NRCS calls for proposals to designate priority watersheds in Indiana

By Andi Anderson

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Indiana has opened the floor for proposals to designate new priority watersheds for two key conservation initiatives: the Mississippi River Basin Initiative (MRBI) and the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI). The call for proposals will remain open until June 15.

The Mississippi River, often dubbed "America's River," plays a vital role in North America's ecosystem, serving as a water source, food provider, and recreational hub for millions. Recognizing its significance, NRCS, in collaboration with partners, endeavors to implement voluntary conservation practices through MRBI. These practices aim to enhance water quality, restore wetlands, boost wildlife habitat, and maintain agricultural profitability within the Mississippi River Basin. Proposed priority watersheds should address these concerns while aligning with state nutrient loss reduction strategies.

NWQI, a joint effort between NRCS and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), targets agricultural sources of water pollution, particularly nutrients, sediment, and pathogens. The initiative also includes a component dedicated to source water protection. By streamlining assistance and leveraging funds, NWQI empowers agricultural producers to take crucial actions in impaired watersheds. Proposals for new priority watersheds can be located anywhere in Indiana and should address these specific resource concerns.

Damarys Mortenson, Indiana NRCS State Conservationist, emphasized the positive impact of focused partnerships with producers in critical watersheds. "These collaborations allow us to maximize conservation efforts and achieve significant improvements in water quality," Mortenson stated, highlighting the benefits for producers, the public, and the state's natural resources.

Projects seeking implementation funding must have a watershed assessment plan meeting NRCS guidelines. Those without an approved plan may apply for planning phase funding, allowing time for assessment, on-farm planning, and outreach. NRCS approval is necessary for project eligibility for future implementation funding.

Partners interested in participating in the planning or implementation phases should contact Jerod Chew, Assistant State Conservationist for Partnerships, for further details and application materials before the June 15 deadline.

To learn more about MRBI and NWQI, visit the NRCS website. For additional information on NRCS conservation programs and assistance, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted or contact your local district conservationist.

Photo Credit: usda-nrcs