Natural Resources Conservation Service
Coverage of Natural Resources Conservation Service in the Nexus archive.
- 8 months later: Southwest Colorado still rebuilding after Trump admin denied disaster funding
Southwest Colorado communities, including Pagosa Springs, are still rebuilding eight months after record-breaking floods caused by Tropical Storms Priscilla and Raymond. The Trump administration denied disaster funding, leaving towns reliant on state and limited federal programs like the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) to cover repairs, which are expected to take years and exceed local financial capacity.
- More cuts could be in store for agency that helps farmers protect the environment
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) faces potential budget cuts under the Trump administration, threatening its ability to support farmers like River Queen Greens who use cover crops to improve soil health. The USDA's proposed budget would eliminate $700 million in technical assistance, reducing staff by 3,000 nationwide, including a drastic cut in Louisiana from 37 to five full-time employees. Over 500 farmers have urged Congress and the administration to prioritize NRCS staffing.
- The agency that helps farmers protect the environment lost a third of its staff last year. And more cuts could be coming.
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) lost over 2,500 staff members in six months due to federal budget cuts under the Trump administration, with Louisiana set to lose 32 of its 37 full-time employees. Farmers in New Orleans, including River Queen Greens, rely on NRCS funding for cover crop seeds but face delays and reduced support, prompting over 500 farmers to sign a letter urging Congress to prioritize staffing.