Focus is on current policy and how it can most effectively & efficiently address: – Today’s conservation challenges – Needs of producers – A long-term outlook – Multiple resource concerns – Do no harm
atives First promotes the use of native plants in as any publicly funded conservation practices as asible
atives First promotes the use of native plants in as many ublicly funded conservation practices as feasible, with the timate goal of natives becoming the default choice, hen and where appropriate.
atives First promotes the use of native plants in as many ublicly funded conservation practices as feasible, with the timate goal of natives becoming the default choice, when nd where appropriate. A shift to a Natives First plant olicy will benefit soil, air and water quality, provide ildlife and pollinator habitat, and high quality, low put, drought-tolerant forage for agricultural producers.
Natives Only One-size-fits-all solution Indictment of past actions Restricting private landowner rights All about wildlife Going to happen overnight
Shifting Economics of Forage Production NRCS – Soil Health Initiative – Drought Initiatives – Pollinator Initiatives – Water Quality Initiatives
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
ur nation’s largest conservation program urrently authorized at 32 million acres, but will be cut to 24 million acres over next few years. Maximize the benefits on remaining acres. equire native vegetation for new enrollments and prioritize the e-enrollment of existing contracts with native covers.
Bureaucracy Culture Misconceptions Education Initial Cost – Would come down – Reasonable relative to increased benefits
Seed Availability?
Dealing with bureaucracy, culture, money, and politics STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT – Producers (landowners) • County Committees, State Technical Committees
– Conservation Partners – General Public (voters)
EDUCATION – professionals and landowners ORGANIZE – Needs to be an organized effort that incorporates all levels.