CDFA update – click here for more information.
12/19/2023: Unfortunately, due to current budget uncertainties, CDFA is pausing the current SWEEP Direct-to-Producer solicitation. We will provide an update on the status of this solicitation in early 2024 through our email subscription list. We deeply apologize to those who have already started applications and we will contact you directly when we have more information about the program status.
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At FGS, we understand the need to make the most of every drop of water. That’s why we launched our irrigation department over 35 years ago. Since that time, we’ve done much more than develop cutting-edge, custom-designed crop irrigation systems for thousands of our clients — we’ve begun installing those systems ourselves, too, thanks to our in-house labor crew. After all, maintaining proper irrigation in California requires innovation and growth, and we’re proud to be growing alongside our customers.
California’s SWEEP program can offer assistance to our customers, too. Governor Brown introduced the program in 2014, bringing emergency drought legislation to a state whose agricultural community was reeling from years of dry weather. Since that time, SWEEP has awarded more than $123 million to farmers and ranchers willing to invest in irrigation systems that save water, cut back on greenhouse gas emissions, and improve the environment. Eligible projects have included soil moisture monitoring, drip systems, switching to low-pressure irrigation systems, pump retrofits, variable frequency drives, and installation of renewable energy to reduce on-farm water use.
If your growing operation could use some financial help, there’s good news — the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) recently opened, and then paused, their window for SWEEP grants. Applications (now on hold) must be turned in by 5 pm Pacific Time on January 19, 2024, and individuals can apply for a maximum grant of $200,000.
The SWEEP application can be found here, and FGS is here to help. We have 35 years of experience in the irrigation field, from system design to installation. We foster long-term relationships with our customers, offering ongoing support with initiatives like our Water Treatment Preventive Maintenance Program. Sam Baldivia, our irrigation sales manager, even spends most of his springtime months in the field, traveling to different growing operations to help his customers diagnose any issues with their systems. In a state where every single drop counts, we’re here to make the most of your water supply.
Call or contact us today to talk with an irrigation expert about your water needs. We can discuss SWEEP-appropriate plans and put you on the path toward water conservation. After all, our operation is based in California, just like yours, and we’re dedicated to conserving the natural resources of our home. Let’s get you watered!