Conservation Clips is a weekly collection of articles distributed by NACD that provides our members and partners with the latest news in what’s driving conservation. These articles are not indicative of NACD policy and are the opinions of their authors, unless otherwise noted. If you have a relevant submission or need assistance accessing articles, please contact the NACD Communications Team.
Editor’s Note: There will be no Conservation Clips next week because of NACD’s 2025 Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah. Follow along with the meeting on social media @nacdconserve! The next edition of Conservation Clips will be on February 21.
NACD Blog: Cultivating Change: WLCC Corps Member, Becca Krasky’s, Work in Conservation and Land Stewardship
02/04/2024
Becca Krasky, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is exploring her interests in the field of environmental stewardship through her service with the Working Lands Conservation Corps (WLCC). With a passion for sustainable agriculture, pollinator conservation, and community engagement, Becca’s journey reflects a commitment to protecting natural resources while supporting others in their stewardship of the land.
NACD Blog: What’s Up in Washington – February 4, 2025
02/04/2024
Recent executive actions, recently rescinded OMB memorandum M-25-13, and federal court decisions on lawsuits filed against subject memorandum have created uncertainty and confusion related to the administration of conservation grants and programs. Last week, NACD issued a memo based on our best understanding and interpretation of relevant orders, communications, and actions. However, the situation is changing daily and the impacts are still unclear.
Michigan State University: Long-term Study Reveals Best Practices for Building Soil Carbon in Agriculture
01/24/2024
Investigators at MSU’s Long-term Ecological Research including Sasha Kravchenko and Jennifer Miesel, site find 25-year differences in soil carbon gain among cover cropped, no-till, and perennial cropping systems.
USDA-NRCS: NRCS Plant Materials Centers Support the National Seed Strategy
01/24/2024
Native plant communities are nature-based solutions that provide essential environmental benefits, such as buffering against extreme weather, improving soil health and water, and conserving biodiversity. A new progress report showcases how partnership and federal investment have advanced the National Seed Strategy, a pragmatic tool for restoring healthy ecosystems.
AgriPulse: Farmers left in dark as USDA withholds climate project payments
By Philip Brasher and Noah Wicks
02/03/2025
The incoming Trump administration has stopped payments to at least one major climate-smart commodities project, raising questions about whether farmers across the country will be reimbursed for practices they implemented under the $3 billion Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities initiative.
USDA-NRCS: Cowgirls ‘n Conservation event celebrates 12 years
Watford City, ND | Northern Plains Region
01/24/2024
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in coordination with the McKenzie County Soil Conservation District (SCD), hosted the Cowgirls ‘n Conservation annual women’s event January 17, 2025, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo to promote the importance of conservation, environmental stewardship, and the cultural heritage of the American West. The event featured a blend of guest speakers, local artist displays, and dinner all while fostering community spirit that focused on conservation and environmental stewardship.
The Express: Conservation district offers ACAP funding for local farmers
Mill Hall, PA | Northeast Region
01/30/2024
The new Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program (ACAP) has been established to provide financial assistance to help you implement these practices. The program’s goal is to keep soils and nutrients on your land and out of Pennsylvania waterways. Although it is a state-wide program, ACAP will be carried out locally by the Clinton County Conservation District. The district will be receiving ACAP funds over the next five years to support local farmers.
The Olympian: Chehalis Basin Strategy in review: Restoration at Riverbend Ranch near Tenino seeks to balance nature and agriculture
Centralia, WA | Pacific Region
02/01/2025
The habitat restoration project at Riverbend Ranch is a voluntary, collaborative effort. The Thurston Conservation District is managing the project in collaboration with landowners at Riverbend Ranch and Sierra Pacific Industries, who provide essential access and support. The project is designed to address critical ecological challenges along the Skookumchuck River while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
New York State: Governor Hochul Announces $15.8 Million Awarded to Help Dairy Farmers Protect Water Quality
New York | Northeast Region
02/03/2025
A total of 22 projects have been awarded through the State’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts via two funding tracks. Seventeen projects were awarded in Track A, which will go toward Nutrient and GHG Management Best Management Practices Systems. Five projects were awarded in Track B, which will go toward Manure Storage Cover and Flare Projects and associated practices.
Deseret News: Utah’s pollinator program demonstrates success amid crisis
| Utah | Southwest Region
02/03/2025
A pilot program established in 2021 to help pollinators in Utah has enjoyed success and is helping residents, communities and other entities to plant pollinator-friendly plants to encourage their survival. The situation is dire. Monarch butterflies, while once prevalent, are in drastic decline. While once a thing of beauty from one’s childhood memories, they are seldom seen in urbanized areas. Colony collapse has affected about 52% of managed bees in Utah, with them dying off, explained Jim Bowcutt, with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food.