Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2004DE39B

Assisting Small and Underserved Farmers in Meeting Water Quality Objectives

Institute: Delaware
Year Established: 2004 Start Date: 2004-06-01 End Date: 2005-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $3,500 Total Non-Federal Funds: $7,000

Principal Investigators: Dennis McIntosh

Abstract: From years past,there has slowly been a decline in the number of small farms. As a result, these smaller farms become more isolated and consequently, less unaware of their eligibility for government assistance. Another problem facing these farms is a lack of understanding available information on protecting their water resources. Due to limited education and a use of inadequate operational practices these underserved farms may not be well protected from various contaminants that could adversely affect their health and the quality of their farmland. The objective of this project is to assist underserved farmers that may have existing water quality problems. By identifying the location and the demographics of the farms, resources can be located that may provide help protecting water quality within their communities. This project will also build upon existing USDA Small Farms programs providing information in community workshops and sharing strategies to meet state/federal water quality compliance requirements.