The USDA is looking for conservation partners to leverage local investments and provide technical assistance for wetlands protection. They have allocated $15 million for this project through the Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Partnership (WREP). This program allows state, local, non-governemtnal organization and Tribal governments to collaborate within the USDA. The goal is to increase the voluntary participation in conservation projects, especially … Read More
USDA Announces $260 Million through RCPP
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced funds of up to $260 million for partner proposals to improve the nation’s water quality, combat drought, enhance soil health, support wildlife habitat and protect agricultural viability. The money is available through USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) innovative Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Those applying for the funds must be able to match the money … Read More
USDA Puts $40 Million Into Sage Grouse Habitat
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that the USDA is making $40 million available to ranchers and other partners in 11 western states restore and protect sagebrush habitat for greater sage-grouse on privately-owned land. This comes as par to their four-year Sage Grouse Initiative 2.0 through Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) partnership. “The decisions of agricultural producers have powerful impacts … Read More
USDA Announces $350 Million to Protect and Restore
Agricultural Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that $350 million has been designated to help landowners protect and restore key farmlands, grasslands and wetlands. The funding comes from the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), which was designed in the 2014 Farm Bill to protect water resources and wildlife habitat, as well as to encourage owners to maintain land for farming and ranching. “The … Read More
Farm Foundation Hosts Forum About ESA
The Endangered Species Act (ESA) has been protecting mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians since it was signed into law in 1973. But for more than 40 years it has also frustrated landowners with its restrictions, especially when the benefits hardly seem to outweigh the regulations. Finding that balance has been a struggle. A recent success has given many hope for … Read More
Northey Responds to USDA Work in Iowa
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the USDA will be investing $3 million in Iowa’s wetlands. The funds will be used to purchase and restore wetlands and associated tall grass prairie uplands, nearly doubling the protected wetlands in the state. Secretary Vilsack made the announcement at the Des Moines Botanical Garden as part of an event focusing on USDA conservation work … Read More
USDA Unveils Strategy for Sage Grouse
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack this week announced a four-year strategy that will invest approximately $211 million in the next three years to conserve the habitat of the greater sage grouse. The Sage Grouse Initiative 2.0, will continue the conservation efforts that began in 2010 to improve sage grouse habitat. The new plan gives ranchers assistance to make conservation improvements to their land. “The Sage Grouse Initiative … Read More