USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service is now accepting applications for up to $150,000 in funding through its PA Conservation Innovation Grants to promote the development and adoption of innovative approaches to cropping systems and grazing management in Pennsylvania.

Applications are due June 24.

Grants will be awarded for projects between one and three years’ duration with individual awards not exceeding $75,000.

Eligible applicants include state and local units of government, non-governmental organizations, and individuals interested in applying for these competitive grants

This year, NRCS is seeking proposals focused on soil health, legacy sediments, integrated pest management, water quality and projects benefiting historically underserved producers.

CIG does not fund research projects but makes an exception for on-farm conservation research as defined in the funding announcement.

Projects must involve landowners who meet eligibility requirements for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

“CIGs explore on-the-ground conservation pilots and field demonstrations that can offer new opportunities for technology transfer to communities, governments and other institutions,” says NRCS State Conservationist Denise Coleman. “We have provided over $1.1 Million in funding for 19 state projects since 2010, and look forward to working with our partners on the next crop of CIGs to offer Pennsylvania farmers more options for sustainable production methods.”

Grant awards will be announced by September 1.

Applications must be emailed in PDF format to Noel Soto, Pennsylvania CIG Program Manager, at: noel.soto@pa.usda.gov. Packages may also be submitted electronically on the Grants.gov website.

Applications submitted near the deadline may be hand delivered or express mailed to the following address: USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Conservation Innovation Grants Program, 359 East Park Drive, Suite 2, Harrisburg, PA 17111.

For more information, visit the NRCS PA Conservation Innovation Grant webpage.

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