NACD has recently released the 2023 Request for Applications (RFA) for the Perimeter Fencing for Feral Swine Program. The full RFA is available on the program homepage.

On behalf of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, NACD will manage and administer a $7.5 million cost-share program that incentivizes landowners and operators to install or repair perimeter fencing to restrict feral swine access and impacts.

Feral swine are a non-native species and considered one of the most destructive invasive terrestrial vertebrates in North America. They cause substantial damage to agricultural operations, natural resources, and native ecosystems. They also have negative impacts on human and animal health.

In addition to cost-share offerings, applications may also include the following activities: 

• Outreach to landowners and operators, including enrollment into the cost-share program; or
• Technical assistance associated with the design, implementation, and approval of perimeter fencing projects.

Applications must be submitted online by Friday, October 13, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

NACD will also host an informational webinar on Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. ET to provide further details and answer questions on the application process. The webinar will be recorded and available later for those who cannot make it. To learn more and register for the webinar, visit NACD's Perimeter Fencing for Feral Swine Program webpage.

For questions, please contact the NACD Conservation Programs team at conservationprograms@nacdnet.org.

NACD SUPPORTS COMMENTS RESPONDING TO ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT PROPOSED RULE

Earlier this summer, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released a series of proposed rules to adjust listing requirements, critical habitat designations, and interagency consultation requirements, among other provisions under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

As a member of National Endangered Species Act Reform Coalition (NESARC), NACD worked with partners to develop and submit comments in response to the proposed rule. NESARC’s comments highlight several examples in which the proposed changes may add duplicative requirements that are already effectively covered by the ESA. The comments also highlight that providing information on different variables that come up during listing determinations can improve transparency and is not prohibited by, or diminish the impact of, the ESA, as well as concerns with changes to the “Foreseeable Future” framework, and clarifications to several proposed actions.

You can view the full comments here.

NCF'S NEXT GENERATION LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE RECRUITING FOR 2024 COHORT

The mission of the National Conservation Foundation (NCF) is to educate and prepare conservation leaders for the sustainability and regeneration of our natural resources. The NCF seeks to educate and inspire conservation leaders of all ages. In fulfilling part of its mission, the NCF supports the Next Generation Leadership Institute (NGLI). NGLI is a district official leadership program aimed towards the cultivation of the next generation of local, state, and national conservation leaders.

NGLI was launched in 2019 in response to a high demand for leadership instruction and bridges the gap from idea to action in equipping conservation district directors with the tools to become leaders. NGLI prepares future leaders in conservation through the development of personal, civic, and organizational leadership skills.

NCF and NGLI will soon be recruiting members for the 2024 cohort. Ideal candidates are currently serving district officials who would like to further develop their leadership roles. The year-long NGLI program includes travel to NACD Annual Meetings in 2024 and 2025, a 5-6 day mid-year session, as well as virtual learning sessions throughout the year. Applications for the 2024 NGLI Cohort will be available starting September 1 - September 30, 2023.

If you have identified a candidate or think you may be one yourself, please view the additional information on the NCF website to see if NGLI might be the next step in your leadership journey.

WHATS UP IN WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE

Recently, USDA announced $530 million in new payments for qualifying Farm Loan Programs (FLP) borrowers facing financial risk, marking the most recent round of funding approved through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

The payments will be provided to an estimated 3,500 borrowers who qualify for “financially distressed” status. More than $1 billion has been distributed from the $3.1 billion provided in the IRA for distressed borrowers, with 20,000 holders of FSA loans receiving payments so far.

For more information on the latest round of payments or to see if you qualify for financial assistance, you can view USDA’s press release found here. 

EXPLORING CONSERVATION TRIUMPHS AT THE SOUTH CENTRAL REGION MEETING

On August 13-15, 2023, the Association of Texas Soil and Water Conservation Districts (ATSWCD) hosted the NACD South Central Region Meeting, an insightful and inspiring event that showcased the ongoing projects, achievements, and partnerships that are driving positive change in conservation.

This year's meeting, which brought together district officials from various soil and water conservation districts across the region, was characterized by a palpable sense of shared purpose and enthusiasm. The meeting provided a platform for participants to delve into the latest advancements in conservation practices, share success stories, and gain valuable insights into tackling the challenges that arise in this critical field.

One of the most captivating aspects of the event was the tour (pictured) of the renowned 77 Ranch, a shining example of sustainable land management and conservation efforts. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Navarro County, the 77 Ranch has become a beacon of hope for those striving to balance agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship.

During the tour, guided by the 77 Ranch owners and operators Gary and Sue Price, attendees witnessed firsthand the transformative effects of native range restoration, innovative soil health management strategies, and water quality enhancements. The success of these initiatives was made possible through the efforts and effective collaborations between local conservation districts, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Miller-Coors, Ducks Unlimited, McDonald's, Tarrant Regional Water District, and the Navarro County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Continue reading on NACD's blog.