Regional Conservation Partnership Program

Making it Work for the Great Lakes

RCPP Purposes• Combines past programs of similar nature,• Furthers conservation, restoration and

sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife, and related natural resources,

• Encourages partners to cooperate with producers to meet or avoid regulatory requirements.

Funding• $100 M mandatory funding• 6% from EQIP, CSP & Easement program

annual funding.• 25 % goes to the State NRCS • 35% goes to Critical Conservation Areas (6)• 40% Secretary for competitive grants

The Great Lakes Advantage• Large, geographical area with intensive and

diverse agriculture. Lots of private land and agricultural producers

• Huge drainage basin with LOTS of water.• Critical water conservation issues.• Existing federal and state restoration plans that

include agriculture.• History of partnerships, collaboration and success!

Making it Work for the Great Lakes• Decide: Where would be our most critical

locations or watersheds?• What would be our target issue?

Broad/narrow?• Potential partners?• Funding?• Boots on the ground?• Diverse Strategies…

Making it Work for the Great Lakes• Great Lakes Erosion and Sediment Program model.• Other Conservation Innovation Program project

models.• NEXT STEPS: Get the House to pass the FB Now! • Great Lakes Partners need to begin collaborating

on ideas to build a proposal(s). SOON!