North Dakota Meadowlark Initiative

The Meadowlark Initiative is a North Dakota grassland partnership coordinated by NDGF that gives producers one place to apply for partner programs. They cover grazing infrastructure (fencing, water), native grass reconstruction, grassland management, wetland restoration, and transition rental payments while cropland is converted to native grass. Funding comes from USDA RCPP and private and state partners, and a single interest form is routed to the right partner.

• FAQ: 'Most producers, farmers and ranchers will be eligible for many programs offered through the Meadowlark Initiative. If RCPP funds are used, participants must meet eligibility requirements as defined by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.'

Contract lengths vary by partner; 'RCPP funded contract lengths may be up to 10 years.' Research/monitoring participation encouraged but not required.

Published amounts: Cost-share for grazing infrastructure ('border/perimeter fencing, interior cross-fencing, watering features (tanks, pipelines, spring developments), solar systems'), grass plantings, prescribed burning, brush removal, wetland restoration; FAQ: 'Landowners may be eligible to receive a rental payment for the first three years when marginal cropland is planted to diverse native perennial grasses'. RCPP contracts up to 10 years.

Submit the Meadowlark Initiative Landowner Interest Form (https://gf.nd.gov/meadowlark-initiative/contact) any time, or contact any partner, a county USDA service center, or NDGF.

Deadline text on the page: FAQ: 'Landowners may submit a Meadowlark Initiative Landowner Interest Form at any time.'