Contact:
Alan McBee
Message from the State Conservationist
April 6, 2020
Alaska Conservation Partners,
It’s been a challenging time as we adjust to our new “normal” to prevent the spread of coronavirus COVID-19 in Alaska. Thank you for your patience as USDA implemented new measures in the last couple of weeks to close our service centers to foot traffic.
NRCS Alaska is committed to moving forward with our mission of voluntary conservation. Our staff remain accessible via phone and email to work with customers and partners remotely. Please don’t hesitate to call your local field office for any assistance you may need.
Our team is harnessing online tools to ensure we continue to serve you as best as possible. Whether it’s through an email, teleconference or video chat, we are here to serve.
Also, our field staff are continuing essential field work while keeping appropriate social distancing. Staff may continue to come into the office, but they will be working with our producers by phone and using online tools whenever possible.
This is a great time to work on applications for upcoming funding opportunities. There are several sign ups currently available to Alaska’s partners and producers, such as:
- Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) general sign up due May 29. This program helps producers expand on their existing conservation work.
- Alaska Conservation Innovation Grants – due May 15. This is a state-level competition new for Alaska in 2020 and provides up to $445,000 for innovative on-the-ground conservation projects, including pilot projects and field demonstrations.
- National On-Farm Conservation Innovation Grants – due May 11. This is a national-level competition that offers up to $25 million for on-farm trials, which includes up to $10 million specifically for soil health trials.
- Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) – our bread and butter program. Our first application deadline was in March, though applications are accepted on a continuous basis so it's never too late to submit an application.
- Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) Alternative Funding Arrangements – due May 18. This is a national-level competition with up to $50 million available.
Find more information about our programs and our service center contact info on our website at www.ak.nrcs.usda.gov.
Alaska’s farmers and ranchers are resilient. Our summer field season is just around the corner – we are committed to providing you with excellent customer service to make it a successful year for Alaska agriculture.
Sincerely,
Alan McBee
State Conservationist
USDA/NRCS
800 E Palmer – Wasilla Highway, Suite 100
Palmer, Alaska 99645
907.761.7760
