWI)

Under CBWI, eligible landowners can use available technical and financial assistance to address soil erosion, sedimentation, and excess nutrients in streams and waterways, as well as other related natural resource concerns such as air quality, wetlands, wildlife habitat, and forestry.

Apply Now!

Applications for CBWI are accepted continuously throughout the year to be evaluated, ranked, and prioritized based on their potential to control erosion and reduce sediment and nutrient levels in local waters and the Chesapeake Bay. Applications will be collected and evaluated on a monthly basis until funds are exhausted.

To apply, complete the NRCS-CPA-1200 Application Form and Appendix, which is available online at USDA Service Center Agencies eForms or may be obtained through the local USDA Service Center. Completed forms can be submitted in person, e-mailed (must include signature), faxed, or mailed to a local USDA Service Center.

Eligibility

Pennsylvania agricultural producers and owners of land being operated by agricultural producers, located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed may apply. Some watersheds in Pennsylvania are designated as high priority watersheds in this initiative because they have high yields of nitrogen, phosphorus, intense agricultural operations, and local water quality impairments.

Click here to see a map of Pennsylvania's portion of the Chesapeake Bay watershed and the priority watersheds.

Availability

The 2008 Farm Bill authorized funding for CBWI from 2009 through 2012. Farmers interested in CBWI funding are encouraged to apply now to be considered for 2012 funding.