To increase the economic resilience of historically underserved producers in southside virginia and to increase the commercial avail ability of local ecotype native plant seed

This $696,703 Cooperative Agreement awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (CFDA 10.902 - Soil and Water Conservation) aims to increase the economic resilience of historically underserved producers in Southside Virginia and expand the commercial availability of local ecotype native plant seed. The prime awardee is Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University, operating as Virginia Tech. This multi-year project, with a completion date of December 31, 2026, will leverage Virginia Tech's expertise in agriculture, environmental science, and community engagement to deliver technical assistance, conservation planning, practice implementation, and outreach services to farmers, landowners, and other stakeholders in the target region. The funding will support activities to enhance soil health, improve water management, promote climate-smart agricultural practices, and expand market opportunities for locally-sourced native plant materials.