Wisconsin Ag Connection - NRCS Announces Sign-Up for Conservation Innovation Grants

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NRCS Announces Sign-Up for Conservation Innovation Grants
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 01/30/2009

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has announced that $20 million nationwide will be dedicated to Conservation Innovation Grants in 2009. The CIG program is designed to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies.

"CIG projects can help keep us at the leading edge of building sustainable agriculture," said State Conservationist Pat Leavenworth. "This competitive grant program helps us advance environmental goals that also contribute to and protect local economies."

NRCS administers the grant program for USDA. For FY 2009, up to $20 million is available for the National CIG competition. Funds for single- or multi-year projects, not to exceed three years, will be awarded through a nationwide competitive grants process with applications accepted from all 50 States from all eligible non-federal government or non-government organizations or individuals, including federally recognized tribes.

Applicants should explain the geographic area that the project would benefit including information about the natural resource concern. Applicants should also describe the innovative technologies or approaches which will be used to address the natural resource conservation concern. Other requirements are identified in the Announcement of Program Funding.

Applications must be received in the NRCS National Headquarters by close of business March 2. To view the complete Announcement of Program Funding, visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cig/

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