Grants Hub
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.
Maine 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 $25,000 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.
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 →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 →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.
View Program →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 →Farm Service Agency (FSA)
FSAFSA delivers federal farm programs including loans, conservation reserves, disaster assistance, and support for agricultural producers.
FSA Conservation Loans
Low-interest direct or guaranteed loans to cover upfront costs for NRCS-approved conservation practices (e.g., equipment, irrigation, fencing tied to EQIP/CSP projects). Bridge the gap until NRCS reimbursements arrive. Favorable terms for beginning/underserved producers; contact local FSA for details and coordination with NRCS plans.
Learn More →FSA Programs & Services Portal
Browse all FSA programs including loan programs, conservation reserve programs, and disaster assistance for agricultural producers. Visit your local Hancock County FSA office or the national portal.
Visit FSA →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.
Download Application →Field Production Table — Multiple Fields
Required supplemental sheet for Emergency Viability Grant applicants with multiple fields. Complete one table per field and submit with your application by March 18, 2026.
Download Form →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 PartnersRegional and state programs that complement federal and state conservation funding.
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 →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.