Indiana Witnesses Historic Surge in Soil Conservation Funding

By Andi Anderson

Indiana has achieved a historic increase in state funding for soil conservation, with efforts from advocates driving a significant boost for Clean Water Indiana. This marks the first increase in 23 years, effectively doubling financial resources for crucial conservation initiatives.

The remarkable surge in funding, while positioning Indiana second to last among eight north-central region states in conservation funding, is seen as a substantial step forward. Despite ranking second in prime farmland acres and leading in hardwood timber, the state's commitment to enhancing conservation efforts is commendable.

Allocation of the new funds includes Clean Water Indiana grants totaling $2,313,285 for fiscal year '24, benefiting soil and water conservation districts and other organizations. This substantial increase from the previous average of $1 million in grants will aid various projects addressing soil and water conservation issues.

Matching funds for soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs) have doubled, reaching $20,000 for fiscal year '24, providing local SWCDs with flexibility to address conservation issues based on their unique needs.

Major investments include expanding the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), securing an additional $2 million investment over the biennium. This expansion will increase eligibility from 11 to 38 watersheds, leveraging at least $14 million in federal dollars.

Resilient Indiana, a new initiative, benefits from state funds contributing $540,000, coupled with Inflation Reduction Act funds through NRCS. Over five years, this support will aid 11 technicians and a director in providing essential technical assistance to landowners.

While acknowledging the positive impact, the ongoing need for increased state support, especially in addressing invasive species concerns on private lands, remains a focus. Efforts continue to secure incremental increases in Clean Water Indiana funding regularly, ensuring Indiana keeps pace with neighboring states and further enhances soil conservation efforts across the state.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock