USDA announces new effort
to support Preserve America initiative

Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns marked the second anniversary of the Preserve America initiative by announcing that Preserve America communities will be given priority consideration for community facility funding projects that support efforts to preserve and enjoy America's culture and natural heritage.

The Preserve America initiative is a White House effort to encourage and support community efforts for the preservation and enjoyment of America's cultural and natural heritage. The goals of the initiative include a greater shared knowledge about the nation's past; strengthened regional identities and local pride; increased local participation in preserving the country's cultural and natural heritage assets; and support for the economic vitality of communities. To date, more than 220 communities in 37 states have received the designation as Preserve America communities and will be considered for priority funding under the Rural Development Community Facilities program.

Brockport was recently designated as a Preserve America community.

Communities designated through Preserve America receive national recognition for their efforts. Benefits include use of the Preserve America logo, listing in a government web-based directory to showcase preservation and heritage tourism efforts and eligibility for special existing and proposed Preserve America grants and funding through various government agencies. The next quarterly deadline for Preserve America Community applications is June 1. For information, application forms, and procedures, visit www.PreserveAmerica.gov.