Agricultural producers and landowners in Florida are encouraged to apply to participate in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida can provide producers and landowners with financial resources and one-on-one help to plan and implement improvements that address resource concerns.
“Using EQIP conservation practices can lead to cleaner water and air, healthier soil and better wildlife habitat, all while improving agricultural operations,” said Juan C. Hernandez, NRCS State Conservationist in Florida. “If you have an agricultural resource concern you are ready to address or a management system you want to try, now is the time to apply for EQIP.”
While applications are accepted for EQIP throughout the year, the current funding cycle for Florida NRCS closes on September 2, 2022. Interested producers and landowners can submit applications to their local NRCS office, and all applications received after that date will be considered for a future funding cycle.
Once an application has been filed, the local NRCS conservation planner will have a one-on-one consultation with the applicant to identify the applicant’s goals and objectives for the land and assess the condition of natural resources. An NRCS conservation planner will present conservation practices or systems to address and enhance these natural resources.
The amount of financial assistance available can vary based on practice priority and applicant status. Contact NRCS at your local USDA Service center for more information.