By Chandra Byrd Parsley/Facebook
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida continues efforts to assist agricultural producers and landowners affected by Hurricane Ian with disaster recovery. That includes the announcement of early start waivers for Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) emergency declaration counties. This will allow key conservation practices to start prior to conservation program contract approval.
Florida NRCS State Conservationist, Juan C. Hernandez, is encouraging agricultural landowners and producers to contact their local NRCS office now.
The 27 Florida counties identified for EQIP assistance are: Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Clay, Collier, Desoto, Flagler, Glades, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, and Volusia.
Producers and landowners interested in submitting an EQIP application who are unable to reach their local NRCS office, can contact the NRCS State Office at352-338-9500.