Lansing, Michigan — The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD), together with local conservation districts and partners, has relaunched the Michigan Conservation Stewardship for Farmers Project (MCSFP), a cost-share program focused on helping farmers make practical improvements on their farms.
Previously known as the Michigan Climate Smart Farms Project, the program has been redesigned to place more funding directly into on-farm investments while reducing administrative requirements and complex reporting. The goal is straightforward: fewer barriers and more support for farmers working to strengthen their operations and the land they steward.
MCSFP is currently hiring staff, finalizing regional funding allocations, and preparing updated guidance and application materials. Farmer enrollment is expected to open in Spring 2026 on a rolling basis.
Initial funding will support farmers in southeast Michigan and the Detroit region, including Washtenaw, Monroe, Lenawee, and Hillsdale counties, along with Detroit-area farms working with Keep Growing Detroit. Local conservation district staff and partners will provide outreach, application assistance, and technical support.
Supported projects are expected to include soil and water management practices, infrastructure and operational improvements, energy efficiency upgrades, and other investments that improve farm resilience and long-term viability. The program prioritizes small and mid-sized farms, including specialty crop, livestock, mixed-use, and urban operations.
Farmers can prepare now by confirming they have a USDA Farm Service Agency farm number, identifying potential projects, and connecting with their local conservation district contact.
For general program questions, contact:
Megan Phillips Goldenberg
Development Manager, Washtenaw County Conservation District
goldenbergm@washtenawcd.org | 734-302-8715
More information and updates will be shared as enrollment approaches in Spring 2026.
About the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts
The Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) is a statewide nonprofit
organization representing and supporting all Conservation Districts in Michigan. MACD provides
advocacy, training, technical assistance, and coordination to strengthen local conservation
delivery and advance water quality, soil health, and natural resource protection across the state.
Media Contact:
Rivka Hodgkinson
Executive Director, MACD
Executive.Director@macd.org