Today, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) issued a Request for Applications (RFA) to solicit proposals for historically underserved farmer-to-farmer outreach and on-the-ground projects that mitigate hypoxic conditions in the Gulf of Mexico. Projects are expected to include water quality, habitat restoration, and sustainable forest management initiatives.
The objectives of this grant program are to:
- Work directly with Native American and/or historically underserved producers on novel or innovative techniques, methods, or approaches that reduce non-point source pollution and increase the sustainability and resiliency of their operations;
- Leverage community-based partnerships to increase knowledge sharing and collaboration;
- Collect and analyze data to demonstrate the results of funded projects; and
- Disseminate results to the community to inform future conservation practices and expand adoption of the most cost-effective and sustainable approaches.
NACD expects to award up to $2.7 million in grants that range from $75,000 to $250,000. Projects must be located in TX, MS, AL, and portions of FL, GA, NM, and CO that are in the Gulf of Mexico watershed.
Applications must be submitted by an eligible entity. This includes conservation districts, their respective state associations or state agencies, Resource Conservation & Development Councils, Indian Tribal Governments, and intertribal consortia.
The strength and diversity of local partnerships and collaborations will be evaluated. Interested parties are encouraged to develop projects with their local conservation district or another eligible entity.
Applicant Resources:
The RFA, frequently asked questions, and other information can be found on NACD’s webpage.
NACD will host an informational webinar on March 7, from 2 to 3:30 PM ET. Registration is required.
Pre-applications will be accepted through April 21, 2023, 11:59 PM ET. It is anticipated that final applications will be due on June 9, 2023 with selections late summer 2023.
