$40 million for drought relief
What is SWEEP?
The State Water Efficiency and Enhancement Program (SWEEP) provides financial assistance in the form of grants to implement irrigation systems that reduce greenhouse gases and save water on California agricultural operations.
How many projects have been funded so far?
CDFA has selected 835 projects to be awarded covering over 137,000 acres. $81.1 million has been awarded to date, with more than $52.8 million in matching funds contributed by awardees.
What types of projects are eligible?
Eligible system components include (among others) soil moisture monitoring, drip systems, switching to low pressure irrigation systems, pump retrofits, variable frequency drives and installation of renewable energy to reduce on-farm water use and energy.
What have been the benefits of SWEEP?
Along with helping farmers and ranchers save water and reduce their energy costs, SWEEP results in environmental benefits as well. CDFA estimates that over 81,000 metric tons of CO2e will be reduced annually, the equivalent of removing 17,500 cars from the road for one year (based on emissions reductions equivalent). Moreover, SWEEP projects will help save over 117,000 acre-ft of water annually, enough to fill over 70,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools.