Natural Resources Conservation Service

Description

Overview:The purpose of CIG is to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies, while leveraging the Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection in conjunction with agricultural production. CIG projects are expected to lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches (such as market-based systems) into NRCS technical manuals and guidesor to the private sector. CIG is used to apply or demonstrate previously proven technology in order to increase adoption with an emphasis on opportunities to scale proven, emerging conservation strategies. CIG promotes sharing of skills, knowledge, technologies, and facilities among communities, governments, and other institutions to ensure that scientific and technological developments are accessible to a wider range of users. CIG funds projects targeting innovative on-the-ground conservation, including pilot projects and field demonstrations. CIGdoes not fund research projects, with the exception of on-farm conservation research. On-farm conservation research is defined as an investigation conducted to answer a specified conservation-related question using a statistically valid design, while employing farm-scale equipment on farm fields. Specifically, a valid study design will use an appropriate number ofreplications and statistical analysis of results. To the extent NRCS funds research projects through CIG, the Agency will only fund research projects that stimulate innovative approaches to natural resource management in conjunction with agricultural production.NRCS will accept proposals under this notice for single or multiyear projects, not to exceed three years, submitted by eligible entities for projects to be completed in New Mexico. Eligible entities include Indian Tribes, State and local units of government, non-governmental organizations, and individuals.Proposals will be screened for completeness and compliance with the provisions of this notice. Applicants will be informed of incomplete or noncompliant proposals. Applicants should submit the proposals in advance of the deadline so that NRCS can review the applications for completeness. Complete proposals received by applicable deadlines will be evaluated based on the Proposal Evaluation Criteria identified in the instructions in section V, part B.

Who can apply

• State governments
• County governments
• City or township governments
• Special district governments
• Public and State controlled institutions of higher education
• Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized)
• Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status (other than higher education)
• Private institutions of higher education
• Individuals
• For-profit organizations other than small businesses
• Small businesses

Contact

Athena Cholas <br/>State CIG Program Manager <br/>USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service <br/>6200 Jefferson St NE <br/>Phone: (505) 761-4419
athena.cholas@nm.usda.gov