(a) The Board of Water and Soil Resources may provide financial and technical assistance to establish or enhance areas of diverse native vegetation to:

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(1) support declining populations of bees, butterflies, dragonflies, birds, and other wildlife species that are essential for ecosystems and food production across conservation lands, open spaces, and natural areas; and

(2) provide additional benefits for water management, carbon sequestration, and landscape and climate resiliency.

(b) The board must establish criteria for grants or payments awarded under this section. Grants or payments awarded under this section may prioritize proposals in areas identified by state and federal agencies and conservation partners as high priority for protecting endangered or threatened pollinator and other species.

(c) The board may collaborate with and enter into agreements with federal, state, and local agencies; Tribal Nations; nonprofit organizations; and contractors to implement and promote the program.