Charleston Reporter

Representative Nancy Mace has put forward the North American Grasslands Conservation Act, a bipartisan initiative aimed at safeguarding and restoring grasslands across North America. The legislation proposes a voluntary, incentive-based program for conservation efforts and introduces a grant scheme to support activities such as grassland management, restoration, and easements. It emphasizes backing for farmers, ranchers, private landowners, and Tribal conservation efforts by incorporating indigenous ecological knowledge.

The bill also outlines a pilot program focusing on regenerative grazing as a strategy to address climate change. Representatives Sharice Davids, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Mike Thompson are co-sponsors of this legislative proposal.

Rep. Nancy Mace from South Carolina highlighted the importance of preserving grasslands: “The United States has over 125 million acres of grasslands that are threatened, and right here in South Carolina, we see firsthand how important conservation is to the health and beauty of our natural ecosystems.”

Kansas Representative Sharice L. Davids expressed enthusiasm for the bill's potential impact: “Grasslands are vital to ranchers and producers, Tribes, and folks who love spending time outdoors... They’re crucial to fighting the effects of climate change.”

Brian Fitzpatrick from Pennsylvania underscored the urgency of protecting these ecosystems: “Grasslands are among the most endangered ecosystems in the world... By establishing a landowner-driven, incentive-based program and investing in restoration programs, the North American Grasslands Conservation Act will protect essential habitats.”

California Representative Mike Thompson emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts: “It’s great to join my colleagues to introduce the bipartisan North American Grasslands Conservation Act...”

For further details on this legislative proposal or media inquiries, interested parties can contact sc01press@mail.house.gov.