The Inflation Reduction Act will provide funds to assist farmers in advancing conservation and climate-smart agriculture. This significant investment aims to create new revenue streams for farmers, thereby saving them money, while also contributing to the nation's efforts to slow climate change.
In the fiscal year 2024, through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), investments will be made in partner-driven conservation and climate solutions. These investments are designed to aid ranchers and farmers in expanding existing conservation strategies, thereby prolonging the life of natural resources. According to a press release by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), project proposals for funding opportunities are being accepted until July 2, 2024.
The announcement reveals two separate funding opportunities: RCPP Classic and RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA). The AFA funding will enable lead partners to work directly with agricultural producers to develop conservation projects that are not available through the RCPP Classic program. The latter will use National Resources Conservation Services contracts and easements to collaborate with project partners. The USDA states that this new funding advances the Justice 40 Initiative, which aims for 40% of overall benefits created from federal investments to flow into disadvantaged communities across the United States.
Secretary Vilsack commented on the development, saying, "We had unprecedented demand for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program last year, showing the robust interest in conservation from farmers and ranchers." He added that thanks to increased funding from President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, they could invest even more this year in this crucial program. Vilsack concluded by expressing his anticipation about what "the more streamlined and customer-oriented Regional Conservation Partnership Program can do to get more conservation on the ground in the coming months and years."
