Local meetings open to individuals interested in setting natural resources goals for Nebraska

York, NE (2/5/2024)  -  A Local Working Group that provides advice on the priorities for many U.S. Department of Agriculture conservation programs will meet March 7 at 10 a.m. at the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District office, 319 E 25th St, York.

The public is encouraged to attend and express their natural resource concerns. Ideas generated from the public will help the U.S. Department of Agriculture tailor their natural resource programs to meet the needs identified locally. 

There is a Local Working Group in each Natural Resources District (NRD).  Membership on the Local Working Group includes Federal, State, county, Tribal or local government representatives according to Josh Bowers, district conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) whose agency guides the Local Working Group. 

“The Local Working Group recommends to the NRCS State Conservationist how conservation programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), or Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) would be used most effectively in their area.  This recommendation can include special target areas, cost share rates on conservation programs, which conservation practices should have cost assistance, or how many dollars could be needed,” said Bowers.  This work group allows local input into how Federal dollars are spent, he said.

Typically, Nebraska NRCS obligates anywhere between $45 million to over $75 million dollars to farmers and ranchers statewide through NRCS conservation programs.  These programs helped landowners and operators make natural resource improvements to their land, water, or wildlife.  This funding was allocated according to the priorities set by the Local Working Group.

For more information about the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the programs and services they provide, contact your local USDA Service Center or www.ne.nrcs.usda.gov. 

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