USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking proposals for cooperative agreements to help address Maryland’s most pressing natural resource concerns.
Up to $300,000 in funding will be made available statewide.
NRCS will select proposals that leverage USDA
credit:
and partner resources to effectively implement projects.
Successful proposals will address at least one of the following:
• Increase the number of applications for USDA NRCS Agriculture Conservation Easement Program – Wetlands Reserve Easements • Provide in stream monitoring for assessing changes in the surface water quality in response to the implementation of conservation practices in the Catoctin Creek watershed in Frederick County, MD.
• Provide direct technical services to assist producers in planning and/or implementing conservation practices throughout Maryland.
• Develop the tools, technologies, and strategies to support next-generation conservation efforts on working lands in Maryland and develop market-based solutions to resource challenges.
• Conduct an economic analysis on high priority best management practices in Maryland such as nutrient management, manure storage, animal mortality, cover crop, heavy use area protection (HUAPS) and others.
• Provide professional training sessions for partner employees on topics related to conservation planning and agriculture.
Work with NRCS to ensure the courses align with the Certified Planner curriculum.
• Provide training and expert guidance on irrigation system planning, design (including but not limited to micro irrigation), and Irrigation Water Management (IWM) Plan development.