FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 27, 2009
For more information contact: Paige Buck, State Public Affairs Specialist, (217) 353.6606
 

EQIP, WHIP Applications Now Being Accepted by NRCS

Champaign, IL—Illinois landowners are encouraged to get 2009 applications in to USDA’s-Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) for participation in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives program (WHIP). NRCS in Illinois has funding allocations available for new applications. EQIP offers technical assistance, cost share payments, and incentive payments to crop and livestock producers in need of environmental and conservation improvements on land for agricultural production. WHIP directs similar funds and solutions at wildlife habitat development and management.

“So far, Illinois NRCS received $12 million dollars to begin funding approved EQIP contracts,” states Ivan Dozier, NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs. “I encourage landowners to get applications in soon before the first cut-off date of March 27, 2009.” A five percent allocation of funds will be targeted toward beginning farmers and socially disadvantaged producers; a new provision has been added for organic production. NRCS also has approximately $400,000 in funds dedicated to WHIP.

In EQIP, NRCS will focus some funds on developing activity plans for Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP), forestry, and grazing. EQIP offers many conservation practice and management options to ensure development of quality conservation plans. “We’ll hold at least three cut-off periods during the year, or as funds allow,” said Dozier. “Your best chance of being selected is in the first cut-off—where we know we still have funds available.”

Dozier recommends landowners visit their local NRCS field staffs to work on a conservation plan. While it is not mandatory to have a plan, it helps applications achieve higher scores if one is developed. The advantage of having a conservation plan is it allows landowners to gain a better knowledge of what and where resource issues are on the farm. Once determined, the methods, activities, and practices prescribed to address them could increase scores and ranking. For more information about EQIP or any NRCS conservation programs, visit your local USDA Service Center or visit our web site at: http://www.il.nrcs.usda.gov.

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