Description
The Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) is a program of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) that promotes the coordination of NRCS conservation activities with partners that contribute a significant portion of the overall costs of a project. The program aims to address resource concerns at farm, watershed, and regional scales by providing financial and technical assistance to project partners and producers. The program has two components: the "Classic" component and the alternative funding arrangements (AFA). The RCPP will make a total of $500 million available for both components in FY 2023.
Some key points about the program include:
* The program is open to all 50 states, the Caribbean Area, and U.S. territories in the Pacific Island Areas.
* Eligible partners include agricultural or silvicultural producer associations, state or local governments, Indian Tribes, farmer cooperatives, and other organizations with a history of working with producers.
* Proposals must be submitted through the RCPP portal and must include a description of the conservation approach, a detailed budget, and information on the partner's experience and capacity.
* Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: quantifiable impact, partner contributions, and partnership and management.
* The program has a 5-year project timeline, and projects must be completed within that timeframe.