The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced a $1.5 billion funding initiative for conservation projects through its Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). This unprecedented investment, strengthened by contributions from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), will finance 92 innovative projects to advance agricultural and environmental sustainability, many focusing on climate resilience and sustainable water management.
This latest RCPP investment is part of the USDA's broader strategy to support public-private conservation partnerships. RCPP mobilizes federal funds and $968 million in private and community-based contributions, expanding the initiative’s reach and impact. This collaborative model allows stakeholders—farmers, ranchers, and landowners—to implement voluntary, locally-led conservation practices to enhance ecosystems and build climate resilience.
Becky Ross, New Hampshire State Conservationist for the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), emphasized the value of these partnerships: “Through the power of partnerships and thanks to the boost in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, we’re able to invest even more in this important program and increase our conservation impact across the country.”
Two major projects in New Hampshire underscore the RCPP’s goals of promoting sustainable land management and supporting local conservation efforts. Both projects received $21 million in federal funding to strengthen the state’s agricultural and ecological landscape.
Across the nation, the USDA has selected projects to address a diverse range of environmental issues. Notably, 16 projects in western states focus on water conservation, providing critical resources to farmers facing ongoing drought conditions. Another six initiatives aim to reduce methane emissions in livestock operations, an area identified for its potential to reduce greenhouse gases. In addition, 42 projects prioritize habitat connectivity and wildlife conservation, enhancing biodiversity by protecting critical migration corridors and habitats.
This funding marks a significant milestone for the Biden-Harris Administration’s climate action agenda, supported by the IRA, which allocated a record $19.5 billion for USDA conservation programs.
Senior Advisor for International Climate Policy John Podesta highlighted the importance of empowering landowners: "America’s working lands and forests are crucial in our fight against the climate crisis. The awards make sure that the people who know those landscapes best—farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners—have the resources they need to lead this important work.”
This round of RCPP funding also dedicated $100 million to support tribal-led conservation projects. Seven awards were allocated to five tribal entities, recognizing Indigenous communities’ unique challenges. This commitment aligns with USDA’s broader efforts to support Tribal communities in managing land sustainably and preserving cultural resources.
Since its inception, the RCPP has demonstrated the impact of well-coordinated public-private partnerships on agricultural resilience. USDA reports that RCPP’s combined investments have reached over $8 billion, which is made possible through federal and partner contributions. By leveraging resources and expertise from a network of 4,000 partner organizations, the USDA empowers communities to pursue climate-conscious, economically viable agricultural practices.
Experts agree that the collective approach promoted by programs like RCPP is critical in adapting U.S. agricultural practices to meet climate challenges. Conservation experts highlight that sustainable agriculture reduces environmental impacts and improves farmers’ long-term profitability and resilience. Studies by the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition show that conservation practices such as no-till farming, cover cropping, and rotational grazing can improve soil health, reduce water usage, and boost farm productivity over time.
