By Andi Anderson
The Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (IASWCD) has announced the suspension of three statewide conservation programs due to a federal funding freeze.
The impacted programs—Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative (CCSI), Resilient Indiana (RITA), and Urban Soil Health (USH)—have all been paused indefinitely, with associated staff furloughed.
These programs have played a crucial role in supporting farmers, ranchers, foresters, and urban growers by providing technical assistance, training, and outreach to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
In 2024, CCSI reached 11,500 farmers and landowners through more than 100 events. The RITA program expanded into 44 Indiana counties and participated in 136 field training sessions.
The USH program supported local conservation groups in 40 counties and reached over 5,000 stakeholders through 150 events. The suspension of these initiatives will create significant challenges for Indiana’s agricultural community.
The funding freeze has also led to staff layoffs and program disruptions nationwide, according to the National Association of Conservation Districts. Without financial support, many conservation efforts that protect soil health and water quality are now at risk.
IASWCD Executive Director Liz Rice emphasized the organization's commitment to Indiana’s 92 Soil and Water Conservation Districts despite these challenges.
She expressed gratitude for state and federal agency partners and local conservation organizations that continue to support IASWCD’s mission.
The association is currently awaiting federal reimbursements of over $400,000 and has yet to receive a timeline for when funding may resume.
As the situation develops, IASWCD will work closely with stakeholders to advocate for the restoration of these essential conservation programs.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Indiana, Sustainable Agriculture