Project is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the region’s agricultural landscape
As part of this initiative, the UCSWCD will also purchase a row mulcher which will help reduce soil erosion and a 12’ no-till drill, which will be used for seeding cover crops, essential tools for promoting soil health by minimizing soil disturbance. (Courtesy photo)
HIGHLAND, N.Y. — The Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District (UCSWCD) has been awarded $166,400 by New York State to support a multi-farm initiative aimed at enhancing soil health management. This funding will assist a variety of farms, including organic producers, in implementing critical conservation practices to promote long-term sustainability and productivity.
The awarded funds will enable the farms to adopt best management practices (BMPs) such as cover cropping and reduced tillage, both proven strategies for improving soil health, reducing erosion, and increasing organic matter. These practices are vital for long-term environmental and agricultural sustainability, helping farmers maintain productivity while reducing their environmental impact.
As part of this initiative, the UCSWCD will also purchase a row mulcher which will help reduce soil erosion and a 12’ no-till drill, which will be used for seeding cover crops, essential tools for promoting soil health by minimizing soil disturbance. The row mulcher and the no-till drill will be available to Ulster County farms, providing them with the equipment necessary to support more sustainable soil management techniques.
In addition, this project will bring on new participants, underscoring the District’s commitment to expanding its reach and supporting more farms in the region. By engaging new farmers and offering access to BMPs and specialized equipment, the UCSWCD continues its mission of helping local agriculture thrive while protecting the environment.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant from New York State, which will enable us to work with a diverse group of farmers to advance soil health practices,” said Jake Wedemeyer, Executive Director of UCSWCD. “Investing in these types of sustainable practices benefits not only the farms but also the broader community by improving water quality, increasing carbon sequestration, and contributing to the health of our ecosystems.”
The project is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the region’s agricultural landscape, providing participating farms with the tools and knowledge they need to sustain healthy, productive soil for years to come.
For more information on the project or to learn how to get involved, please contact the Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District at 845-883-7162 ext. 3 or visit
–Ulster County Soil and Water Conservation District
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