Greetings, Tribal leaders and producers.
This is my last message to you in the Conservation Pathways newsletter. I will be retiring at the end of December after 34 years of service with NRCS. Working here in Montana has been one of many amazing experiences I’ve had in that time. I thank you all for your work to ensure meaningful conservation is happening on lands managed by Tribal Nations and producers. Our collaboration and partnership help to make sure NRCS services are provided at an ever-higher standard. I know these efforts will continue seamlessly as Kyle Tackett, assistant conservationist for partnerships, takes over as the acting state conservationist while the search for a new state conservationist begins.
The NRCS investment in conservation with tribal producers in 2024 was significant. Through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), we obligated more than $8.4 million dollars through 59 contracts with Tribal producers. This assistance includes both Farm Bill and the Inflation Reduction Act. The historic IRA funding alone allowed us to enroll 18 of the 59 contracts for about $3.7 million dollars.
When it comes to implementing the Conservation Stewardship Program with Tribal producers, we know we have work to do. In 2024, we funded 6 contracts for nearly $800,000. To try to help more producers participate, we are providing flexibility on land control when multiple producers operate in common on a land unit and are willing to work together to achieve conservation goals for the land. Producers interested in the CSP must continue to meet eligibility with the Farm Services Agency and meet stewardship threshold eligibility for their ranching or farming operation.
Please visit your local NRCS office or call the Tribal District Conservationist (listed on the last page) to learn about CSP. The application batching date for this funding cycle is Dec. 27. Apply now. CSP has similar opportunities for beginning or historically underserved farmers or ranchers as our other conservation programs. These include higher payment rates and advance payments.
If there are reasons you can’t participate in CSP, please discuss them with the Tribal DC. We can use that information to change what we have control over at the state level and can provide that input to national program managers to make possible improvements.
Again, thank you all for the conversations and hard work over the past 6 years. I have enjoyed my time in Montana and wish everyone the best as you continue this important work.
Take care,
Tom Watson
State Conservationist for Montana
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