SACRAMENTO – The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) will begin accepting applications on Sept. 29 for a second round of funding for the State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP), authorized by emergency drought legislation (Senate Bill 103).

SWEEP is a unique opportunity for growers to receive financial assistance to install water distribution systems that save water and reduce greenhouse gases.

Up to $150,000 will be provided directly to agricultural operations for water and energy conservation projects that benefit all Californians. 

The funding can support a broad range of irrigation-related projects such as pump improvements, equipment to facilitate water saving measures and other quantifiable water distribution and greenhouse gas reduction management practices.

Prospective applicants must access the “Application Guidelines” at www.cdfa.ca.go/go/SWEEP for detailed information on eligibility and program requirements.

To streamline and expedite the application process, CDFA is partnering with the State Water Resources Control Board, which hosts an online application using the Financial Assistance Application Submittal Tool (FAAST).

All applicants must register for a FAAST account at https://faast.waterboards.ca.gov .

Growers will be able to access the FAAST application system on Sept. 29 at 8:00 a.m. Applications must be submitted electronically using FAAST by Friday, Nov. 10, at 5 p.m.

CDFA will hold three application workshops and one webinar to provide information on program requirements and the FAAST application process. There is no cost to attend the workshops or webinar.

Individuals planning to attend should email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with their contact information, number of seats required and workshop location.

Fresno – Oct. 6.
1 to 3 p.m.
Fresno County Ag Commissioner Office
1730 S. Maple Ave.
West Wing Conference Room #1
Fresno, CA 93702

San Luis Obispo – Oct. 8
1 to 3 p.m.
San Luis Obispo County Ag Commissioner Office
Auditorium
2156 Sierra Way,
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Sacramento – Oct. 13
10 a.m. to noon
California Department of Food and Agriculture
Auditorium
1220 N St.
Sacramento, CA 95814

Webinar – Oct. 16.
10 a.m. to noon
Webinar Information will be provided upon registration

Prospective applicants may contact CDFA’s Grants Office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with general program questions.