GAINESVILLE, Fla. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture is accepting proposals for up to $310 million in conservation partnership funding aimed at helping farmers, ranchers and forest landowners.
The funding is available through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program.
The program helps fund partner-led conservation projects on agricultural land. The USDA said the money can support projects focused on soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, precision agriculture and long-term protection of agricultural, grassland and forestland.
“RCPP is a partner-driven approach to conservation that funds solutions to natural resource challenges on agricultural land,” the USDA said in a news release.
The USDA said $30 million of the available funding is set aside for projects with Indian Tribes.
There are two funding tracks: RCPP Classic and RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements. Under RCPP Classic, projects are carried out using NRCS contracts and easements with producers, landowners and communities. Under the alternative arrangement, lead partners work more directly with agricultural producers on conservation approaches.
The USDA said proposals will be accepted through Aug. 24.
More information is available through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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