For Immediate Release:

USDA-NRCS Vermont has approved the opportunity for $75,000 in federal funds focused on expanding access to high-quality, upfront conservation planning, to be spent in a Local Funding Pool for residents of the White River and Ottauquechee Conservation Districts in fiscal year 2026! This funding pool is based on priorities identified in our community's Local Working Group Report, viewable here, which identifies a clear goal of strengthening whole-farm planning, supporting Technical Service Providers (TSPs), and growing Vermont’s conservation workforce.  

Learn more about Local Working Groups here. 

Funding Available (see map for funding area):

See below for list of available conservation practices. 

Steps to Apply:

1.  Determine Eligibility

You must establish records with the Farm Service Agency.  Call (802) 295-7942 to get your Farm & Tract numbers.

Who can apply:  Privately-owned or leased agriculture or forest land within Orange and Windsor Counties, as well as the towns of Granville, Hancock, Pittsfield, and east Chittendon. There is no acreage limit.

2. (Optional) Contact your Local Conservation District

Contact the White River NRCD to set up a technical assistance consultation. We will help you determine which programs and practices are best suited for your operation.  Email whiterivernrcd@gmail.com for assistance.

3.  Submit an Application by August 22, 2025

Complete and file the NRCS 1200 form, available here to your NRCS Local Service Center. 

On Question 2, be sure to select "EQIP" and write in "Local Funding Pool".

If you need assistance, White River NRCD staff can help you prepare and submit an application.

Local Funding Pool Practices:

What are CPAs, DIAs, and CEMAs?

• CPA 199 – Conservation Plan
• CPA 138 – Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition
• DIA 140 – Transition to Organic Design
• DIA 148 – Pollinator Habitat Design
• CPA 110 – Grazing Management Plan
• DIA 159 – Grazing Management Design
• CPA 116 – Soil Health Management Plan
• DIA 162 – Soil Health Management System Design
• CPA 106 – Forest Management Plan
• DIA 160 – Prescribed Burning Design
• DIA 165 – Forest Management Practice Design
• CEMA 216 – Soil Health Testing
• CEMA 222 – Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation 

Questions? Contact:  whiterivernrcd@gmail.com

Find your local Conservation District here.