Arkansas Department of Agriculture
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/26/2022
Contact: Ayden Massey, (501) 813-6012
ayden.massey@agriculture.arkansas.gov
First Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo Scheduled for January 2023
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Grown program, administered through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, will partner with several Arkansas agricultural associations and organizations to host the first Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo on January 25-28, 2023, in Little Rock.
The conference and expo will consist of workshops, speakers, off-site farm tours, networking opportunities, and a vendor trade show. Evening events at the Sunset Lodge at Rusty Tractor Vineyard and the University of Arkansas Pulaski Tech Culinary and Hospitality Management Institute will showcase Arkansas Grown food and include an Arkansas Grown wine tasting.
The Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo is open to all parties interested in the Arkansas agriculture industry and will focus on farmers and producers who produce for the local food system.
Partner organizations include the Arkansas State Horticulture Society, Arkansas Association of Grape Growers, Arkansas Farmers Market Association, Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention, Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association, and Arkansas Agritourism Association.
The four-day event will be held at the Embassy Suites in West Little Rock. The registration deadline is January 11, 2023. For more conference details and to register, go to arkansasgrown.org/arkansas-grown-conference-expo/.
Opportunities for sponsorship and vendor booths are still available. For more information, visit arkansasgrown.org/arkansas-grown-conference-expo/ or contact Beth Moore at beth.moore@arkansas.agriculture.gov.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit https://agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Arkansas Department of Agriculture | #1 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/26/2022
Contact: Ayden Massey, (501) 813-6012
ayden.massey@agriculture.arkansas.gov
First Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo Scheduled for January 2023
LITTLE ROCK, AR – The Arkansas Grown program, administered through the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, will partner with several Arkansas agricultural associations and organizations to host the first Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo on January 25-28, 2023, in Little Rock.
The conference and expo will consist of workshops, speakers, off-site farm tours, networking opportunities, and a vendor trade show. Evening events at the Sunset Lodge at Rusty Tractor Vineyard and the University of Arkansas Pulaski Tech Culinary and Hospitality Management Institute will showcase Arkansas Grown food and include an Arkansas Grown wine tasting.
The Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo is open to all parties interested in the Arkansas agriculture industry and will focus on farmers and producers who produce for the local food system.
Partner organizations include the Arkansas State Horticulture Society, Arkansas Association of Grape Growers, Arkansas Farmers Market Association, Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention, Arkansas Blackberry Growers Association, and Arkansas Agritourism Association.
The four-day event will be held at the Embassy Suites in West Little Rock. The registration deadline is January 11, 2023. For more conference details and to register, go to arkansasgrown.org/arkansas-grown-conference-expo/.
Opportunities for sponsorship and vendor booths are still available. For more information, visit arkansasgrown.org/arkansas-grown-conference-expo/ or contact Beth Moore at beth.moore@arkansas.agriculture.gov.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. Visit https://agriculture.arkansas.gov/. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Arkansas Department of Agriculture | #1 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205
The 2023 Arkansas Big Squirrel Challenge Weigh in Stations
Springdale - Hunt Family Nature Center 3400 N. 40th Street
Pine Bluff - Delta Rivers Nature Center 1400 Black Dog Road – Regional Park
Mayflower - Camp Robinson Firing Range 574 Clinton Road, Conway
Jonesboro - Crowley's ridge nature Center 600 East Lawson Rd.
Ft. Smith - Ark. River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road
Yellville - Crooked Creek Nature Center 851 Conservation Lane
Columbus - Grandview Prairie Nature Center 1685 County Road 35 North
Hazen - Wattensaw WMA Shop 1693 AR Hwy-11 Hazen
Batesville - AGFC Regional office 140 S. 4th Street
Magnolia - SAU Laney Farm 833 Old McNeil Road
Hot Springs – AGFC Hatchery/Regional office 350 Fish Hatchery Road
Springdale - Hunt Family Nature Center 3400 N. 40th Street
Pine Bluff - Delta Rivers Nature Center 1400 Black Dog Road – Regional Park
Mayflower - Camp Robinson Firing Range 574 Clinton Road, Conway
Jonesboro - Crowley's ridge nature Center 600 East Lawson Rd.
Ft. Smith - Ark. River Valley Nature Center 8300 Wells Lake Road
Yellville - Crooked Creek Nature Center 851 Conservation Lane
Columbus - Grandview Prairie Nature Center 1685 County Road 35 North
Hazen - Wattensaw WMA Shop 1693 AR Hwy-11 Hazen
Batesville - AGFC Regional office 140 S. 4th Street
Magnolia - SAU Laney Farm 833 Old McNeil Road
Hot Springs – AGFC Hatchery/Regional office 350 Fish Hatchery Road
The Arkansas Grazing Lands Coalition
Nov. 2022--The Arkansas Grazing Lands Coalition (AGLC) is a non-profit organization working to further the goals of the Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative (GLCI), a nationwide collaborative process of individuals, organizations, and agencies working together to maintain and improve the management, productivity, and health of the Nation’s privately-owned grazing land.
AACD has an open position to serve on this board and we are currently seeking an individual who might like to serve. They meet 2 - 3 times a year and have presentations by conservation partners on grazing topics.
Brief overview is as follows:
The mission of the Arkansas Grazing Lands Coalition (AGLC) is to provide opportunities for assuring sustainability of all grazing lands, to enhance these lands for future use, and to inform the public of the benefits of making commitment and investment in sound grazing management. AGLC assists in maintaining and improving the management and productivity of privately-owned grasslands in Arkansas by educating landowners and managers on grazing practices that promote environmental, financial, and social stability. AGLC achieves these goals in five ways:
1) pooling the resources of other agencies and organizations with similar goals,
2) hosting annual grazing conferences,
3) providing speakers for university classes and events attended by grazing producers,
4) sponsoring grazing workshops and field days, and
5) developing and distributing grazing education publications and videos.
Grazing lands are a renewable, natural, and sustainable form of agriculture.
AACD has an open position to serve on this board and we are currently seeking an individual who might like to serve. They meet 2 - 3 times a year and have presentations by conservation partners on grazing topics.
Brief overview is as follows:
The mission of the Arkansas Grazing Lands Coalition (AGLC) is to provide opportunities for assuring sustainability of all grazing lands, to enhance these lands for future use, and to inform the public of the benefits of making commitment and investment in sound grazing management. AGLC assists in maintaining and improving the management and productivity of privately-owned grasslands in Arkansas by educating landowners and managers on grazing practices that promote environmental, financial, and social stability. AGLC achieves these goals in five ways:
1) pooling the resources of other agencies and organizations with similar goals,
2) hosting annual grazing conferences,
3) providing speakers for university classes and events attended by grazing producers,
4) sponsoring grazing workshops and field days, and
5) developing and distributing grazing education publications and videos.
Grazing lands are a renewable, natural, and sustainable form of agriculture.
Arkansas Department of Agriculture
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/2/2022
Contact: Ayden Massey, (501) 813-6012
ayden.massey@agriculture.arkansas.gov
Arkansas Natural Resources Commission Approves
American Rescue Plan Act Funding Distribution
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) approved $270 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding distribution at its meeting on Friday, December 2, 2022. A total of 157 projects will receive funding across 58 counties. A full list of the awarded projects can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/american-rescue-plan-funding-water-and-wastewater-grant-program/.
Governor Asa Hutchinson said, “In January, I laid out my “W.I.N.S. in 2022” initiative. One of those initiatives was infrastructure. We know that there is a large water and wastewater infrastructure need throughout the state and I am delighted to see the announcement today regarding funding distributions through the American Rescue Plan Act to help address this statewide need.”
Governor Hutchinson established the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Steering Committee through Executive Order 21-08 to make recommendations on the best use of ARPA funding provided to the state. In June of 2021, a working group for water and other infrastructure projects was formed to make a recommendation to the ARPA steering committee.
The Working Group conducted an extensive assessment of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater needs across the state. Based on over 1,400 responses, an overall water infrastructure need of $5.2 billion was identified. On August 31, 2021, the working group submitted a final report to the ARPA Steering Committee. A timeline, eligibility requirements, and scoring criteria were also developed and included in the report.
On July 27, 2022, a House and Senate City, County and Local Affairs Committee met to hear statewide water and wastewater needs and the Department’s proposed ARPA funding plan.
On August 18, 2022, the American Rescue Plan Steering Committee approved $270 million to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture for water, wastewater, and stormwater projects and $10 million for irrigation projects.
On September 13, 2022, the PEER Committee reviewed the ARPA funding proposal for water and wastewater. On September 16, 2022, the Arkansas Legislative Council approved the full $270 million for water, wastewater, and stormwater projects to be administered by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Commission.
The Department issued a press release and opened the application period on September 16, 2022. Applications were accepted until November 4, 2022. Seven application assistance meetings were scheduled across the state to provide guidance and assistance to applicants.
Results
A total of 882 applications were received and included at least 1 application from each county within the State. The applications submitted were as follows:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 12/2/2022
Contact: Ayden Massey, (501) 813-6012
ayden.massey@agriculture.arkansas.gov
Arkansas Natural Resources Commission Approves
American Rescue Plan Act Funding Distribution
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) approved $270 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding distribution at its meeting on Friday, December 2, 2022. A total of 157 projects will receive funding across 58 counties. A full list of the awarded projects can be found at agriculture.arkansas.gov/american-rescue-plan-funding-water-and-wastewater-grant-program/.
Governor Asa Hutchinson said, “In January, I laid out my “W.I.N.S. in 2022” initiative. One of those initiatives was infrastructure. We know that there is a large water and wastewater infrastructure need throughout the state and I am delighted to see the announcement today regarding funding distributions through the American Rescue Plan Act to help address this statewide need.”
Governor Hutchinson established the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Steering Committee through Executive Order 21-08 to make recommendations on the best use of ARPA funding provided to the state. In June of 2021, a working group for water and other infrastructure projects was formed to make a recommendation to the ARPA steering committee.
The Working Group conducted an extensive assessment of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater needs across the state. Based on over 1,400 responses, an overall water infrastructure need of $5.2 billion was identified. On August 31, 2021, the working group submitted a final report to the ARPA Steering Committee. A timeline, eligibility requirements, and scoring criteria were also developed and included in the report.
On July 27, 2022, a House and Senate City, County and Local Affairs Committee met to hear statewide water and wastewater needs and the Department’s proposed ARPA funding plan.
On August 18, 2022, the American Rescue Plan Steering Committee approved $270 million to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture for water, wastewater, and stormwater projects and $10 million for irrigation projects.
On September 13, 2022, the PEER Committee reviewed the ARPA funding proposal for water and wastewater. On September 16, 2022, the Arkansas Legislative Council approved the full $270 million for water, wastewater, and stormwater projects to be administered by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Commission.
The Department issued a press release and opened the application period on September 16, 2022. Applications were accepted until November 4, 2022. Seven application assistance meetings were scheduled across the state to provide guidance and assistance to applicants.
Results
A total of 882 applications were received and included at least 1 application from each county within the State. The applications submitted were as follows:
Sebastian County Conservation Host Pollinator Party (link to story):
residentnewsnetwork.com/sebastian-county-conservation-district-hosts-pollinator-party/
USDA Offers Conservation Assistance tO LANDOWNERS
TO PROTECT WETLANDS, AGRICULTURE LANDS AND GRASSLANDS
LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Nov. 23, 2021 – Private landowners, tribes, land trusts and other groups wanting to restore and protect critical wetlands and protect agricultural lands and grasslands through the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) have until Dec.31, 2021, to apply for funding consideration during the 2022 enrollment period. The deadline is for the Wetlands Reserve Easements and Agricultural Land Easements programs.
“For over 25 years, NRCS has worked with landowners in Arkansas to protect their wetlands and agricultural lands,” said Mike Sullivan, NRCS state conservationist in Arkansas. “Conservation easements are important tools for people who are trying to improve soil health, water and air quality and wildlife habitat on their land.”
ACEP provides assistance to landowners and eligible entities helping conserve, restore and protect wetlands and productive agricultural lands and grasslands. NRCS accepts ACEP applications year-round, but applications are ranked and funded by enrollment period. For this enrollment period a separate ranking pool for eligible Historically Underserved applications will be prioritized.
Wetland Reserve Easements
Through ACEP Wetland Reserve Easements, NRCS helps landowners and tribes restore, enhance and protect wetland ecosystems. NRCS and the landowner work together to develop a plan for the restoration and maintenance of the easement.
Wetland conservation easements are either permanent, for 30 years or the maximum extent allowed by state law. Tribal landowners have the added option of enrolling in 30-year non-easement restoration contracts. Eligible lands include:
- Farmed or converted wetlands that can successfully be restored;
- Croplands or grasslands subject to flooding; and
- Riparian areas that link protected wetland areas.
During this signup period 10% of the 2022 Arkansas WRE funding allocation, approximately $1.4 million dollars, will be targeted for enrollment of eligible Historically Underserved (HU) applications. Applicants considered for this ranking pool must meet the definitions established as a Socially Disadvantaged or a Limited Resource producer.
Agricultural Land Easements
Through ACEP Agricultural Land Easements (ALE), NRCS provides funds to eligible entities to purchase easements on private working lands. This program helps keep working lands working, especially in areas experiencing development pressure.
Eligible cooperating entities include state or local agencies, non-profits and tribes. Landowners continue to own their property but voluntarily enter into a legal agreement with a cooperating entity to purchase an easement. The cooperating entity applies for matching funds from NRCS for the purchase of an easement from the landowner, permanently protecting its agricultural use and conservation values. Landowners do not apply directly to NRCS for funding under ALE.
Easements are permanent. Eligible lands include privately owned cropland, rangeland, grassland, pastureland and forestlands.
More Information
ACEP remains a major part of the 2018 Farm Bill and program implementation will continue during fiscal year 2022.
Landowners and tribes interested in wetland reserve easements and partners interested in agricultural land easements should contact their local USDA service center.To learn about ACEP and other technical and financial assistance available through NRCS conservation programs, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted or www.ar.nrcs.usda.gov.
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Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
Are you a farmer or rancher whose operation has been directly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic? The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program provides direct relief to producers who faced price declines and additional marketing costs due to COVID-19.
Go to www.farmers.gov/cfap to apply today.
USDA is accepting applications now through August 28, 2020. Producers should apply through the Farm Service Agency at their local USDA Service Center.
About the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, or CFAP, provides vital financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered a five-percent-or-greater price decline or who had losses due to market supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and face additional significant market costs. Eligible commodities include:
Program details are specific to agricultural commodities, as outlined below. Go to farmers.gov to apply today.
Non-Specialty
Crops
Wool
Livestock
Dairy
Specialty Crops
Are you a farmer or rancher whose operation has been directly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic? The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program provides direct relief to producers who faced price declines and additional marketing costs due to COVID-19.
Go to www.farmers.gov/cfap to apply today.
USDA is accepting applications now through August 28, 2020. Producers should apply through the Farm Service Agency at their local USDA Service Center.
About the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, or CFAP, provides vital financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered a five-percent-or-greater price decline or who had losses due to market supply chain disruptions due to COVID-19 and face additional significant market costs. Eligible commodities include:
- Non-specialty Crops: malting barley, canola, corn, upland cotton, millet, oats, soybeans, sorghum, sunflowers, durum wheat, and hard red spring wheat
- Wool
- Livestock: cattle, hogs, and sheep (lambs and yearlings only)
- Dairy
- Specialty Crops
- Fruits: apples, avocados, blueberries, cantaloupe, grapefruit, kiwifruit, lemons, oranges, papaya, peaches, pears, raspberries, strawberries, tangerines, tomatoes, watermelons
- Vegetables: artichokes, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, sweet corn, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, dry onions, green onions, peppers, potatoes, rhubarb, spinach, squash, sweet potatoes, taro
- Nuts: almonds, pecans, walnuts
- Other: beans, mushrooms
Program details are specific to agricultural commodities, as outlined below. Go to farmers.gov to apply today.
Non-Specialty
Crops
Wool
Livestock
Dairy
Specialty Crops
THree STate Grants Awarded to LocaL Conservation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sebastian County Conservation District
Contact: Conaly Bedell – 479-285-5450
Three State Grants Awarded To Local Conservation District
2021-Three grants just announced by the Arkansas Natural Resources Division of the Department of Agriculture enhance the ground-breaking work of Sebastian County Conservation District in developing and accelerating conservation efforts in the West Border County partnership of Sebastian, Crawford and Scott Counties; Scott is known as Poteau River Conservation District.
Awards totaling $38,600 were announced by Ryan Benefield, Deputy Director of the Natural Resources Division.
A sensor device for aerial mapping grant makes possible state of the art mapping of agricultural projects of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) by providing funding for an infrared sensor for the District's DJI Inspire 2 drone. Sebastian County flys a drone for a variety of conservation uses, such as verification of NRCS practices. The addition of infrared capability enhances significantly mapping capabilities for nutrient manage plans in protected watersheds.
A grant for pollinator seeding enables development of dozens of native pollinator patches to provide food for
pollinators, such as the Monarch butterfly and honeybees, as well as for other beneficial insects. The pollinator patches,
equaling in total about 100 acres of food sourcing, will be scattered through all three of the counties, Sebastian, Crawford and Scott.
A grant for an agricultural high tunnel provides a season-lengthening plant house for the Sebastian demonstration and production farm, Holland Oaks Farm, which is a key part of the District's Urban Conservation endeavor.
“The District deeply appreciates the valued support of the Natural Resources Division in helping with these three ground-breaking projects,” said. Conaly Bedell, Finance & Personnel Committee Chairman for the Sebastian County District.
Sebastian County Conservation District
Contact: Conaly Bedell – 479-285-5450
Three State Grants Awarded To Local Conservation District
2021-Three grants just announced by the Arkansas Natural Resources Division of the Department of Agriculture enhance the ground-breaking work of Sebastian County Conservation District in developing and accelerating conservation efforts in the West Border County partnership of Sebastian, Crawford and Scott Counties; Scott is known as Poteau River Conservation District.
Awards totaling $38,600 were announced by Ryan Benefield, Deputy Director of the Natural Resources Division.
A sensor device for aerial mapping grant makes possible state of the art mapping of agricultural projects of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) by providing funding for an infrared sensor for the District's DJI Inspire 2 drone. Sebastian County flys a drone for a variety of conservation uses, such as verification of NRCS practices. The addition of infrared capability enhances significantly mapping capabilities for nutrient manage plans in protected watersheds.
A grant for pollinator seeding enables development of dozens of native pollinator patches to provide food for
pollinators, such as the Monarch butterfly and honeybees, as well as for other beneficial insects. The pollinator patches,
equaling in total about 100 acres of food sourcing, will be scattered through all three of the counties, Sebastian, Crawford and Scott.
A grant for an agricultural high tunnel provides a season-lengthening plant house for the Sebastian demonstration and production farm, Holland Oaks Farm, which is a key part of the District's Urban Conservation endeavor.
“The District deeply appreciates the valued support of the Natural Resources Division in helping with these three ground-breaking projects,” said. Conaly Bedell, Finance & Personnel Committee Chairman for the Sebastian County District.
UPLIFT ARKANSAS
As Arkansans, we know the farming community is vital to our state. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture teamed up with Mangan Holcomb Partners/Team SI and the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau to share https://www.upliftarkansas.com/, a resource to find information on local farmers markets, businesses, restaurants, and other services. Join in to support each other in this unprecedented challenge! #UpliftArkansas #SupportLocal #SupportfARmers
NACD PRESS RELEASE
CONTACT: Sara Kangas, NACD Director of Communications
(202) 547-6223; sara-kangas@nacdnet.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 13, 2020
NACD REQUESTS ADDITIONAL
SUPPORT FOR CONSERVATION
DISTRICTS IN NEXT STIMULUS WASHINGTON – Today, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) sent a letter to Congress requesting additional funding and legislative support for the nation’s nearly 3,000 conservation districts in the next stimulus bills.
“Conservation districts are the backbone of delivering conservation in America,” NACD President Tim Palmer said. “Unfortunately, as with many small businesses, many conservation districts are currently struggling to continue supporting their communities given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.”
In the letter, NACD requests Congress expand the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) to include relief for state and local public-sector entities such as conservation districts that are currently ineligible for the refundable tax credit and payroll assistance programs created under these laws.
Given the state of local economies and the ever-present need for customer service to the nation’s farmers and landowners, NACD also requests that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) be authorized to substantially increase the amount of direct hiring authority available to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). NRCS receives funding through the annually appropriated Conservation Technical Assistance (CTA) program, which facilitates conservation planning, farm bill program implementation and partnership agreements. In the letter to Congress, NACD requests an additional $75 million in a future stimulus bill for the CTA program to support field offices in local communities and to boost conservation practices that improve our nation’s resources while mitigating future natural disasters.
The letter also includes requests related to critical infrastructure investments for the Watershed Operations and Flood Prevention, Watershed Rehabilitation and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 319 Nonpoint Source Grants programs.
“Conservation districts stand ready to work with producers to support our nation’s food system and protect our natural resources during this quickly-evolving crisis,” Palmer said. “It is imperative that Congress provides support to these vital community entities to ensure they can continue to operate in partnership with America’s farmers, ranchers and forestland owners.”
###
About the National Association of Conservation Districts:
The National Association of Conservation Districts is the nonprofit organization that represents the nation’s 3,000 conservation districts, their state and territory associations and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. For more than 70 years, local conservation districts have worked with cooperating landowners and managers of private working lands to help them plan and apply effective conservation practices. For more information about NACD, visit: www.nacdnet.org.
(202) 547-6223; sara-kangas@nacdnet.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 13, 2020
NACD REQUESTS ADDITIONAL
SUPPORT FOR CONSERVATION
DISTRICTS IN NEXT STIMULUS WASHINGTON – Today, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) sent a letter to Congress requesting additional funding and legislative support for the nation’s nearly 3,000 conservation districts in the next stimulus bills.
“Conservation districts are the backbone of delivering conservation in America,” NACD President Tim Palmer said. “Unfortunately, as with many small businesses, many conservation districts are currently struggling to continue supporting their communities given the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.”
In the letter, NACD requests Congress expand the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) to include relief for state and local public-sector entities such as conservation districts that are currently ineligible for the refundable tax credit and payroll assistance programs created under these laws.
Given the state of local economies and the ever-present need for customer service to the nation’s farmers and landowners, NACD also requests that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) be authorized to substantially increase the amount of direct hiring authority available to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). NRCS receives funding through the annually appropriated Conservation Technical Assistance (CTA) program, which facilitates conservation planning, farm bill program implementation and partnership agreements. In the letter to Congress, NACD requests an additional $75 million in a future stimulus bill for the CTA program to support field offices in local communities and to boost conservation practices that improve our nation’s resources while mitigating future natural disasters.
The letter also includes requests related to critical infrastructure investments for the Watershed Operations and Flood Prevention, Watershed Rehabilitation and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 319 Nonpoint Source Grants programs.
“Conservation districts stand ready to work with producers to support our nation’s food system and protect our natural resources during this quickly-evolving crisis,” Palmer said. “It is imperative that Congress provides support to these vital community entities to ensure they can continue to operate in partnership with America’s farmers, ranchers and forestland owners.”
###
About the National Association of Conservation Districts:
The National Association of Conservation Districts is the nonprofit organization that represents the nation’s 3,000 conservation districts, their state and territory associations and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. For more than 70 years, local conservation districts have worked with cooperating landowners and managers of private working lands to help them plan and apply effective conservation practices. For more information about NACD, visit: www.nacdnet.org.
USDA Press RELEASES:
USDA Unveils Tool to Help Rural Communities Address the COVID-19 Pandemic
USDA’s COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide Lists Federal Programs That Can Help Rural Communities, Organizations and Residents Impacted by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 13, 2020 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today unveiled a one-stop-shop of federal programs that can be used by rural communities, organizations and individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide (PDF, 349 KB) is a first-of-its-kind resource for rural leaders looking for federal funding and partnership opportunities to help address this pandemic.
“Under the leadership of President Trump, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities preparing for and impacted by COVID-19,” Perdue said. “This resource guide will help our rural leaders, whether they are in agriculture, education, health care or any other leadership capacity, understand what federal assistance is available for their communities during this unprecedented time.”
USDA has taken many immediate actions to assist farmers, ranchers, producers, rural communities, and rural-based businesses and organizations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on these actions, visit www.usda.gov/coronavirus.
Press Release
Release No. 0217.20
Contact: USDA Press
Email: press@oc.usda.gov
USDA’s COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide Lists Federal Programs That Can Help Rural Communities, Organizations and Residents Impacted by COVID-19
WASHINGTON, April 13, 2020 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today unveiled a one-stop-shop of federal programs that can be used by rural communities, organizations and individuals impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide (PDF, 349 KB) is a first-of-its-kind resource for rural leaders looking for federal funding and partnership opportunities to help address this pandemic.
“Under the leadership of President Trump, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities preparing for and impacted by COVID-19,” Perdue said. “This resource guide will help our rural leaders, whether they are in agriculture, education, health care or any other leadership capacity, understand what federal assistance is available for their communities during this unprecedented time.”
USDA has taken many immediate actions to assist farmers, ranchers, producers, rural communities, and rural-based businesses and organizations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on these actions, visit www.usda.gov/coronavirus.
Press Release
Release No. 0217.20
Contact: USDA Press
Email: press@oc.usda.gov
Assistance for Farmers during Covid 19
Farmers, the burden of the #COVID19 pandemic on your livelihoods may have you seeking financial assistance. Our COVID-19 website has information on deferred payments, paycheck protection, and CARES Act benefits to better assist you with location appropriate help for your needs. We are #StillOnTheJob helping Arkansas farmers weather this storm! Visit https://bit.ly/UAEX-Aid-for-Farms for additional information.
Bobby McCARTNEY AWARDED 2020 Outstanding Employee
of the year by the Arkansas
Association of conservation districts
For ImMEDIATE RELEASE
January 17, 2020, Little Rock, AR.
Contact: Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director
karen@sccdurban.com
Bobby McCartney has been serving as a financial accountant for three Arkansas conservation districts for over 15 years. Bobby’s tenure in Sebastian County has been 3 1/2 years, Johnson County for 4 1/2 years and Logan County for 15 years. He currently manages financial affairs for all three conservation districts weekly. Bobby was a previous financial accountant for over 32 years at the Wolverine Toy Plant (which became Today’s Kids) in Booneville. Bobby’s current skill and expertise with financial management and grant writing at three conservation districts has propelled Sebastian County Conservation District to new heights in 2019. Sebastian County Conservation District was awarded by the AACD the most outstanding conservation district in the state of Arkansas. Bobby assists three conservation district boards handedly in many ways with his financial expertise. Bobby’s skill and knowledge are impeccable in many ways. He is always willing to go the extra mile to fulfill financial obligations to all three districts wherever possible. Bobby McCartney add immense value and experience to all of the conservation districts he works with weekly. Bobby is valued by our Arkansas partners at AADC, NRCS and ANRC.
Bobby has been married to his wife Judy for over 49 years. They have two children, Shanna Schulte and Jeffery McCartney. They have four grandchildren and two great granddaughters.
Contact: Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director
karen@sccdurban.com
Bobby McCartney has been serving as a financial accountant for three Arkansas conservation districts for over 15 years. Bobby’s tenure in Sebastian County has been 3 1/2 years, Johnson County for 4 1/2 years and Logan County for 15 years. He currently manages financial affairs for all three conservation districts weekly. Bobby was a previous financial accountant for over 32 years at the Wolverine Toy Plant (which became Today’s Kids) in Booneville. Bobby’s current skill and expertise with financial management and grant writing at three conservation districts has propelled Sebastian County Conservation District to new heights in 2019. Sebastian County Conservation District was awarded by the AACD the most outstanding conservation district in the state of Arkansas. Bobby assists three conservation district boards handedly in many ways with his financial expertise. Bobby’s skill and knowledge are impeccable in many ways. He is always willing to go the extra mile to fulfill financial obligations to all three districts wherever possible. Bobby McCartney add immense value and experience to all of the conservation districts he works with weekly. Bobby is valued by our Arkansas partners at AADC, NRCS and ANRC.
Bobby has been married to his wife Judy for over 49 years. They have two children, Shanna Schulte and Jeffery McCartney. They have four grandchildren and two great granddaughters.
Holland oaks farm Luncheon
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sebastian County Conservation District
Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director
479-719-5153
karen@sccdurban.com
Holland Oaks Farm brings community,
urban gardening to Fort Smith
Oct. 21, 2019 Fort Smith, AR, A great gathering of neighbors, community members and staff came together to celebrate the partnership of Sebastian County Conservation District and Holland Oaks Farm on Saturday, Oct. 19th at noon. All of the immediate neighbors were invited to attend the event, in which all attended but a few. The event took place at an outdoor luncheon on the grounds of Holland Oaks Farm which is located on Summit Street inside of Fort Smith behind Central Mall. Attendees got to tour the grounds of the farm, owned by Jimmie and Linda Lincks, which recently produced the first sweet potato harvest among other vegetables. The gardens are being cultivated to produce fresh vegetables for community partners like Hope Campus and the Community Rescue Mission. Jeremy Prater is the Urban Project Coordinator who manages the garden at Holland Oaks Farm. The farm is being funded by a recent NACD Urban Grant awarded to Sebastian County Conservation District in 2019. About 50 people were in attendance to this event on a beautiful fall day. There are talks to make this an annual event where food, fun and fellowship are met with serving our community in relation to urban gardening.
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If you would like to learn more about Sebastian County Conservation District, awarded the 2019 Most Outstanding Conservation District in Arkansas by the Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts, please contact Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director at karen@sccdurban.com or call 479-719-5153.
Sebastian County Conservation District
Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director
479-719-5153
karen@sccdurban.com
Holland Oaks Farm brings community,
urban gardening to Fort Smith
Oct. 21, 2019 Fort Smith, AR, A great gathering of neighbors, community members and staff came together to celebrate the partnership of Sebastian County Conservation District and Holland Oaks Farm on Saturday, Oct. 19th at noon. All of the immediate neighbors were invited to attend the event, in which all attended but a few. The event took place at an outdoor luncheon on the grounds of Holland Oaks Farm which is located on Summit Street inside of Fort Smith behind Central Mall. Attendees got to tour the grounds of the farm, owned by Jimmie and Linda Lincks, which recently produced the first sweet potato harvest among other vegetables. The gardens are being cultivated to produce fresh vegetables for community partners like Hope Campus and the Community Rescue Mission. Jeremy Prater is the Urban Project Coordinator who manages the garden at Holland Oaks Farm. The farm is being funded by a recent NACD Urban Grant awarded to Sebastian County Conservation District in 2019. About 50 people were in attendance to this event on a beautiful fall day. There are talks to make this an annual event where food, fun and fellowship are met with serving our community in relation to urban gardening.
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If you would like to learn more about Sebastian County Conservation District, awarded the 2019 Most Outstanding Conservation District in Arkansas by the Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts, please contact Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director at karen@sccdurban.com or call 479-719-5153.
SEBASTIAN COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT REACHES New Heights with Drone
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- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
- Sebastian County Conservation District
Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director
479-719-5153
karen@sccdurban.com - Sept. 30, 2019, Fort Smith, AR, The Sebastian County Conservation District has acquired a state of the art drone, making it the first Conservation District in the state of Arkansas to fly this upscale technology. The district also has two newly licensed FAA commercial pilots with Part 107 certification, Harrison Sears and William Baggett. The drone will enhance the capabilities of the Conservation District by utilizing it with farmers and landowners. The drone will be used to enhance forage improvement by doing pasture surveys, forestry surveys, and monitor the spread of invasive plants. The drone also has the ability to create current maps of land and pastures that can benefit farmers and landowners alike.
- The drone’s state of the art capabilities include the ability to shoot 5.2K in 30 frames per second and 4K in 60 frames per second. It also has an anti-collision feature and is one of the only drones that is omnidirectional gimble. The drone can also be used for marketing and promotion of the Sebastian County Conservation District various projects, as well as for other Conservation Districts across the state. The new uses of the drone are limitless when it comes to conservation in Sebastian County and across the state.
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- If you would like to learn more about Sebastian County Conservation District, awarded the 2019 Most Outstanding Conservation District in Arkansas by the Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts, please contact Karen Brazzeal, Marketing Director at karen@sccdurban.com or call 479-719-5153.
- Drone footage shown above of Doug Ellison's farm, currently on the Board of Directors at Sebastian County Conservation District. This footage was shot from the newly purchased drone on Sept. 7th, 2019.
NEWS ARTICLES
ARkansas Times 'Flavors' Magazine Mentions
Sebastian County ConservAtion district
In June 2019 Issue
2019 Outstanding Conservation District Award
Feb. 19, 2019
Sebastian, Crawford conservation districts win state award
Times Record Staff
The Sebastian and Crawford County conservation districts were the recipients of a distinguished award last week. Karen Brazzeal, marketing director for the Sebastian County Conservation District, said the districts were awarded the outstanding conservation district award for 2019 by the Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts during a meeting in North Little Rock Wednesday. This is the first time a joint conservation district has won the award.
“We have been a conservation district since the early 1900s, and this is our first time to receive the award,” Brazzeal said. The award was announced during a meeting of the Sebastian County Conservation District Board of Directors on Thursday.
“It’s a great honor, and we were well-represented yesterday at the AACD Meeting,” Brazzeal said.
Feb. 19, 2019
Sebastian, Crawford conservation districts win state award
Times Record Staff
The Sebastian and Crawford County conservation districts were the recipients of a distinguished award last week. Karen Brazzeal, marketing director for the Sebastian County Conservation District, said the districts were awarded the outstanding conservation district award for 2019 by the Arkansas Association of Conservation Districts during a meeting in North Little Rock Wednesday. This is the first time a joint conservation district has won the award.
“We have been a conservation district since the early 1900s, and this is our first time to receive the award,” Brazzeal said. The award was announced during a meeting of the Sebastian County Conservation District Board of Directors on Thursday.
“It’s a great honor, and we were well-represented yesterday at the AACD Meeting,” Brazzeal said.
Follow the link to Drone Article Oct. 7, 2019 in the N.w. Arkansas Democrat GaZette:
FOLLOW THE LINK TO THE OCT. 1, 2019 DRONE 5 NEWS STORY:
https://5newsonline.com/2019/10/01/sebastian-county-conservation-district-reaches-new-heights-with-drone/
Follow the link to the Oct. 1, 2019 Drone Times Record Article:
www.swtimes.com/news/20190930/conservation-district-acquires-drone-award
Follow the link to the Holland Oaks Farm Contract May 5, 2019 signing in the Times Record article:
https://:www.swtimes.com/news/20190509/fort-smith-farm-to-be-setting-for-new-conservation-district-project
https://:www.swtimes.com/news/20190509/fort-smith-farm-to-be-setting-for-new-conservation-district-project
Follow the link to the Feb. 14, 2019 Times Record article:
www.swtimes.com/news/20190214/sebastian-county-grant-to-aid-crawford-county-projects
www.swtimes.com/news/20190214/sebastian-county-grant-to-aid-crawford-county-projects
Follow the link to the Dec. 28, 2018 Times Record article:
SWTIMES.COM/NEWS/20181228/CONSERVATION-DISTRICT-PUTS-FINAL-TOUCHES-ON-REPORT
SWTIMES.COM/NEWS/20181228/CONSERVATION-DISTRICT-PUTS-FINAL-TOUCHES-ON-REPORT
Follow the link to the Aug. 10, 2018 Times Record article:
swtimes.com/news/20180810/fort-smith-forum-promotes-rain-gardens
swtimes.com/news/20180810/fort-smith-forum-promotes-rain-gardens
Follow the link to the Aug, 9, 2018 Times Record article:
www.swtimes.com/news/20180809/rain-gardens-stormwater-runoff-focus-of-fort-smith-meeting-thursday
www.swtimes.com/news/20180809/rain-gardens-stormwater-runoff-focus-of-fort-smith-meeting-thursday
Follow the link to the July 4, 2018 Times Record article:
swtimes.com/news/20180704/efficient-sustainable-gardening-goal-of-sebastian-county-conservation-district
swtimes.com/news/20180704/efficient-sustainable-gardening-goal-of-sebastian-county-conservation-district
Jeremy Prater, Urban Project Coordinator, speaks at the Master Gardeners Club
Jeremy Prater, Urban Project Coordinator, Times REcord Aug. 9, 2019
