The Agriculture Department will invest $225 million in federal funds toward 88 projects across the country as part of a program designed to expand conservation through collaborations between the Natural Resources Conservation Service, conservation partners and agricultural producers.
USDA said Dec. 21 the Regional Conservation Partnership Program investment aims to conserve and create clean water as well as boost rural economies, air and soil quality and wildlife habitat.
“RCPP plays a critical role in connecting partners with producers to design and implement conservation solutions that benefit both natural resources and agriculture,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
USDA partners have also proposed to invest an additional $500 million to support work designed to boost the country’s water quality and soil health, support wildlife habitat, protect agricultural viability and address drought.
USDA noted the latest investment also raises its total investment to $825 million in 286 projects while more than 2,000 conservation partners have obligated approximately $1.4 billion in financial and technical assistance.
