Mike Shimon, Board President | Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce
Mike Shimon, Board President | Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Vermont has announced the approval of a $75,000 Local Funding Pool to support conservation planning in the White River and Ottauquechee Natural Resources Conservation Districts. The funding will be available during the 2026 fiscal year and is intended to help landowners and producers access technical assistance for long-term conservation efforts.
According to NRCS, the funds are designed to assist eligible participants with developing grazing management plans, soil health system designs, forest management plans, pollinator habitat planning, and support for transitioning to organic practices. A complete list of eligible planning practices can be requested from the agency.
The initiative follows recommendations from the region’s Local Working Group Report, which highlights the need to expand Vermont’s conservation workforce and improve access to technical service providers. The report also stresses increasing proactive conservation strategies within local communities.
Applicants who own or lease agricultural or forest land in Orange and Windsor Counties—as well as those in Granville, Hancock, Pittsfield, and eastern Chittenden—are eligible. There are no restrictions on acreage size for applicants.
To apply, individuals must register with the Farm Service Agency by calling (802) 295-7942 to obtain Farm and Tract numbers. Applicants may also contact White River NRCD for a free consultation regarding suitable plans or designs for their operations. Completed NRCS Form 1200 must be submitted by August 22, 2025; applicants should select “EQIP” on Question 2 of the form and write in “Local Funding Pool.”
White River NRCD staff are available to provide assistance throughout the application process. For more information or technical support, inquiries can be directed to whiterivernrcd@gmail.com. Additional details about eligible practices and the Local Working Group Report can be found on the White River NRCD website or through local Conservation District offices.
"These funds will be available during the 2026 fiscal year to support landowners and producers in the White River and Ottauquechee Natural Resources Conservation Districts."
"This initiative stems from priorities identified in the region’s Local Working Group Report, which emphasizes the need to grow Vermont’s conservation workforce, support Technical Service Providers (TSPs), and expand access to proactive conservation strategies."
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