To increase connections between young urban farmers and connecticut's conservation offices (conservation district offices and the office of the state conservationist).

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarded a $241,109 Cooperative Agreement to The Institute for Community Research, Inc. (the Institute) to increase connections between young urban farmers and Connecticut's conservation offices. The project, funded under the Soil and Water Conservation (CFDA 10.902) program, aims to enhance climate-smart agriculture practices and conservation assistance in underserved communities. Over the 2-year project period from March 2024 to March 2026, the Institute will facilitate outreach, education, and technical support to strengthen the relationship between young urban farmers and state/local conservation resources. This award leverages the Institute's expertise in community-based participatory research and programming to support sustainable agriculture and natural resource management initiatives.