Stimulating the adoption of managed grazing practices on dairy farms by evaluating the impact of innovative precision AG technology and data-driven technical assistance to enhance farm profitability

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), a civilian agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), awarded a $4,999,549 Project Grant to Dairy Grazing Alliance, Inc. (doing business as Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship) under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (CFDA 10.912). This 5-year grant, effective from September 1, 2024 to August 12, 2029, aims to stimulate the adoption of managed grazing practices on dairy farms by evaluating the impact of innovative precision agriculture technology and data-driven technical assistance to enhance farm profitability.

The key products and services to be delivered under this grant include: deploying grazing specialists, developing farm transfer protocols, delivering technical assistance and training on sustainable grazing practices, implementing precision agriculture technologies, and creating resources to enhance the profitability of dairy farming operations. The grant will enable Dairy Grazing Alliance to collaborate with academic and agricultural institutions to expand the reach and impact of these initiatives across multiple states, with a particular focus on Wisconsin and the northeastern United States. The project seeks to support beginning farmers, promote climate-smart agricultural practices, and improve overall farm management and sustainability.