Indiana NRCS Accepting Applications for Monarch Butterfly Habitat Development Project

Indianapolis, IN, April 14, 2016 — Jane Hardisty, State Conservationist for Indiana’s USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced today that NRCS is accepting producer applications for funding for landscape conservation projects. NRCS is investing dollars in conservation practices through the Joint Chief’s Landscape Restoration Partnership – the Monarch Butterfly Habitat Development Project.

“(The) conservation project is vital for conserving and protecting our natural resources here in Indiana,” said Hardisty. “They enhance the locally driven process to better address regionally important conservation goals that go beyond localities.”

Monarch Butterfly Habitat Development Project: The monarch butterfly has suffered from significant population declines over the past two decades. This project will allow NRCS to work with partners and clients to increase monarch habitat on private agriculture lands. This effort is focused on planting milkweed and other nectar-rich forbs and reducing pesticide use in proximity to monarch habitat through the EQIP program. All counties in Indiana are eligible for this project. Applications must be received by June 17, 2016 to be considered for current funding.

Through this landscape project, NRCS and its partners can effectively coordinate the delivery of assistance where it will have the most impact, accelerating the benefits of voluntary conservation programs, such as cleaner water and air, healthier soil and enhanced wildlife habitat. These projects will assist agricultural producers in improving the environment while maintaining a vibrant agricultural sector.

To learn more about the Monarch Butterfly Habitat Development Project, visit: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/plantsanimals/pollinate/?cid=nrcseprd402207

For more information about NRCS and other technical and financial assistance available through conservation programs, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted or contact your District Conservationist Deb Knepp or Soil Conservationist James Rodriguez at 574-936-2024 Ext. 4.