Governor Andy Beshear announced this week that more than $4 million in tobacco settlement funds will go to 345 farm projects around the state.
In Russell County, two applications from the state cost share program were approved to the tune of $3,962.67.
Elsewhere in the Lake Cumberland district, Adair County had one project approved for $3,422.98, Casey County had 20 projects approved for $281,963.65, Pulaski County had two projects approved for $16,697.30, Cumberland County had one project approved for $2,505, and Green County and Taylor County had one project approved each for $20,000.
The Kentucky Soil and Water Conservation Commission selected the projects that will receive the money. It will help farmers promote practices that protect water quality and prevent soil erosion.
The projects include alternative water sources for livestock, grassed waterways, fencing for rotational grazing and cover crops.
Tobacco Master Settlement funds are appropriated each year by the General Assembly to support the program. Funds are distributed with the help of the 121 Soil and Water Conservation Districts across Kentucky which work with local farmers to verify and submit proposed projects for consideration, according to the governor’s office.
Award recipients have two years to complete the projects.