San Joaquin County dairy operators planning manure management improvements have until 5 p.m. Pacific on Monday, September 14, 2026, to apply for California’s Dairy Plus Program. CDFA currently lists the program as open. View the official program announcement and application resources.
This funding round offers approximately $34 million statewide, with individual grants capped at $750 per cow and $1.25 million per project. Eligible commercial dairies throughout San Joaquin County can apply under the statewide rules. Awards are competitive. Check the funding and eligibility rules.
Who qualifies?
The project must be at a commercial California dairy operation, and recipients must have a physical California business address and the required USDA Farm Service Agency registration.
Applicants need an existing or in-progress qualifying manure management system. This can include systems supported by California’s Alternative Manure Management Program or Dairy Digester Research and Development Program, as well as approved equivalent practices—even when those systems did not receive state funding. Read the eligibility FAQs.
What can the funding cover?
The program supports approved improvements that reduce methane emissions and address nitrogen and salt surplus. Examples include advanced manure separation and filtration systems.
Matching funds are not required. However, grants are paid through reimbursement, so owners need to plan for upfront expenses. Spending must fall within the approved grant period. Review project requirements and payment terms.
How to prepare and apply
Start with the application materials on the Dairy Plus program page. Available templates cover the project description, work plan, water-quality improvements, budget and environmental benefits calculations.
Under “Apply Online,” follow the link to CDFA’s application system, create an account or sign in, and select the 2026 Dairy Plus Program opportunity.
Need help?
Free one-on-one technical assistance may be available. For help finding an appropriate adviser, contact Denise Mullinax at 209-585-6744 or [email protected], using “Dairy Plus TA” in the subject line. The California Dairy Research Foundation’s resource page also provides application assistance and webinar links.
With the deadline approaching, owners should check project eligibility and gather the required materials promptly.