Florida agricultural producers and landowners have more time to apply to participate in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for the current funding cycle. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida has announced the signup has been extended to September 30, 2022.
Juan C. Hernandez, Florida State Conservationist, notes the extension will allow more farmers, ranchers, and non-industrial private forestland managers to apply for the program.
Through EQIP, a voluntary conservation program, NRCS provides agricultural producers and landowners with financial resources and one-on-one help to plan and implement improvements, or what?NRCS?calls conservation practices 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 Hernandez. “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.”
EQIP applications are accepted throughout the year; but applications received after this date will be considered for a future funding cycle.
Interested producers and landowners should act quickly to submit their application to their local NRCS office. Contact your local NRCS field office for more information.