The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is announcing the availability of Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) LA State Program 2021 funding to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies.

The purpose of CIG is to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies in conjunction with agricultural production. CIG projects are expected to lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) to agricultural producers, into government technical manuals and guides, or to the private sector.

Priorities

• Projects which increase knowledge and skills in management of native herbaceous vegetation utilizing prescribed burning and prescribed grazing.
• Projects which evaluate Louisiana specific recommendations for biochar use in applicable Louisiana crops.
• Projects which increase knowledge on and demonstrate regenerative techniques and management on grazing lands (native or introduced spp.) - to include Prescribed Grazing and Soil Health principles.

Funding Information

• Estimated Funding: The total amount of Federal funding the agency expects to award through this opportunity is $300,000.00.
• Start Dates and Performance Periods: Projects may be between 1 and 3 years in duration. Applicants should plan their projects based on an estimated project start date of November 8, 2021.
• Number of Awards: The agency expects to make up to but no more than two (2) awards.

Eligibility Criteria

All U.S.-based non-Federal entities (NFE) and individuals, with the exception of Federal agencies, are eligible to apply for projects carried out in Louisiana. The following entity types are eligible:

• City or township governments
• County governments
• For profit organizations other than small businesses
• Independent school districts
• Individuals
• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
• Native American tribal organizations (other than Federally recognized tribal governments)
• Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education)
• Nonprofits that do not have a 501 (c)(3) status with the IRS (other than institutions of higher education)
• Private institutions of higher education
• Public and State-controlled institutions of higher education
• Public housing authorities/Indian housing authorities
• Small businesses
• Special district governments
• State governments

For more information, visit Grants.gov.