NRCS Invites Proposals for Conservation Innovation Grants

DAVIS, Calif., April 10, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in California is now accepting proposals for its Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) program. Up to $375,000 is available for one- to three-year grants. The maximum award amount for any project will not exceed $75,000 in FY 2017. Proposals are due by June 7, 2017.

"This is an exciting opportunity for California," said State Conservationist Carlos Suarez.  "The Conservation Innovation Grant program helps NRCS leverage the experience and creativity of public and private partners and organizations to help farmers and ranchers address emerging conservation challenges."

The CIG is a voluntary program to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies. The proposed projects should augment existing NRCS technical tools (planning, assessment and/or delivery) to better facilitate conservation on farms and ranches.

In 2017 NRCS California is prioritizing proposals that improve the "technical toolbox" to address the following on-farm resource concerns: soil and water quality, wildlife habitat, water conservation, forest health, air quality, waste recycling and energy conservation. Applicants are encouraged to explore the full program announcement to better match their proposals to these needs. Please see www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/ca/programs/financial/cig/

Funds will be awarded through a statewide competitive grants process and in 2017 will not include a pre-proposal process.  Eligible applicants include state and local government, nongovernment organizations, Tribal governments, eligible private business and individuals. Applicants may contact Erik Beardsley at [email protected] for more information.

Applicants are encouraged to email applications to Erik Beardsley. Alternatively, they may be mailed or sent by overnight courier to Erik Beardsley, USDA-NRCS, CIG Program, 430 G Street #4164, Davis, CA 95616-4164. All applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on June 7, 2017.

SOURCE USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service

Related Links

http://www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov