Applications for NACD's 2025 Urban and Community Conservation (UAC) grant initiative are now being accepted. Since 2016, NACD has partnered with NRCS on this grant initiative, awarding over 9.2 million dollars to over 200 different projects. 

The grants are open to any conservation district within the U.S. and the territories NACD serves, tribal organizations, and new this year, state associations. Districts may apply for two different tracts of funding: up to $10,000 for a UAC planning grant to begin early-stage program development or up to $75,000 for a UAC implementation grant. In both cases, these grants are meant to develop conservation district capacity, so grant budgets should focus primarily on staff time.  

Grantees across the U.S. have completed projects like targeting outreach programs to underrepresented smallholder farmers, conducting activities related to urban soil health, and partnering with schools to expand learning gardens. 

Interested applicants may review the complete request for proposals (RFP) and examples of projects from previous grantees on NACD’s UAC webpage. The online application portal is now open, and will close at 11:59 p.m. PT on April 1, 2025. Please direct any questions to Rachel Theler, NACD’s Southwest Region Representative. 

JOIN AUXILIARY TOURS AROUND SALT LAKE CITY

The NACD Auxiliary is offering three tours during NACD's upcoming Annual Meeting! Join in to explore and experience the rich history that Salt Lake City has to offer.

On Sunday morning, February 9, head to Temple Square to watch a live performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and spiritual message by Derrick Porter. This free weekly program has been going on for over nine decades and gives voice to peace, hope, and inspiration.

Later that afternoon, the Auxiliary will lead a free 45-minute walking tour around Temple Square, visiting the Church of Latter Day Saints Conference Center and historic Mormon Tabernacle.

On Tuesday, February 11, sign up for a tour of the Bishops Central Storehouse and Family Search Library from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Learn about the welfare and emergency equipment and food supplies that are used for people all across the world and explore the world's largest Family Search library where you will be assisted to discover your roots and family history. Register for this tour for $70, with lunch included, by Monday, February 10.

Learn more about each tour option on NACD's website.

WHAT'S UP IN WASHINGTON?

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS UPDATE

President Donald Trump was inaugurated yesterday, marking the beginning of his second term. He has already signed numerous executive orders, including those to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate agreement, freeze federal hiring, and rescind many recent regulations. NACD will continue to track and share information on relevant executive actions.

On Thursday, January 23 at 10:00 a.m. ET the Senate Agriculture Committee will consider Brooke Rollins’ nomination to serve as the Secretary of Agriculture. The hearing can be watched live here. 

The incoming USDA administration is continuing to take shape with the recent appointments of Richard Fordyce to serve as the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC), Luke Lindberg as the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs (TFAA), and Dudley Hoskins as the USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP). NACD looks forward to working with these new leaders and their staffs.

PROTECTING LOCAL ECOSYSTEMS AGAINST INVASIVE SPECIES

In the lush landscapes of Oregon, the West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD) serves as a critical guardian of natural resources. Among its many initiatives, the district’s Invasive Species Program stands out as a vital effort to protect the region’s rich biodiversity and economy from the threats posed by invasive weeds.

Invasive plants are non-native species that outcompete native vegetation, disrupt ecosystems, and lead to severe economic consequences. Their rapid spread can degrade wildlife habitats, alter soil health, and threaten water quality. In western Multnomah County, the presence of invasive species like garlic mustard, knotweed, and spurge laurel is a serious concern. Without intervention, these species could dominate natural areas, displacing native plants and reducing biodiversity.

The conservation district’s Invasive Species Program operates with a clear mission: “to locate and manage high-risk invasive weeds before they can become established in our region.” This proactive approach prioritizes targeting invasive species that pose the most significant threats while they are still manageable. By acting early, the district not only protects local ecosystems but also reduces the long-term costs and challenges of invasive species management.

Michelle Delepine, the Invasive Species Coordinator for the district, recently shared insights from the program on a national stage. Presenting at the North American Invasive Species Management Association’s Annual Meeting and to NACD's Invasive Species Subcommittee, Michelle explained how West Multnomah SWCD’s program was able to address garlic mustard concerns on a landscape-level scale by bringing together partners across the region through the formation of the Pacific Northwest-Garlic Mustard Working Group.

Over the years, the West Multnomah SWCD’s Invasive Species Program has achieved notable successes, including the reduction of garlic mustard infestations and the containment of knotweed in key watersheds. The program’s success is built on collaboration with local landowners, regional conservation organizations, and state agencies to amplify its impact. Looking ahead, the district aims to expand its reach, refine its strategies, and continue building community partnerships to ensure the long-term protection of West Multnomah’s natural resources.

By acting now, the West Multnomah SWCD is setting a powerful example of proactive conservation. Its Invasive Species Program is not just about protecting today’s landscapes; it’s about ensuring a thriving, resilient environment for generations to come.

Read the full story on NACD's blog.