Supporting Sustainable Agriculture through Voluntary Conservation Initiatives
Washington, D.C. — The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) has announced $10.2 million in grants aimed at fostering conservation practices on agricultural lands across 14 states. These grants, supplemented by over $4.9 million in matching contributions, will total a conservation impact of $15.1 million, benefiting both the environment and agricultural communities.
The Conservation Partners Program, a collaborative effort involving NFWF, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, EPA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and corporate partners like Cargill and Nestlé, aims to accelerate the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices. These practices include soil health improvement, carbon sequestration, and water quality enhancement, crucial for sustaining economic viability while conserving natural resources.
Jeff Trandahl, CEO of NFWF, emphasized the importance of these partnerships in supporting agricultural operations and preserving natural landscapes for future generations. The program’s strategic investments will provide technical assistance and resources necessary for implementing conservation practices such as cover crops, conservation tillage, and on-farm wetland enhancements.
Terry Cosby, Chief of NRCS, highlighted the role of these grants in bolstering technical assistance to farmers and ranchers, promoting sustainable land management practices that benefit both agriculture and wildlife habitats. The projects funded under this initiative will cover more than 330,000 acres, focusing on regions like the Great Lakes Basin and the Southern Great Plains.
This initiative aligns with EPA’s efforts under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to safeguard water quality through regenerative agriculture practices. It also reflects corporate commitments to sustainability, as articulated by partners like The J.M. Smucker Co., which actively promotes sustainable agricultural practices in its supply chains.
The Conservation Partners Program, since its inception, has significantly contributed to conservation efforts, awarding over $71 million in grants and leveraging additional resources to support agricultural sustainability and environmental stewardship.
