The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in the Caribbean Area is now accepting applications for forest management activities on private lands. The activities aim to reduce wildfire risk in municipal watersheds, implement carbon defense initiatives, and enhance habitat for threatened and endangered species through the Caribbean Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership.
The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Landowners located in the southern region of Puerto Rico, which covers portions of Cabo Rojo, Lajas, Guánica, Yauco, Guayanilla, Peñuelas, Ponce, Juana Díaz, Villalba, Santa Isabel, Coamo, Salinas, Aibonito, and Guayama, are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to apply. While NRCS accepts applications for programs year-round, landowners should apply by July 22, to be eligible for this funding cycle, according to the press release.
The Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership enables the Forest Service and NRCS to collaborate with agricultural producers and forest landowners to invest in conservation and restoration at a large enough scale to make a difference. Working in partnership, and at this scale, helps reduce wildfire threats to communities and critical infrastructure, protect water quality and supply, and improve wildlife habitat for at-risk species, the press release stated.
To apply, contact an NRCS representative at your local USDA Service Center. Local Service Centers can be found at www.farmers.gov/service-locator. A secure account can be created on farmers.gov, and apply for NRCS programs, electronically sign documents, and manage your conservation contracts, the release stated.
The Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership is one of 14 projects selected across the U.S. bringing together agricultural producers, forest landowners, and National Forest System lands to improve forest health using available Farm Bill conservation programs and other authorities.
