Each year, farmers face a unique set of challenges, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has programs to help in many cases. An example of that is the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). It provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural and forestry producers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits. This includes improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, reduced soil erosion and sedimentation, and improved or created wildlife habitat.
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) wants producers to know they will work with you through this voluntary conservation program to invest in solutions that conserve natural resources for the future while also improving agricultural operations. NRCS can provide financial resources and help to plan and implement improvements.
For those who have not looked into what all EQIP offers, NRCS will work one-on-one with you to develop a conservation plan that meets your goals and vision for the land. This then becomes a roadmap for which conservation practices best meet your needs. NRCS offers about 200 practices depending on where your land is located. These practices are geared towards working farms, ranches and forests and provide producers with many options for conservation.
Learn if EQIP is a good fit for your operation by contacting your local NRCS office.