F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture
About
The objectives for the use of cooperative agriculture in the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) are: production or modification of specific cover types or growing methods that meet the life history requirements of species for which we have established objectives (e. g., waterfowl production); production of foods for wildlife species for which we have established objectives; and/or maintenance, rehabilitation, or reestablishment of natural habitat. Cooperative agriculture is when a person or entity conducts agricultural practices on NWRS lands in support of the Service’s conservation and resource management objectives and there is substantial involvement between the Service and that person or entity. The NWRS uses cooperative agreements, known as Cooperative Agriculture Agreements (CAAs), as the legal instruments to formalize the agreement between the Service and the program participant. The cost-sharing of a person or entity in cooperative agricultural on NWRS lands can vary depending on the needs and objectives of the particular NWRS land. For example, the Service may provide the cooperator with the right to perform agricultural practices on NWRS land and a percentage of any resulting crop yield, as well as the ability to use Service water, equipment, and/or refuge staff. In exchange, the cooperator may provide the Service with labor, equipment, and materials; a percentage of any resulting crop yield; and/or maintenance, rehabilitation, or reestablishment of specific habi.
The F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture grant program supports agricultural entrepreneurs and small business entities interested in conducting farming operations on National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) lands. This unique program enables cooperators to engage in agricultural practices that directly support wildlife conservation and habitat management objectives. Participants work collaboratively with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to produce specific cover types, grow crops that provide wildlife food sources, or maintain and rehabilitate natural habitats. The program operates through formal Cooperative Agriculture Agreements (CAAs) that establish mutual responsibilities and cost-sharing arrangements. Depending on refuge-specific needs, the Service may provide access to land, water resources, equipment, and staff support, while cooperators contribute labor, materials, equipment, and crop yields. This is an excellent opportunity for agricultural entrepreneurs seeking to integrate conservation practices into their operations while supporting critical wildlife management goals across the national refuge system. The flexible cost-sharing structure allows agreements tailored to specific refuge objectives, making it accessible to various agricultural business models.
Funding Facts
● Applications openDeadline
March 7, 2029
Award Amount
See listing
Who can apply
Last verified July 5, 2026 · Source: Grants.gov
Grant Details
Funding Range
Varies by project and cost-sharing arrangement
Deadline
2029-03-07
Grant Type
federal
Application Cycle
Pre-application coordination required; deadline March 7, 2029
Best For
Private individuals and small business entities engaged in agricultural practices that support wildlife conservation and habitat management
Eligibility
Applicants must be private individuals or small business entities. Pre-application coordination is required. Environmental impact information is not required for this program. This program is eligible for coverage under E.O. 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs." An applicant should consult the office or official designated as the single point of contact in his or her Sta
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture?
Eligible applicants include private individuals and small business entities. Pre-application coordination with the relevant National Wildlife Refuge is required. For specific eligibility details and to identify your state's designated point of contact for intergovernmental review, consult the official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website or contact your local refuge directly.
How much funding does F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture provide?
Funding amounts are not specified as a fixed grant. Instead, the program operates on a cost-sharing basis where financial arrangements vary depending on the specific needs and objectives of the particular NWRS land. The Service may provide land access, water rights, equipment use, and staff support, while cooperators contribute resources in return. Contact your local refuge for details on cost-sharing specifics for your proposed project.
How do I apply for F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture?
Pre-application coordination is required. Begin by contacting the National Wildlife Refuge where you wish to conduct cooperative agriculture activities. Work with refuge staff to develop a proposal that aligns with their conservation and resource management objectives. The Service will formalize approved arrangements through a Cooperative Agriculture Agreement (CAA). Visit the official U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website for current application procedures and contact information for your regional refuge.
What can F24AS00298 Cooperative Agriculture funding be used for?
Cooperative agriculture activities must support the Service's conservation objectives and may include: producing or modifying specific habitat cover types for wildlife species; growing crops that provide food sources for wildlife with established management objectives; and maintaining, rehabilitating, or reestablishing natural habitats. All agricultural practices must directly contribute to NWRS conservation and resource management goals.
Last updated: July 5, 2026