The program would allow MC operators to address existing resource concerns such as nutrient runoff to surface waters and leaching into groundwater.
If the program is authorized, applicants would seek funds for unique, site-specific conservation practices that work in combination as conservation system(s) to address resource concerns from mushroom compost operations within the identified watersheds.
The proposed program is needed because the composting of residual substrate material can contribute to pollutant loading in downstream surface waterbodies and groundwater.
Since MC operators typically do not qualify for traditional NRCS Farm Bill Assistance Programs, the proposed action would authorize an NRCS cost-share program to address water resource concerns from MC sites.
The various alternatives analyzed and proposed for the potential program are described in detail in the plan.
NRCS has partnered with the Chester County Commissioners and the Chester County Conservation District (referred to as sponsors). The agency has worked with these sponsors to develop the plan to implement the program.
The total estimated program installation cost is estimated to be $12,400,000, of which approximately $9,500,000 would be paid from the Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations Program and $2,900,000 from local funds.
Hard copies of the Watershed Project Plan are available at the Chester County Conservation District in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania and at the American Mushroom Institute, Avondale, PA.
The plan can be viewed during normal operating hours.
An electronic version is also posted on the Pennsylvania NRCS Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Program website from now through Oct. 30, 2025.
Oct. 15 Webinar
Additionally, a virtual MS Teams meeting will be held on Oct. 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET to answer questions related to the draft document. Please contact Heather Smeltz at (717) 237-2214 or heather.smeltz@usda.gov for additional meeting information.
Public Comments
The public comment period will end on Oct. 30, 2025 and the final Watershed Project Plan should be completed by December 2025.
Specific inquiries about this rehabilitation plan can be referred to Heather Smeltz, Assistant State Conservationist for Water Resources, by phone at (717) 237-2214 or heather.smeltz@usda.gov.
Public comments on the Draft Watershed Project Plan and Programmatic Environmental Assessment addressing resource concerns from mushroom composting in watersheds of southern Chester County should be sent to Heather Smeltz, Assistant State Conservationist for Water Resources, Natural Resources Conservation Service, 359 East Park Drive, Suite 2, Harrisburg, PA 17111.
If your comments are not received by the due date, we will assume you do not wish to comment.
Click Here for the NRCS announcement.
Visit the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service-PA webpage for more information on technical and financial assistance programs.
(Photo: NPR mushroom composting operation.)
Related Article This Week:
-- NRCS-PA Announces Conservation Funding Opportunities For FY 2026, Deadline To Apply Nov. 1 [PaEN]
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