NRCS Technical Assistance for Habitat Improvement

This cooperative effort is intended to provide field office staff access to local wildlife professionals preferably with experience in planning, development/implementation, and certification of wildlife habitat-related conservation plans. In general, soil conservationists in the local field offices do not have in-depth knowledge of local wildlife habitats and habitat management. In addition, field staff is challenged by heavy workloads in various agricultural sectors. Organizations with trained field staff, experience working with the public, and long-standing experience in wildlife/fisheries management with an understanding of Vermont’s priority habitats and challenges, are desired.

The successful applicant will assist with site visits, documentation of resource concerns, habitat plans, development and layout of conservation practices, certification of implemented conservation practices, and associated documentation. Successful applicants must have or achieve proper certifications and licensures to complete the desired work. The work will provide planning for various Farm Bill Conservation Programs and specific implementation will primarily be through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). Knowledge of NRCS and Farm Bill Conservation Programs, specifically EQIP and CSP and NRCS operations would be desired.

Funding Information

• The estimated funding floor for this opportunity is $80,000 and the estimated funding ceiling is $280,000

Period of Performance

• Projects may be between 1 and 3 years in duration. Applicants should plan their projects based on an estimated project start date of September 15, 2022.