Application Deadline for NRCS Conservation Programs Fast Approaching

Eligible producers are encouraged to apply for assistance by Nov. 15, 2013.

Source: Natural Resources Conservation Service

DAVIS, Calif., Oct. 18, 2013 - Farmers, ranchers, Tribes and non-industrial private timber managers interested in applying for Farm Bill conservation programs for fiscal year 2014 are encouraged to submit applications now at their local USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office. NRCS California has established Friday, Nov. 15, 2013, as the sign-up deadline for submitting an EQIP application for the first round of funding through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

EQIP is a continuous sign-up, voluntary, conservation program and applications can be submitted throughout the year. An EQIP application received by Nov. 15, 2013, will be considered first for FY 2014 funding; applications received after Nov. 15, 2013, may be considered later in the year depending on funding availability.

Interested applicants are encouraged to request conservation planning and technical assistance from a local NRCS field office to help with the development of a conservation plan, which serves as the basis for any EQIP application. NRCS staff is available to help producers create conservation plans on a first-come, first-served basis.

In order to be considered eligible for EQIP, the applicant must have a vested interest in production agricultural or non-industrial private forestland and meet other program eligibility requirements.

EQIP, NRCS's largest conservation program, helps eligible producers plan and implement conservation practices that address a wide range of natural resource concerns and provide opportunities to improve soil, water, plant, animal, air and related resources on agricultural land and non-industrial private forestland.

For additional information, eligible producers are encouraged to contact their local NRCS Service Center. Service center locations and more information on the programs can be found here. 

NRCS has provided leadership in a partnership effort to help America's private land owners and managers conserve their soil, water and other natural resources since 1935.