NRCS' EQIP – Best Bet For Addressing Resource Concerns

Salina, KS, October 10, 2007—For those involved in agriculture, it's a busy time of the year—so much to do, so much to wrap-up.

"Even though you're busy, this might be the best time to take a moment and sign up for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program or EQIP as we call it," says Harold L. Klaege, State Conservationist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

The cut-off date to apply for Fiscal Year 2008 funding is November 2, 2007.

"Chances are you have concerns on your farm that need solving today, not tomorrow, not next year," said Klaege.

"You may have soil condition, irrigation efficiency, or livestock waste issues. Maybe you have grazing land that isn't as productive as it used to be," he said.

Landowners located in the eastern part of the state may be eligible for EQIP financial assistance when addressing forestland health issues, such as thinning or tree and nut planting.

"If you haven't been to the NRCS office to get your plan started and signed up for EQIP, don’t waste any more time," he said. "Do it today."

EQIP has been around since 1996 and since then it has grown in popularity with increased funding levels. It is NRCS' principal program for delivering conservation in Kansas and across the country. EQIP supports the needs of agricultural producers. NRCS offers ideas, solutions, and guidance for a successful and sustainable conservation operation. EQIP—one of the largest programs in the 2002 Farm Bill—is a voluntary conservation program that promotes environmental quality and assists producers to meet local, state, and federal regulations.

"EQIP is available to help limited resource and beginning farmers and ranchers, who have unique circumstances and natural resource concerns that need to be addressed on their land. In Kansas, EQIP may offer limited resource and beginning farmers and ranchers a higher payment rate for structural and vegetative practices," said Klaege.

"So take the first step and visit your NRCS conservation team at your local U.S. Department of Agriculture Service Center," he said. The local USDA Service Center is listed in the telephone book under United States Government.

Learn more about EQIP in Kansas.

Last Modified: 06/27/2008