Develop and support VGS application suite to further develop functionality, and the mobile application, and to ensure can be used WI TH nrcs AWS and IT environment

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarded a $250,000 Cooperative Agreement to the University of Arizona (operating as Arizona Board of Regents) effective September 30, 2025, through August 20, 2030, under the Soil and Water Conservation program (CFDA 10.902). The University of Arizona will develop and support the VGS (Vegetation Growth Simulator or similar vegetation/geospatial modeling) application suite to expand functionality and enhance the associated mobile application. A key objective is to ensure the VGS tools are fully compatible with NRCS AWS (Amazon Web Services) and information technology environments, enabling broader adoption and integration within NRCS's technical infrastructure.

This cooperative agreement leverages the University of Arizona's substantial experience in federal research partnerships and technical service delivery to advance NRCS's conservation technology capabilities. The work supports the Soil and Water Conservation program's broader mission of delivering technical assistance and tools to private landowners, conservation districts, and other organizations implementing sustainable conservation practices. Performance of the award will be based in Arizona.