The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Georgia (NRCS-GA) is still accepting applications for a Fiscal Year 2024 statewide federal assistance opportunity from agricultural and forest producers. This signup, which runs until November 17, 2023, is through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
While customers can apply for EQIP year-round, this application ranking date announcement is for all general EQIP, special initiatives, as well as the Inflation Reduction Act -funded Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry mitigation activities that address grazing, forestry, soil health and energy related resource concerns. Customers should discuss these sign-up options with their local conservationist to see if any are right for them.
NRCS conservationists work with producers to assess the conservation needs on their land; identify resource concerns and opportunities; help determine objectives; and make recommend solutions – participation is 100% voluntary.
EQIP provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers and non-industrial forest managers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits such as improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, increased soil health and reduced soil erosion and sedimentation, improved or created wildlife habitat, and mitigation against drought and increasing weather volatility.
Producers can apply at their local USDA Service Center by submitting a Conservation Program Application (NRCS-CPA-1200) by November 17, 2023.
And a reminder, historically underserved producers approved for funding through EQIP qualify for the advanced payment option. This option allows these producers to get conservation practice payments in advance of the practice implementation.