Conservation

Reminder – Applications Open for Climate Smart Commodities Program

Reminder – Applications Open for Climate Smart Commodities Program

Through USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities program, the USA Rice – Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership will be able to offer over $9 million in financial assistance to California rice producers. This opportunity will offer rice producers a suite of more than 30 practices to choose from to fit the needs and capabilities of their operation.

The first of multiple Application Periods is open now through August 15, 2024

Available practices are based on USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) practices and are grouped into tiers on a gradient of their ability to reduce emissions. These range from those practices with direct greenhouse gas reductions (Tier 1) such as Alternative Wetting and Drying, to those that benefit soil health and water efficiency (Tier 2), to those that support biodiversity (Tier 3). Payment rates vary based on the practices and are calculated using the most up-to-date payment schedules from CA NRCS and will pay 100% of the cost of the practice. 

Producers that qualify as Historically Underserved under the USDA NRCS definitions, will also be able to apply for additional structural practices (Tier 4) and compete in a separate funding pool.  

Regina Stafford of Ducks Unlimited will be the primary program contact here in California: rstafford@ducks.org, (916) 279-2867

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Rice Levee Program – Enrollment Open

Rice Levee Program – Enrollment Open

California Waterfowl Association (CWA) is currently soliciting applications for the Rice Levee and Ag Corridors Program. This program is funded by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, through the Nesting Bird Habitat Incentive Program, which allows private landowners to submit bids for the management of their internal rice levees or road edges for upland nesting bird species (Mallard, Gadwall and Pheasant). To participate in this program, rice levees and roads must be reconstructed or mowed before January 1st or left from previous growing season. Enrolled areas must be left undisturbed until July 15th.

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