Alabama launches major Black Belt Prairie restoration effort.
State leaders, conservation partners, and local landowners gathered Nov. 6 at The Ridge in Greene County to announce a new multi-year initiative focused on restoring one of Alabama’s most endangered landscapes — the Black Belt Prairie.
The Alabama Soil & Water Conservation Committee (ALSWCC) introduced the Alabama Blackbelt Prairie Initiative, a five-year project funded by a $17.5 million USDA-NRCS RCPP grant with additional support from the Alabama Legislature. This investment will expand conservation work, habitat restoration, and landowner assistance across the region.
The project aims to restore 8,000 acres across 19 counties, providing landowners with cost-share programs, technical guidance, and conservation planning. Restoration efforts will support grazing, wildlife habitat, pollinator areas, and outdoor recreation, depending on landowner goals.
This initiative strengthens local communities, improves soil health, and helps preserve one of Alabama’s most unique natural landscapes while supporting family landowners and working lands across the Black Belt.
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