The program is part of the Farm Bill and reimburses me for certain funds spent installing an irrigation system that avoids using valuable ground water (county water) which is in sort supply here.

The program reviewed my finances to ensure that I had the where-for-all to pay for substancial costs before I would be paid back. Once I passed that hurdle, an engineer met with me to discuss my farm. I was irrigating the farm for macadamia nuts and wanted to plant coffee. He reviewed my plans and then performed a GPS survey of the property. He made up a plan to use rainwater from the roof of my house and garage to fill a water holding tank. Excess water would be stored in 3 other tanks at the top of the property (altitude-wise).

Water from the tanks would be used to water the crops during times when we do not get enough rain. The plan also calls for cover crops, managing watering amounts and fertilizer to ensure that there is no runoff or waste.

As I finish certain milestones, I get paid back a percentage of my costs, up to the limit of my contract. Of course, should I not fulfil the contract, I must repay any monies paid by the government.

The nice thing about this system is that it has been professionally engineered and installed and I have been careful to ensure that even my part was done properly :-) The system will enhance the farm and should I ever dcide to sell, it will be a great addition and has already increased the cost-basis of the property.

For those who want more details, here is a link: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/PROG...