EWP buyout spring 2025 flood, DSR 21-05-25-5082-005 in martin county, KY for implementation of recovery measures and obstruction removal

The Department of Agriculture National Resources Conservation Service awarded a $5.72 million Cooperative Agreement to Martin County, Kentucky on September 30, 2025 under the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (CFDA 10.923) to implement recovery measures and remove obstructions following spring 2025 flooding in Martin County.

The award funds emergency recovery work to relieve imminent hazards to life and property created by the natural disaster. Martin County Fiscal Court, the recipient, is responsible for accomplishing installation of the work and furnishing local cost-share. Performance extends through October 7, 2026 and is located in Kentucky.

The Emergency Watershed Protection Program assists project sponsors, landowners, and operators in implementing emergency measures for runoff retardation and erosion prevention. Eligible activities include practices that safeguard lives and property and relieve imminent threats resulting from sudden watershed impairment due to natural disaster. Project sponsors—defined to include state and local government entities—must apply to the state conservationist within 60 days of disaster occurrence and enter into a Cooperative Agreement with NRCS before receiving funds. NRCS will not fund activities undertaken by a sponsor prior to agreement execution. Records of operation are maintained for the life of the project.