The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) wants Georgia agricultural producers and landowners to know sign up continues for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). Those who want to be considered for this year’s technical and financial assistance should apply by November 20, 2020.
While customers can apply year round, this application cutoff announcement is for all general EQIP and special initiatives such as the Longleaf Pine, On-Farm Energy, Organic, Seasonal High Tunnel and the Working Lands for Wildlife.
Georgia State Conservationist, Terrance O. Rudolph, said “Every year, NRCS helps Georgia’s farmers, ranchers and private landowners make the best use of their land and natural resources. EQIP is one of the most helpful tools we have to help producers achieve conservation success and I hope everyone who is interested will apply.”
NRCS conservationists works with producers to assess the conservation needs on their land to identify concerns and opportunities, help determine objectives, and recommend solutions.
NRCS wants to remind historically underserved producers of the advanced payment option if they are approved for funding through EQIP. This option allows these producers to get conservation practice payments in advance of the practice implementation.
More information on NRCS conservation programs can be found at https://www.farmers.gov/ or https://www.ga.nrcs.usda.gov under the Programs tab.