The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Georgia (NRCS-GA) reminds agricultural and forest producers that sign-up for a fiscal year 2025 statewide federal assistance opportunity continues. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) sign-up runs through November 15, 2024.
While applications are accepted year-round, this ranking date announcement is for all general EQIP, special initiatives, as well as the IRA-funded Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry mitigation activities that address grazing, forestry, soil health, air quality and energy related resource concerns.
NRCS conservationists will work with producers to assess the conservation needs on their land, identify resource concerns and opportunities and help determine objectives and recommend solutions.
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.
As 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.
To learn more, contact NRCS at your local USDA Service Center by November 15th.