In an effort to help farmers, ranchers and forest landowners mitigate the impacts of drought, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will make $6 million in grants available this year and up to $30 million over the next five years to develop management practices, technologies and tools to improve water resource quantity and quality. “Cutting edge research holds the key to tackling the complex challenges posed by prolonged drought and ensuring the future food security of our nation,” said Secretary Vilsack. “These grants will help arm America’s farmers and ranchers with the tools and strategies they need to adapt and succeed, and build on ongoing, cross-governmental efforts to provide relief to those impacted by severe drought.” Research areas will  focus on ensuring the water security of surface and ground water needed to produce agricultural goods and services; improving nutrient management in agricultural landscapes focused on nitrogen and phosphorous; and educing impacts of chemicals and the presence and movement of environmental pathogens in the nation’s water supply. Learn more.