To enhance the knowledge level of farmers, land managers, partners, and nrcs employees on all aspects of conservation agriculture soil health thus protecting south dakota's natural resources and…

The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) awarded a $1.76 million Cooperative Agreement to the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition under the Soil and Water Conservation program (CFDA 10.902) effective October 1, 2025 through September 28, 2028. The award funds a statewide initiative to enhance knowledge and capacity among farmers, land managers, conservation partners, and NRCS employees regarding conservation agriculture and soil health practices. The Coalition will deliver producer workshops, field demonstration tours, water quality and soil health education programs, outreach events, and promotional materials on agricultural best management practices designed to improve soil quality, nutrient cycling, and overall natural resource protection across South Dakota.

As a tax-exempt nonprofit organization based in Pierre, South Dakota, the Coalition leverages its established experience in federal grant-funded conservation services to implement these educational and technical assistance activities. This award builds upon the Coalition's existing portfolio of NRCS-funded cooperative agreements focused on soil health conservation and sustainable agricultural production, positioning the organization to provide locally-respected, technically-skilled conservation guidance to advance the program's environmental and agricultural productivity objectives throughout the state.

To enhance the knowledge level of farmers, land managers, partners, and nrcs employees on all aspects of conservation agriculture soil health thus protecting south dakota's natural resources and aiding in agricultural production.