Governor Armstrong Rolls Out $6.5 Million Soil Health Initiative
Gov. Kelly Armstrong on Monday announced the Governor’s Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program, a two-year, $6.5 million pilot initiative aimed at improving soil health and wildlife habitat on marginally productive cropland across North Dakota.
The voluntary working lands program will help farmers establish perennial grasses to strengthen soil productivity and resilience, improve water retention and expand wildlife habitat. The pilot project is expected to cover approximately 10,000 acres statewide.
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department partnered with the North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts to secure $4.3 million from the North Dakota Outdoor Heritage Fund, along with $2.2 million in matching contributions from partners.
“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.
Producers who enroll will receive annual payments through five-year agreements to establish perennial grasses. Participants may also qualify for crop insurance premium reductions in coordination with USDA’s Risk Management Agency.
Public access is not required, but producers can receive additional incentives if they enroll acres in the state’s Private Lands Open To Sportsmen (PLOTS) program.
Game and Fish Director Jeb Williams said the additional grassland will provide much-needed cover for deer and grassland birds.
The North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts will administer the program through local soil conservation districts and partners.
Enrollment begins Feb. 2. Landowners can contact their local soil conservation district for more information.
The Outdoor Heritage Fund was established during the 2013 legislative session and receives a portion of the state’s oil and gas gross production tax. The Outdoor Heritage Fund Advisory Board recommended approval of the program to the North Dakota Industrial Commission, which approved it Dec. 17.
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