MDA Tree Planting Incentive
The Tree Planting Incentive is a bonus program that provides additional funding for individuals who are enrolled in an MDA Tree planting cost-share program. In order to take advantage of this program, individuals need to apply for cost-share funding from the MDA MAC’s program and be accepted into the program. As part of that program, a conservation plan needs to be completed by the Garrett Soil Conservation District. There is no cost for this plan, but there is a waiting list. To begin the process, individuals should contact the Garrett Soil Conservation District at 301-501-5886 or at seth.metheny1@maryland.gov.
To qualify for MACS individuals need to have at least 8 animal units. However, if you do not have 8 animal units, and you are searching for grant funding for tree planting, there is another program through NRCS Forestry funding. Contact Jacob Metcalf for NRCS Forestry at 301-501-5886 or jacob.metcalf@usda.gov.
About the MDA Tree Planting Incentive Bonus Program
Maryland Department of Agriculture is offering a new tree planting bonus program. The bonus is available to farmers and landowners who install qualifying conservation practices financed through the Maryland Agricultural Water Quality Cost-Share program. The incentive aims to help Maryland achieve its ambitious tree-planting goal to capture greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
Under the new incentive program, eligible farmers will receive $2 for each new tree planted as part of an approved conservation practice that began April 1, 2023. The bonus payment will be provided when the conservation practice is fully installed. This payment is in addition to the regular cost-share rate for the qualifying practice. It is available for the following conservation practices:
- Windbreak Establishment – $2 per tree plus up to 100% cost-share
- Silvopasture – $2 per tree plus up to 87.5% cost-share
- Riparian Forest Buffer – $2 per tree plus up to 100% cost-share
- Hedgerow Planting – $2 per tree plus up to 100% cost-share
- Tree and Shrub Establishment – $2 per tree plus up to 100% cost-share
Interested farmers should visit our office at Garrett Soil Conservation District, 1916 Maryland Hwy, Ste C, Mt. Lake Park, MD or call 301-501-5886 to apply for cost-share funding and to receive free technical assistance to install new practices. Applicants must be in good standing with the program and in compliance with Maryland’s nutrient management regulations to be eligible. Other restrictions may apply.
When contacting our office please tell us that you are interested in the new Bonus Program for tree plantings with MDA.