The Source Water Buffer Program, administered by the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee in coordination with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, aims to protect public drinking water and enhance water quality. The program funds conservation easements and projects to establish riparian buffers on farmland bordering critical water sources. Approximately $5 million is available from the Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017 to support these initiatives. Eligible projects include the purchase of conservation easements and the implementation of vegetated or forested buffers to filter runoff and protect water quality in New York State's aquifers, watersheds, reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and streams. Soil and Water Conservation Districts can apply on behalf of farmers who either own or lease eligible agricultural lands. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and funded on a first-come, first-served basis.