Key Takeaways
- North Dakota introduced the Governor’s Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program to improve soil health and wildlife habitat on marginal cropland.
- The voluntary, two-year pilot program is funded with $6.5 million, including $4.3 million from the Outdoor Heritage Fund.
- The initiative focuses on establishing perennial grasses to boost resilience, water retention, and habitat.
- Approximately 10,000 acres are targeted in the pilot phase, with plans to scale the program statewide.
- Enrollment opens February 2 through local soil conservation districts.
North Dakota Unveils Governor’s Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program
Governor Kelly Armstrong announced the launch of the Governor’s Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program, a new voluntary working lands initiative aimed at improving soil health, cropland resilience, and wildlife habitat across North Dakota. The program targets marginally productive cropland and encourages the use of perennial grass cover to strengthen agricultural and ecological outcomes.
The announcement was made during a press conference at the State Capitol, with participation from Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring, Game and Fish Director Jeb Williams, and North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts Executive Director Rhonda Kelsch, alongside numerous partner organizations.
“This joint effort will help preserve and promote our rich heritage of farming and hunting for generations to come,” Armstrong said, emphasizing the role of collaboration across agriculture, conservation, hunting, and energy stakeholders.
North Dakota's Funding and Structure of the Pilot Program
Outdoor Heritage Fund Supports Two-Year Initiative
The Game and Fish Department partnered with the Association of Soil Conservation Districts to secure $4.3 million from the state’s Outdoor Heritage Fund, supplemented by $2.2 million in matching contributions. The result is a $6.5 million pilot program running over two years.
The Association of Soil Conservation Districts will administer the program, with local soil conservation districts and partners responsible for on-the-ground delivery. The pilot is expected to cover approximately 10,000 acres, with the possibility of expanding if dedicated funding is secured in the future.
Focus on Soil Health, Habitat, and Producer Flexibility
Perennial Grasses and Voluntary Participation
The program encourages producers to establish perennial grasses on eligible cropland through five-year agreements that include annual payments. All types of cropland are eligible, and producers may also qualify for crop insurance premium reductions in coordination with the USDA’s Risk Management Agency.
According to state officials, additional incentives are available for landowners who choose to provide public access by enrolling acres in the Private Lands Open To Sportsmen (PLOTS) program, though access is not mandatory.
“This program is designed to be simple, locally led and producer-friendly,” said Williams, noting that expanded grasslands will also benefit deer and grassland bird populations.
Building a Long-Term Legacy for Working Lands In North Dakota
The “Legacy” name reflects the program’s guiding principles: Land stewardship, Ecology and energy, Growth and governance, Agriculture and access, Conservation and collaboration, and Yield and your future.
“This working lands program will encompass environmental stewardship, an economic return on investment, and increased development of wildlife habitat,” said Kelsch.
Enrollment for the Governor’s Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program begins February 2. Landowners can obtain additional information by contacting their local soil conservation district through NDASCD.com.
