New paper: USDA is already buying environmental outcomes…kinda
Case Studies of Performance-based RCPP Projects
Did you know that the United States Department of Agriculture is already directly buying environmental outcomes? The Regional Conservation Partnership Program’s alternative funding arrangements—created as part of the 2018 Farm Bill—have the authority to make “performance-based payments” for environmental outcomes.
Between 2020 and 2022, at least 7 projects (two are grouped together) were awarded over $32 million to pay for environmental outcomes, not just practices.
This reports highlights the diversity of performance-based projects, as well as the challenges they faced completing agreements with a Department used to paying based on the cost of implementing a practice. It makes some recommendations for policy changes and clarifications to allow outcomes-based projects to flourish within RCPP.
My greatest hope is that this report encourages more NGOs and local governments to develop and apply for projects that use performance-based payments. These case studies should show not only that it is possible but provide potential applicants examples of how to complete their contracting and pitfalls to watch out for.
