Here you will find funding opportunities from our state and federal partners to support conservation, forestry, agriculture, and soil health across Hancock County. Grant availability changes frequently. Always verify current deadlines directly with the administering agency before applying.
Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry
DACFDACF administers state and federal grant programs for farmers, landowners, municipalities, and nonprofits throughout Maine.
Maine Healthy Soils Program
No-cost soil health testing, Soil Health Implementation Grants, and Technical Assistance Capacity Grants for agricultural producers.
View Program →Maine Farms for the Future
Two-phase competitive program providing business planning assistance (Phase 1) and low-interest loans / grants up to 5,000 for capital investment (Phase 2).
View Program →Specialty Crop Block Grant Program
Federally funded grants enhancing competitiveness of specialty crops including wild blueberries, fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, horticulture, and nursery crops. RFP typically released in February.
View Program →Natural Resources Disaster Relief
Compensation for crop, timber, and livestock losses from 2023–2024 weather events. Covers specialty crop farms and small/medium producers.
View Program →Land for Maine's Future
Conservation easement and land acquisition grants protecting working farms, forests, and natural areas. Awards up to 50% of appraised value with required match.
View Program →Full DACF Grant Listing
Browse all current state and federal grants administered by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry.
Browse All →Maine Forest Service
MFSMFS programs support sustainable woodland management, community forestry, and forest health for private landowners and municipalities.
WoodsWise Forest Management Plans
Cost-share reimbursement up to 50% for developing a forest management plan. Plans are also eligible for use as Tree Growth tax plans.
Maine Forest Service →Project Canopy — Community Forestry Grants
Grants for urban and community forestry projects including tree planting, maintenance, and management plans. 50% match required for Assistance grants; none for Restoration grants.
View Program →Free Woodland Meetings
Schedule a no-cost on-site visit with an MFS District Forester for professional advice on managing your woodland and accessing cost-share programs.
Learn More →USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
NRCSThe NRCS helps farmers and private landowners conserve soil, water, and other natural resources.
Environmental Quality Incentives (EQIP)
Financial and technical assistance for practices that improve soil, water quality, and wildlife habitat — including erosion control, timber stand improvement, and water management.
View Program →Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Incentive payments for maintaining and improving existing conservation practices on eligible land. Rewards ongoing stewardship efforts.
View Program →Agricultural Conservation Easement (ACEP)
Protects agricultural lands and wetlands through permanent or long-term easements, allowing landowners to continue farming.
View Program →Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine
WBCMThe Commission supports Maine's wild blueberry producers — primarily in Hancock, Washington, Knox, and Waldo counties — through research, extension, and promotion.
Wild Blueberry Industry Emergency Viability Grant
$1.3 million in short-term relief for Maine wild blueberry producers impacted by the 2025 growing season. All eligible active producers in good standing who submit a complete application will receive an award. Calculated proportionally based on verified production history.
Download Application →Specialty Crop Block Grants — Blueberry Projects
DACF's SCBGP frequently funds blueberry-specific research and production improvement projects in partnership with UMaine. Growers and organizations may apply or partner.
View SCBGP →Additional Resources
Other PartnersFederal and regional programs that complement state conservation funding.
USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA)
Loan programs, conservation reserve programs, and disaster assistance for agricultural producers. Visit your local FSA office or the national portal.
Visit FSA →Maine Woodland Owners — Cost Share
MWO works with NRCS to help forest owners understand and access all available cost-share programs, with support from a dedicated forestry outreach coordinator.
Learn More →Farmers Drought Relief Fund
Grants for farmers to develop agricultural water management plans and install water sources including dug wells, drilled wells, and water storage ponds. 2026 applications closed February 13 — check back for 2027.
View Program →Need help finding the right program?
The District can help you navigate grant eligibility, connect with partner agency staff, and help identify funding that fits your conservation goals.