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Funding is now available from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Ohio to help Western Lake Erie Basin producers implement conservation practices on their land. Apply by Dec. 8 to be eligible for the first round of funding.

Funding is now available from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Ohio to help Western Lake Erie Basin producers implement conservation practices on their land. This funding is provided through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) and will assist farmers in implementing practices designed to keep nutrients on fields and improve their watershed.

The RCPP funding comes from a 2021 USDA agreement totaling $7.8 million. Indiana, Michigan and Ohio each receive a portion of the funding to assist producers in implementing best management practices in an effort to reduce downstream runoff and ultimately decrease harmful algal blooms and phosphorus levels. The Tri-State RCPP promotes coordination between NRCS and ISDA partners to implement conservation to landowners in the Western Lake Erie Basin. Counties in the Western Lake Erie Basin include parts of Auglaize, Defiance, Fulton, Lucas, Paulding, Van Wert and Williams.

Eligible producers and forestland owners who wish to implement conservation practices on their land should discuss their options with their local district conservationist.  While NRCS accepts program applications year-round, Ohio producers and landowners should apply by Dec. 8, 2023 to be considered for the current RCPP-WLEB funding cycle. Applications received after Dec. 8 will automatically be considered during the next funding cycle. For more information or to submit an application, contact your local district conservationist by visiting Farmers.gov/Service-locator.

Indiana eligible practices for farmers in the Western Lake Erie Basin for this funding period include advanced elective practices for water management, conservation cover, livestock practices, nutrient management, residue management and stream buffers. Farmers are encouraged to contact their local NRCS office before Dec. 8 to apply for the current funding cycle. This funding will work with producers to improve the health and productivity of their operations.

Click here to learn more about the funding and the Western Lake Erie Basin or click here to find your local USDA-NRCS service center.