SISSETON, S.D.(KXLG)- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a historic investment of $1.5 billion for 92 partner-driven conservation projects through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Among the beneficiaries is the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, receiving $1.2 million to develop a Crop Emissions and Sustainability Index aimed at enhancing the economic potential of their tribal lands.

This local project is part of a broader initiative to support farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in adopting voluntary, locally-led conservation strategies. The Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate initiative focuses on cultivating sustainability by integrating innovative practices to improve crop emissions and promote long-term environmental health.

“The Regional Conservation Partnership Program is an example of public-private partnership at its best,” said Tony Sunseri, State Conservationist in South Dakota for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). “Thanks to the boost in funding from the Inflation Reduction Act, we are able to invest even more in this important program, increasing our conservation impact across the country.”

South Dakota leads the nation with the most accepted applications, securing $82.7 million for six projects. The projects aim to enhance natural resources and address the climate crisis, demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships in delivering significant results for agriculture and conservation.