By Andi Anderson
Indiana witnesses a substantial increase in Clean Water Indiana funding, the first in 23 years, thanks to the efforts of advocates Ray Chattin and Les Zimmerman. Despite this historic boost, Indiana remains second to last in state funding for conservation among the eight north-central region states.
Trevor Laureys, former director of soil conservation, unveils the details of this funding surge. Clean Water Indiana grants for fiscal year ’24 hit a record-breaking $2,313,285, benefiting soil and water conservation districts and organizations. Matching funds to Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) saw a substantial increase from $10,000 to $20,000, empowering local districts to address conservation issues more effectively.
A major allocation targets the expansion of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), injecting nearly $2 million over the biennium. This expansion aims to increase eligibility from 11 to 38 watersheds, leveraging at least $14 million in federal dollars. Simultaneously, the introduction of Resilient Indiana, supported by state funds, promises technical assistance to landowners over five years.
While these strides mark progress, Chattin emphasizes the ongoing battle against invasive species. Significant funding is directed toward creating positions addressing invasive species concerns on private lands and enhancing the capacity of local Cooperative Invasive Species Management Areas (CISMAs) through partnerships with SWCDs.
However, Chattin contends that more state support is imperative for Indiana to achieve parity with neighboring states. The Indiana Association of SWCDs is committed to advocating for incremental increases in Clean Water Indiana funding regularly, recognizing the tremendous need for sustained progress in soil conservation.
This funding surge underscores a collective commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture practices in Indiana.
Photo Credit: istock-blackjack3d
Categories: Indiana, General