Smart Net-Zero

October 23, 2024 | U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) |

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a historic $1.5 billion investment in 92 conservation projects through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). This initiative, bolstered by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), combines federal funding with $968 million in partner contributions to help farmers, ranchers and forest landowners adopt climate-smart and conservation practices.  RCPP projects address key conservation priorities, including  climate mitigation, water conservation, wildlife habitat restoration, and tribal-led conservation. For example, Blue Ridge Resource Conservation and Development is working to improve water quality and wildlife habitat in North Carolina, while the US Endowment for Forestry and Communities is protecting habitat to prevent endangered plant and animal species from becoming extinct.  Since its inception, RCPP has mobilized more than $8 billion in funding and 4,000 partner organizations. By fostering public-private collaboration, these projects support sustainable agriculture, protect natural resources, and help mitigate climate change.