Applications due August 13, 2018.  (Future grant rounds due November 7, 2018 and February 6, 2019). The Vermont Farm & Forest Viability Program, a program of the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, has grant funds available for farmers to complete capital improvement projects. Eligible farmers can apply for Water Quality Grants or Dairy Improvement Grants, both of which provide grants of $5,000 to $40,000. Water Quality Grants are for  projects that require capital expenditures for on-farm improvements in the following areas that also have direct, positive impacts on water quality are eligible for funding: construction, renovation, or upgrades to farm infrastructure or purchase of equipment that will be used frequently; is essential to the business; cannot be rented; and leads to innovative farm practices. Matching funds are required for both programs and may include federal or state grants as well as cash or loans.