Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG)
 

The Conservation Innovation Grant program (CIG) is a voluntary program intended to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies while leveraging Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production.  Under CIG, Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funds are used to award competitive grants to non-Federal governmental or non-governmental organizations, Tribes, or individuals.  CIG enables NRCS to work with other public and private entities to accelerate technology transfer and adoption of promising technologies and approaches to address some of the Nation's most pressing natural resource concerns.  Idaho has further targeted the State's highest resource concern priorities.  High priorities include: Integrated Pest Management, on farm energy conservation, and reduction of nutrients in stored animal wastes.  CIG will benefit agricultural producers by providing more options for environmental enhancement and compliance with Federal, State, and local regulations.  The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) administers CIG.  The CIG requires a 50-50 match between the agency and the applicant.  The CIG has two funding components - national and state.

Applicants are encouraged to completely read and understand the requirements for applications for these grants.  A key component is that the proposal leads to the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and/or technologies.  Applicants need to be specific on what makes their proposed approach or technology "innovative".  Applicants are encouraged to pay specific attention to Section I, C "Innovative Conservation Projects or Activities" for an explanation of what is considered innovative.  CIG proposals for research will not be accepted.

• The CIG National Component offers eligible entities the opportunity to apply for grants of up to $1 million.  NRCS is making available up to $20 million in the nationwide competition.
• The CIG State Component offers eligible entities the opportunity to apply for grants up to $75,000.  This competition is limited to applications for projects within Idaho.  Idaho plans to make up to $250,000 available for CIG State Component grants available in 2008.