text: USDA, Gulf State Producers and Partners Take the 'Initiative' for Gulf of Mexico Conservation | USDA
  Release No. 0351.12
  WASHINGTON, December 6, 2012 —Agriculture Secretary Vilsack today announced the release of a new USDA report highlighting crucial ways farmers, ranchers and landowners are participating in USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) partnership initiatives to improve ecosystems, wildlife habitat and water quality on private lands in the Gulf of Mexico region.
  "USDA conservation efforts have improved water quality, enhanced wildlife habitats and bolstered agricultural operations in coastal communities," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. "Today's report shows the importance of continued partnerships, restoration and conservation of natural resources as they are key to the recovery of American ecosystems and rural economies.
  The report spotlights more than 20 successful conservation projects put into action by Gulf region producers and forest owners with assistance from NRCS and its partners. Highlights include:
  For more information on NRCS' initiatives and programs, visit [ http://nrcs.usda.gov] or your local USDA service center.
  Follow NRCS on Twitter [ https://twitter.com/USDA_NRCS/]. Checkout other conservation-related stories on USDA Blog [ http://blogs.usda.gov/category/conservation/]. Watch videos on NRCS' YouTube channel [ http://www.youtube.com/user/TheUSDANRCS].