Fishers & Farmers Partnership Announce Over $200k for Fish Habitat Conservation

The Fishers and Farmers Partnership (FFP) proudly announces the allocation of over $200,000 to bolster soil health and water quality initiatives in five states within the Upper Mississippi River Basin (UMRB). These locally-driven projects are designed to enhance agricultural practices, preserve fish habitats, tackle root causes of watershed issues, foster landowner engagement, and advance communication, monitoring, and scientific endeavors.

In 2024, the project spectrum encompasses a range of impactful endeavors, including the application of science-based strategies to support strategic habitat conservation in Missouri, Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Furthermore, efforts are underway to expand outreach mechanisms and processes to promote regenerative agricultural practices throughout the UMRB. An interactive workshop, situated in the proximity of Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin borders, is set to facilitate dynamic exchanges, enabling participants to gain fresh insights, pose pertinent questions, and chart their individual paths forward. Additionally, ongoing support is being extended to existing watershed councils and alliances in Illinois, aiding in outreach, technical assistance, watershed planning, and monitoring.

Heidi Keuler, Fishers & Farmers Coordinator, underscores the significance of collaborating directly with farmers and local leaders, emphasizing the transformative perspective this engagement brings to conservation efforts. Keuler notes, “These farmers and watershed leaders are driven by a profound commitment to conserving soil resources and nurturing healthier lands for future generations. Our support for those actively engaged in on-the-ground conservation work is the bread and butter of Fishers & Farmers.”

Since its inception in 2009, the Fishers & Farmers Partnership has allocated over $2.1 million to locally-led projects, leveraging funds at a 2:1 ratio. This has resulted in a total funding support exceeding $4.2 million for fish habitat conservation endeavors aimed at enhancing soil health and water quality across the Upper Mississippi River Basin.