Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced a plan to invest over $200 million through 2018 in conservation efforts to benefit the greater sage grouse. The plan builds on the original initiative that was unveiled in 2010. South Dakota NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs Jeff Vanderwilt is hoping the plan will increase landowner participation in the conservation program.

Vanderwilt says the conservation practices used for sage grouse habitat will benefit a landowner’s overall conservation program.

He says the hope is by improving the sage grouse habitat it will lead to better and more productive rangeland overall.

Vanderwilt says for more information check with the local county NRCS office or the state office in Huron.