Grazing Infrastructure Cost-Share

***We hope to offer additional funding for the grazing infrastructure cost-share in fall 2025. Check back on this page or subscribe to Monthly Feedstuff or weekly Practical News so you don’t miss the announcement!

The grazing cost-share supports aspiring or existing graziers who wish to adopt regenerative grazing practices that improve forage, soil and water quality. The cost-share also helps them expand their livestock enterprises through improved grazing management.

Farmers will receive up to $2,500 to purchase portable, temporary fencing supplies; water transport and distribution supplies; and limited portable housing for grazing livestock.

This round of funding is limited to beginning farmers as defined by USDA. However, anyone may apply as we are seeking additional funding sources for this program. We will keep your application on file and notify you if other funding becomes available.

Download our grazing infrastructure factsheet to learn about the impact cost-share projects had on previous recipient farms.

Funding Basics and Common Questions

I am not an Iowa resident. Can I still apply?

Our current funding opportunity is for Iowa residents only.

However, because we are pursuing other funds, we will accept applications from farmers in other states. If or when more flexible funds become available, we will reopen the application and will also review those already submitted. Applying earlier does not increase your likelihood of being selected; it simply lets you do it now and not have to worry about it later.

What does “EQIP eligible” mean? How do I know if I’m eligible?

In short, EQIP eligibility means you have registered your farm ownership with USDA-FSA and have a farm or tract number; and that if you’re going to graze any land, you are certain that you will have access to it for the duration of this project. Because our funding is federally-derived, participants receiving those funds will have to adhere to both EQIP eligibility and NRCS fence rules. We will help walk you through all of these requirements.

Is virtual fencing allowed?

No – at this time, virtual fence cannot be purchased with these funds.

Qualifications

To qualify:

Be a member of Practical Farmers of Iowa.
Be eligible for EQIP payments.
You may not use these funds to pay for equipment or infrastructure that is also being cost-shared through an EQIP contract.

If accepted, you agree to:

Use funds to purchase mobile fence and water infrastructure and turn in receipts.
Track and share basic economic and production data.
Complete an annual cost-share program survey.
Comply with NRCS fence standards.

Questions?

Contact our livestock farm viability manager, Margaret Chamas, by emailing margaret.chamas(at)practicalfarmers(dot)org or by calling the office at (515) 232-5661.

Sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter, The Monthly Feedstuff, to stay up to date on grazing and livestock cost-share news, upcoming events, the latest research and more.