1. (1) The commission may make a grant from the Agriculture Resource Development Fund, or from funds appropriated by the federal government, Legislature, or another entity, to an eligible entity, as defined by the department by rule made in accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act, for:

   1. (a) control or eradication of noxious weeds and invasive plant species in cooperation and coordination with a local weed board;
   2. (b) the costs of plans or projects to improve manure management, control surface water runoff, or address other environmental issues on a farm or ranch operation, including the costs of preparing or implementing a nutrient management plan;
   3. (c) the improvement of water quality;
   4. (d) the improvement of water quantity and flows;
   5. (e) hydroponic fodder production;
   6. (f) the development of watershed plans; or
   7. (g) a program to address other environmental issues.

2. (2)

   1. (a) In awarding a grant, the commission shall consider the following criteria:

      1. (i) the ability of the grantee to pay for the costs of proposed plans or projects;

      2. (ii) the availability of:

         1. (A) matching funds provided by the grantee or another source; or
         2. (B) material, labor, or other items of value provided in lieu of money by the grantee or another source; and
      3. (iii) the benefits that accrue to the general public by the awarding of a grant.
   2. (b) The commission may establish by rule additional criteria for the awarding of a grant.
3. (3) The commission shall make rules in accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act, to implement this section.

4. (4) The commission may appoint an advisory board to:

   1. (a) assist with the grant process;
   2. (b) make recommendations to the commission regarding grants; and
   3. (c) establish policies and procedures for awarding loans or grants.

Amended by Chapter 144, 2023 General Session