Preserve America (PA) is an Administration initiative that encourages and supports community efforts to identify, use, enjoy, and preserve America’s treasured cultural and natural heritage.  The goals of the initiative include a greater shared knowledge about the nation’s past, strengthened regional identities and local pride, increased local participation in preserving the country’s cultural and natural heritage, and support for the economic vitality of our communities.  First Lady Mrs. Laura Bush is the Honorary Chair of Preserve America that operates under the guidance of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and forms a network of self-nominated Preserve America communities and neighborhoods.

On March 28, 2008, Mrs. Bush designated 23 new PA communities, bringing the total to 601.  Detailed information on all aspects of this initiative, including a list of the communities and application for designation, may be found at the Preserve America Website.

Many of the PA communities include FRPP easements and are involved with RC&D Councils.  PA may be an ideal avenue to highlight these NRCS programs and their activities within the designated communities.  Additionally, if designated as PA, the communities are eligible to receive Preserve America matching grants to support conservation and preservation efforts.  Round two of the 2008, Preserve America matching grants was just announced; applications are due June, 30 2008 and details may be found at a National Park Service link.

Please check to see where PA communities or neighborhoods exist in your county or State and share this information with NRCS partners, including districts.  Encourage them to seek PA designation for their community; designated PA status may help the communities succeed in their applications for grant funding for local preservation initiatives.

A related grant program just announced by the National Park Service is Save America’s Treasures matching grant program for use in the protection and stabilization of historic sites, structures and collections.  Eligible applicants include federal, State, local and tribal governments and nonprofit organizations.  Information on this grant program may be found at another National Park Service link.

For more information about Preserve America, please contact your NRCS State public affairs specialist or cultural resources coordinator or specialist.
Your contact is NRCS National Cultural Resources Specialist Sarah Bridges at 202-720-4912.