Provide CRP workload assistance to augment nrcs staff to ensure completion of CRP workload

Federal Cooperative Agreement Summary

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarded a Cooperative Agreement totaling $248,832 to the Kosciusko Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) on September 2, 2025, under the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP, CFDA 10.069). The award provides workload assistance to augment NRCS staffing capacity in Indiana, enabling the timely completion of CRP administrative and delivery functions through August 16, 2030. This cooperative agreement supports the NRCS's operational infrastructure by leveraging the local soil and water conservation district's capacity to assist with program management and technical delivery activities that directly support the CRP's conservation objectives.

The Conservation Reserve Program is a voluntary USDA initiative that partners with landowners to implement conservation practices on environmentally sensitive agricultural lands through 10-15 year contracts with annual rental payments. By funding staffing augmentation through the Kosciusko SWCD, this award enhances the program's delivery infrastructure in Indiana, ensuring adequate resources to manage participant enrollment, provide technical assistance, verify conservation practice implementation, and maintain program compliance. Such capacity-building investments enable the CRP to expand its reach and effectiveness in advancing soil erosion reduction, water quality improvement, and wildlife habitat restoration across the region.