By Scout Nelson
North Dakota Governor Kelly Armstrong announced a new statewide effort to improve soil health and wildlife habitat across rural areas. The Governor’s Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program is a voluntary working lands initiative designed to support farmers while strengthening the state’s land, water, and wildlife resources.
The program focuses on planting perennial grasses on marginally productive cropland. These grasses help improve soil health, increase water retention, and create important habitats for wildlife. At the same time, the program aims to strengthen long-term cropland productivity and resilience for farmers.
“This joint effort will help preserve and promote our rich heritage of farming and hunting for generations to come, while also showcasing the spirt of cooperation that makes North Dakota special,” Armstrong said. “Healthy soils and wildlife habitat are essential to our strong economy and the unmatched quality of life that makes North Dakota the best place to live, work and raise a family. We appreciate the ag, conservation, hunting and energy stakeholders who worked with Game and Fish and the soil conservation districts to make this program possible with Outdoor Heritage Fund support.”
The two-year pilot project totals $6.5 million. Funding includes $4.3 million from the Outdoor Heritage Fund and $2.2 million in matching contributions from partners. The North Dakota Game, and Fish Department, and the Association of Soil Conservation Districts work together to secure and manage the funding.
“This gives us the ability to look at planting some perennial grasses in a short period – I love that flexibility about it,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said, adding, “There’s a lot of value in this. ... It’s going to do more to change the landscape and help landowners and sportsmen out there.”
The program also supports wildlife needs. “This program is designed to be simple, locally led and producer-friendly,” said Game and Fish Director Jeb Williams. “Our goal is to create a soil health and habitat program with strong support from all partners to build a lasting legacy of healthy soils, thriving habitats and resilient communities.”
The Association of Soil Conservation Districts administers the program through local districts. “This working lands program will encompass environmental stewardship, an economic return on investment, and increased development of wildlife habitat. Through these tools we will continue to build upon a legacy North Dakota can be proud of,” said Rhonda Kelsch.
The pilot covered about 10,000 acres with five-year agreements and annual payments. Producers may also receive crop insurance for premium reductions. Landowners interested in this effort to improve soil health and wildlife habitat can contact their local soil conservation district at NDASCD.com. Enrollment began on Feb. 2.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy