By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding is encouraging farmers across the state to apply for $13 million in available tax credits designed to support conservation improvements that strengthen soil health and protect water quality.
During Pennsylvania No-Till Alliance’s Soil Health Field Day at Flinchbaugh Orchard, Secretary Redding highlighted the benefits of the state’s Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program.
The initiative helps farmers invest in conservation practices while supporting long-term farm sustainability and profitability.
REAP tax credits can be combined with other financial assistance programs, including the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program, Conservation Excellence Grants, and federal conservation funding.
These resources help farmers implement projects that improve environmental outcomes while protecting their ability to maintain successful operations for future generations.
“More than ever, Pennsylvania farmers are investing their own resources in cleaner water and productive soil to sustain us in the future,” Secretary Redding said.
“Their dollars, multiplied by support from historic levels of investment under the Shapiro Administration, are paying off in the form of healthier waterways and a greener future for Pennsylvania farms and communities. The visionary leadership of the Pennsylvania No-Till Alliance and farm families like the Flinchbaughs is no small part of that greener future.”
Applications for REAP tax credits open August 1, 2026, through Pennsylvania’s State Conservation Commission. Eligible agricultural producers can receive support for projects that reduce nutrient runoff, prevent soil erosion, improve soil health, and protect water resources.
Pennsylvania farmers currently use no-till practices on more than 1.2 million acres, representing nearly half of the state’s farmland. Conservation methods such as no-till farming and cover crops help improve soil quality, reduce input costs, increase productivity, and contribute to healthier waterways, including the Chesapeake Bay watershed.
The Flinchbaugh family, which manages more than 1,700 acres within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, has used conservation practices for decades. During the field day, farmers viewed equipment and methods supported through REAP and other conservation programs.
Since its launch, REAP has provided more than $200 million in state tax credits for over 10,000 conservation projects on approximately 4,000 farms. These efforts have helped reduce millions of pounds of nutrients and sediment entering Pennsylvania waterways.
Farmers can receive tax credits covering 50% to 75% of eligible project costs, with some qualifying projects receiving up to 90% support. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding may be limited before the October 31, 2026, deadline.
For more information, https://www.pa.gov/services/pda/apply-for-the-resource-enhancement---protection--reap--program.
Photo Credit: pexels-nataliya-vaitkevich
Categories: Pennsylvania, General, Government & Policy