Project quantifies conservation effects at the watershed scale, and studies innovative 'stacked' practices at EOF.

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarded the University of Vermont & State Agricultural College a Cooperative Agreement valued at $1,123,800 on September 19, 2025, under the Soil and Water Conservation program (CFDA 10.902) to quantify conservation effects at the watershed scale and study innovative "stacked" conservation practices. The award extends through September 30, 2029, and will be performed in Vermont. Stacked practices refer to the layering of multiple conservation techniques to enhance overall environmental outcomes and agricultural sustainability. The project integrates University of Vermont's research capacity with the sub-recipient Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University (Virginia Tech), which was sub-awarded funding on October 30, 2025, to contribute technical expertise and collaborative research support toward the same conservation objectives.

The Soil and Water Conservation program supports conservation technical assistance, erosion control, water management, climate-smart agriculture, habitat preservation, and related natural resource activities delivered through grants and cooperative agreements. By quantifying conservation effects and evaluating stacked practices at the watershed level, this award advances the program's mission to protect natural resources, enhance land productivity, and address soil erosion and water quality concerns through evidence-based conservation strategies and innovative land management approaches.