A state program that will help farmers offset the cost of purchasing and retrofitting equipment needed to improve soil health has begun accepting applications.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Soil Health Financial Assistance Pilot Program will accept applications through March 20. The program was established in 2022 by the state Legislature thanks in part to grassroots advocacy by Minnesota corn farmers.

The program will reimburse farmers for up to half the cost of purchasing or retrofitting equipment. Examples of eligible equipment include no-till drills, air seeders, high boys, variable-rate equipment, retrofit projects to convert corn detasslers to high boys, and more.

The state has allocated $475,000 to the program in 2023. Grants can range from $500 to $50,000.

Click here to learn more about the program and apply.