MLRP is a new funding opportunity to help transition irrigated agricultural lands to a less water intensive use while also creating a range of community, environmental, and economic benefits.
The California Department of Conservation established the Multibenefit Land Repurposing Program (MLRP) to incentivize multibenefit land repurposing that takes a strategic regional approach and provides benefits to both the environment and surrounding communities. The Merced Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agency (MSGSA) and regional partners received a $9 million block grant to support land repurposing in the Merced Subbasin from the MLRP over three and a half years (September, 2023 – March 2027).
The Merced Subbasin MLRP Program is committed to regional planning and implementation of multibenefit projects that increase the groundwater sustainability of the subbasin while supporting a viable agricultural economy, increasing native wildlife habitat, and improving community and health outcomes.
Funding is available NOW through two Requests for Projects (RFPs). Both are soliciting projects that transition irrigated agricultural land to less water -intensive use(s) and create additional benefits for rural communities, economies, and/or ecosystems. Please visit mercedmlrp.org or click the button below for more information.
The next solicitation for project development funding is slated to be released in summer 2025.