Healthy Soils Program

Please visit the websites below for detailed information.

HSP Incentives Program
HSP Demonstration Projects

Consideration of New Practices Under the HSP (NEW)

CDFA accepted proposals for consideration of new practices to be included for funding under the HSP between June 29, 2020 and August 28, 2020. Details of proposal requirements, process for consideration and submission are available in the Request for Proposals.
Proposals submitted

Public Comments on the HSP 2019-20

Public comments received on the draft solicitation documents for the HSP between December 17, 2019 and January 7, 2020.

CDFA’s responses to public comments

Public comments received on the HSP framework between September 23, 2019 and October 23, 2019.

CDFA’s responses to public comments

What is the CA Healthy Soils Program?

The Healthy Soils Program stems from the California Healthy Soils Initiative, a collaboration of state agencies and departments to promote the development of healthy soils on California's farmlands and ranchlands.

The HSP has two components: the HSP Incentives Program and the HSP Demonstration Projects. The HSP Incentives Program provides financial assistance for implementation of conservation management that improve soil health, sequester carbon and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The HSP Demonstration Projects showcase California farmers and rancher's implementation of HSP practices.

How is the healthy soils program funded?

The Healthy Soils Program is funded from the State’s cap and trade proceeds, also known as California Climate Investments (CCI). The HSP has received $40.5 million in funding from the CCI between 2016 and 2019.

CDFA has also received funding of $10 million from the California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for all Act of 2018.

Which specific soil management practices are eligible for funding?

On farm management practices that include but are not limited to: cover cropping, no-till, reduced-till, mulching, compost application, and conservation plantings.

Who can I contact for more information?

If you have questions about CDFA's healthy soils program please e-mail cdfa.hsp_tech@cdfa.ca.gov.