The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced that a second round of funding through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) is now open for application, according to the Wildlife Management Institute. The RCPP was created in the 2014 Farm Bill and was first implemented during the 2014-15 federal funding cycle. During that first round, 115 projects were funded in all 50 states with a total of $394 million in federal funds.

"This is a new, innovative approach to conservation," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. "This allows local partners the opportunity to design and invest in conservation projects specifically tailored to their communities and to have an impact that's well beyond what the Federal government could accomplish on its own."

USDA will make $235 million in federal funds available for the second round of projects. Federal funds used for RCPP are matched by non-federal funds to conduct conservation projects around the country. RCPP projects are developed and implemented by state and local governments, tribal governments, non-governmental organizations, universities and individuals. RCPP projects focus on improving water quality, combating drought, enhancing soil health, and supporting wildlife habitat in working landscapes.

Unlike the first round of RCPP, projects in the second round will be capped at $10 million in federal funds. Project pre-proposals for the second round must be submitted by July 8^th through Grants.gov. (pmr)