Livestock & Equine Conservation Grants
Grants are available to help small-scale equine and livestock operations—with at least 1,000 pounds of live animal weight—install conservation practices on farmland to protect local water quality.
Funding is provided by the Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share (MACS) Program. MACS has a proven track record of helping farmers protect the natural resources that support healthy farms. Whether you have one qualifying animal or several, this is your chance to secure cost-share funding for your conservation project!
Rein in your environmental impact
- Does your pasture need a makeover?
- Are mud and manure making life miserable for you and your animals?
- MACS funds many types of conservation practices.
- MACS grants can help you control soil erosion and runoff, improve pasture health, and protect the health of local streams and the Chesapeake Bay.
- You can apply for our grants through your local soil conservation district office where you’ll get free professional help and advice every step of the way
Cost-share solutions for your small farm
MACS cost-share reimbursement rates vary based on the conservation practice and its environmental benefit. Explore our menu of options below:
Pasture management (up to 87.5%)
- Establishes forage species on converted cropland.
- Controls erosion and improves soil and water quality.
- Reduces toxic weeds.
Pasture fencing (up to 50%)
- Interior fencing for rotational grazing systems.
Exclusion fencing (up to 100%) and crossings (up to 87.5%)
- These practices help prevent livestock from damaging streambanks and vegetation.
- They reduce the risk of water-borne diseases in livestock.
- Additionally, they improve stream health and fish and wildlife habitat.
Roof runoff structure (up to 87.5%)
- Gutters, downspouts, and outlets prevent rainwater runoff from mixing with manure.
- Protects building foundations.
- Allows water to be collected and reused
Waste storage structure (up to 87.5%)
- Provides safe, dry storage for animal manure.
- Protects water quality.
- Allows for field application of manure.
Watering facility (up to 87.5%)
- Provides a safe, clean, reliable water source away from streams.
- Works well with exclusion fencing.
Heavy use area protection (up to 87.5%)
- Artificial surfaces stabilize areas frequently used by livestock.
- Reduces soil erosion and mud.
- Helps prevent hoof problems.
Riparian forest buffer (up to 100%)
- Planting trees next to waterways improves water quality, provides shade for animals, and creates wildlife habitat.
- Trees store carbon, filter the air, and beautify the landscape.
How to apply for our grants
Local soil conservation districts are ready to answer your questions, provide free technical assistance, and help you apply for our conservation grants.