With the introduction of two new pieces of federal legislation related to climate and conservation in the fall of 2021, Highstead’s Conservation Finance Team began providing background and insight on aspects of the legislation that were most relevant to conservation in the New England region. Here is an ongoing compilation of articles.

Biden Administration Launches $1 Billion “America the Beautiful” Challenge (May 5, 2022)

The passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated a significant amount of initial funding for the $1B “America the Beautiful Challenge,” a competitive grant program coordinating funding from Federal agencies and private philanthropy. Learn about The Challenge and Request for Proposals. 

What’s new with Clean Water State Revolving Funds? (Feb 22, 2022)

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law significantly increased funding for Clean Water State Revolving Funds. Learn about the potential use of CWSRF funds for conservation and get clarity on how the funds work. 

Next steps for Land Justice in the New England Conservation Community (Dec 17, 2021)

Following the RCP Network Gathering on Land Justice, we examine the emerging focus on justice in the conservation field and opportunities for new funding to advance environmental justice initiatives. 

Reconciliation Bill passes in House signaling need for regional coordination (Nov 23, 2021)

After the passage of the Build Back Better Bill in the House, we spoke with conservation leaders on how regional coordination can bolster funding opportunities in New England and tackle obstacles in funding. 

What does the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill mean for New England? (Nov 9, 2021)

Learn about the latest on the recently passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and get a closer look at the Build Back Better Framework. 

Conservation funding in the Reconciliation and Infrastructure Bills: An Explainer (Oct 26, 2021)

The United States Congress is in the process of advancing two bills that support additional funding for established forestry, stewardship, agriculture, and climate resiliency programs. Discover how the Reconciliation and Infrastructure Bills have the potential to advance regional conservation goals.