Huron, S.D., May 1, 2023 – Conservation Implementation Strategy (CIS) Project Oglala Livestock Water Development Project will soon be underway on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation near Oglala, South Dakota, serving the community and improving land quality. This three-year project is one selected in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 and federally-funded through the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) conservation programs in the 2018 Farm Bill. The purpose of this project is to develop reliable livestock water sources in the area north of Oglala and will be implemented by NRCS in collaboration with local farmers, ranchers, and landowners within the project areas who are eligible to apply for financial assistance. While applications are accepted year-round, the deadline for FY23 funding is May 26, 2023.

The NRCS’ conservation specialists and partners are coordinating these projects throughout the state. Through collectively focusing expertise and resources on the highest priority resource concerns, CIS projects can yield impressive returns. Collaborative funding and support from other agencies and groups create a coordinated community effort and focus on mutual issues of concern.  The Oglala Livestock Water Development Project partners with local ranchers to directly benefit the land on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Project sponsors identified inadequate livestock water as the primary resource concern and developed this CIS project to address the situation.

“Drought conditions starting in 2021 brought local producers to NRCS for help.  Most range units in the area near Oglala rely on dams that are now dry.  Applying conservation practices such as a deep well, pipelines, and watering facilities will help improve range health, water quality, and livestock health,” says Sandra Huber, NRCS District Conservationist, for Bennett and Oglala Lakota Counties.

To apply to be a part of this project, contact your local NRCS Service Center at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center?state=46&county=, or contact Sandy Huber at (605) 685-1239 Ext. 3. For more information on the CIS in South Dakota, or if you have ideas for a project, visit https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/eqip-environmental-quality-incentives/south-dakota/south-dakota-conservation, or contact Jeff Vander Wilt, Assistant State Conservationist for Programs, at mailto:jeffrey.vanderwilt@usda.gov or (605) 352-1226.

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