Minnesota Grants Available to Improve Soil Health

Minnesota Offers Grants to Enhance Soil Health Across the State Application Period Open from August 1 to August 29 ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has announced the opening of applications for its Soil Health Financial Assistance Program grants, available from August 1 through August 29. These grants are designed to support individual farmers, cooperative groups, and local governments in acquiring or upgrading equipment aimed at improving soil health. Funding covers up to half of the costs, with awards ranging from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $45,000. A total of $4.36 million is allocated statewide for this funding cycle, sourced from the 2025 Minnesota Legislature and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The department is also monitoring potential adjustments to federal funding allocations due to policy shifts under the Trump administration. "The Soil Health Financial Assistance Grant helps offset equipment expenses and encourages more farmers to adopt practices that enhance soil quality, benefiting Minnesota’s water resources and environment," stated MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. Eligible equipment includes, but is not limited to, no-till drills, a...