coding:  blue text denotes language that will address issues of concern to producers in ALL areas of the U.S., especially states outside the plains and grain belt that are dominated by specialty crops, ranches and agricultural operations other than those dedicated to commodity crops.  Text in bold face will meet several specific needs of Florida producers.

SEC. 2301. ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY INCENTIVES PROGRAM.  

‘‘SEC. 1240H. CONSERVATION INNOVATION GRANTS.

‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary may pay the cost of competitive grants that are intended to stimulate innovative approaches to leveraging Federal investment in environmental enhancement and protection, in conjunction with agricultural production, through the program.

‘‘(b) USE.—The Secretary may provide grants under this section to governmental and nongovernmental organizations and persons, on a competitive basis, to carry out projects that—

‘‘(1) involve producers that are eligible for payments or technical assistance under the program;

‘‘(2) implement projects, such as—

‘‘(A) market systems for pollution reduction; and

‘‘(B) innovative conservation practices, including the storing of carbon in the soil; and

‘‘(3) leverage funds made available to carry out the program under this chapter with matching funds provided by State and local governments and private organizations to promote environmental enhancement and protection in conjunction with agricultural production.

 ‘‘(c) COST SHARE.—The amount of a grant made under this section to carry out a project shall not exceed 50 percent of the cost of the project.