Gallagher Fence and Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP)

Since its creation in 2005, the Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program (TAEP) has empowered agricultural producers to make meaningful, long-term investments in their farms and communities through valuable cost-share funding. By participating in TAEP, farmers can strengthen their operations, increase profits, improve safety, boost efficiency, and confidently adapt to changing markets—all while contributing to the economic vitality of their local communities. The program’s impact is proven: from 2005 through 2025, more than $309 million has supported 97,855 producer projects statewide. Even more impressive, every TAEP dollar invested generates $6.55 in local economic activity, making it not just an investment in individual farms, but in the future prosperity of Tennessee as a whole

The Tennessee Agricultural Enhancement Program offers a wide range of cost-share opportunities, including Dairy Solutions, Genetics, Hay Storage, Hay Equipment, Herd Health, Livestock Equipment, Livestock Solutions, Poultry Grower, Row Crop Solutions, Swine Producer, Working Structures & Fence-line Systems, and Producer Diversification (such as agritourism, fruit and vegetable production, honey bees, horticulture, organics, and value-added products).

The application period is held each year from October 1–7, and updated application materials are posted in late August on the TAEP webpage.

To qualify for cost-share funding, applicants must meet general eligibility guidelines as well as the specific requirements of their chosen program. Each program has a reimbursement limit ranging from $2,000 to $12,000. Payments are based on 50% of eligible expenses, up to the program maximum. Approved participants must have a current master certification—or an approved equivalent for Producer Diversification—at the time they request reimbursement, not when they apply.

Approved purchases may begin on October 1, the first day of the application period, and must be completed before the final reimbursement deadline for the approved program.

Applicants are notified of approval in mid-December, and reimbursement packets are mailed in January. These packets include approval documents and detailed instructions. Once the project is complete, participants may submit a reimbursement request before the program’s final deadline.

Reimbursement requests must include required program documentation, itemized receipts, photos of the completed project, IRS Form W-9, and proof of certification. Each request is carefully reviewed to confirm eligibility, approved purchase dates, and that the project is properly installed and in use. Farm visits may be conducted prior to payment if additional verification is needed.

All equipment and structures funded through TAEP must be used for their approved purpose for at least five continuous years from the purchase date. Site visits may occur before, during, or after project completion to confirm compliance, including livestock or acreage minimum requirements. Providing false or misleading information may lead to suspension from the program, legal action, or criminal prosecution. In addition, random annual checks are conducted to verify proper use of previously funded projects.

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) appreciates the continued support of the Governor’s Office and the Tennessee Legislature in funding TAEP, which drives economic growth in all 95 counties across Tennessee.