Last month, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced a historic $1.5 billion for 92 partner-driven conservation projects through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), and this includes projects in Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

RCPP is a partner-driven approach to conservation that funds solutions to natural resource challenges on agricultural land. Partners will provide $968 million in contributions to amplify the impact of the federal investment. Selected RCPP projects will help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners adopt and expand voluntary, locally led conservation strategies to enhance natural resources while tackling the climate crisis.

The projects support priorities in conservation and climate and can save farmers money and increase productivity. For example, there are projects that support use of innovative technologies to reduce enteric methane emissions in livestock. There are also projects that address water conservation, ensuring producers and communities have the tools they need to adapt in the face of continued drought pressures.

NRCS also set aside $100 million for Tribal-led projects, part of a broader effort to support Tribes and Tribal producers through NRCS conservation programs.

By leveraging collective resources and collaborating on common goals, RCPP demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in delivering results for agriculture and conservation.

Click here to see the list of awarded projects.