For over a decade, FDCE Conservation & Bioenergy has partnered with organizations across the country to establish impactful Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) projects. These projects support environmental, economic, and social goals by restoring native grasslands, enhancing water quality, and creating renewable energy sources. Here, we explore some real-world examples of CRP and conservation projects that showcase FDCE’s expertise in sustainable land management, innovative bioenergy solutions, and environmental restoration.
Case Study 1: Partnering with POET’s Project Liberty to Support Bioenergy and Sustainability
Since 2012, FDCE has collaborated with POET, a leader in renewable biofuels, on Project Liberty, initially through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) funded BALES project. This partnership aimed to address sustainability in bioenergy production by developing a resilient and environmentally sound feedstock supply chain.
In 2015, POET, FDCE, and industry leaders came together under Antares Group, Inc., securing another DOE grant for the project titled “Enabling Sustainable Landscape Design for Continual Improvement of Operating Bioenergy Supply Systems.” FDCE’s role focused on establishing strategically placed perennial native warm-season grasses and cover crops within the fuel shed. These plantings aimed to improve soil health, reduce erosion, enhance water quality, and support wildlife habitats.
Outcome: FDCE’s contributions have helped create a feedstock supply chain that prioritizes environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The strategically placed native grasses and cover crops have shown significant soil and water conservation benefits, providing a model for sustainable bioenergy production that goes beyond biofuel to support ecological health and biodiversity.
Case Study 2: Coastal Prairie Restoration with The Earth Partners (TEP)
The Earth Partners (TEP) have pioneered a strategy called “conservation biomass,” which leverages biomass markets to finance large-scale regional land restoration projects. In 2014, TEP invited FDCE to collaborate on a project in the coastal prairie region of Louisiana. The initiative focuses on establishing switchgrass energy crops, buffered by pollinator-friendly borders, to supply private biomass markets. Revenue from these markets is reinvested into coastal prairie restoration efforts, creating an economically viable restoration model.
FDCE played an essential role in designing and implementing the switchgrass establishment and managing the supply chain logistics for this project.
Outcome: This project highlights how biomass markets can support conservation. By establishing switchgrass energy crops buffered by pollinator habitats, FDCE and TEP have created a win-win for the environment and local economies. Landowners benefit from an additional revenue stream, communities gain from restored prairie ecosystems, and investors see value in sustainable energy crops.
Why Partner with FDCE for CRP and Conservation Projects?
These case studies illustrate FDCE’s expertise in CRP and conservation projects that go beyond traditional land management to support environmental restoration, renewable energy, and economic sustainability. Our work with industry leaders like POET and TEP underscores FDCE’s commitment to innovative solutions that align with long-term ecological and social goals.
By partnering with FDCE, landowners gain access to an experienced team that combines expertise in native plant establishment, resource management, and sustainability. Whether it’s establishing native grasses to support a bioenergy supply chain or creating conservation biomass markets that fund land restoration, FDCE’s holistic approach ensures that each project achieves its conservation and economic goals.
FDCE’s Commitment to Sustainable CRP Success
FDCE’s successful CRP projects highlight how strategic planning, innovation, and sustainable practices can create positive outcomes for the environment and communities. Our partnerships with industry leaders demonstrate the potential of CRP and conservation projects to support clean energy, restore ecosystems, and create economic opportunities.
If you’re ready to make a lasting impact with your CRP project, reach out to FDCE Conservation & Bioenergy. Together, we can build a more sustainable future by harnessing the power of conservation to support ecosystems, economies, and communities.