USDA Announces $1.5 Billion for Regional Conservation Partnership Program

On April 3, 2024, USDA announced $1.5 billion in IRA and Farm Bill funds for partner-driven conservation and climate solutions through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The announcement includes two separate funding opportunities: (1) RCPP Classic projects are implemented using NRCS contracts and easements with producers, landowners and communities in collaboration with project partners; and (2) RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA) involve direct collaboration between the lead partner and agricultural producers to develop innovative conservation approaches that would not be available under RCPP Classic. $100 million of the funds will be reserved for Tribal-led projects. Project proposals should be submitted here. Section 21001 of the IRA provided the USDA $4.95 billion to carry out the RCPP.