Alabama NRCS Announces Riparian Habitat Initiative

Dan Alabama, USDA-NRCS

alabama
A well-preserved natural riparian strip

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Alabama, in partnership with the Alabama Soil and Water Conservation Committee, has announced a new initiative focused on improving water quality and improving riparian area habitat through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).

The intent of the initiative is to help landowners limit livestock access to streams, creeks, rivers and other sensitive riparian areas through the implementation of selected conservations practices that address water quality related resource concerns.

Typical practices include exclusion fencing, prescribed grazing, cross fencing, watering facilities, stream crossings, alternative water sources, heavy use area protection and a host of other water quality related conservation practices. The initiative will be available state wide, but a high funding priority will be given to applicants in the Locust Fork and Big Canoe Creek watersheds in Northern Alabama.

Eligible producers are encouraged to apply by July 8, 2019 by visiting their local USDA service center.