For Immediate Release
Date: August 16, 2007

Contact:
Paige Buck, State Public Affairs Specialist, (217) 353.6606

NRCS Urges Farmers to Plan, Apply Early for EQIP

Champaign IL—State and local leaders from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service urge landowners interested in conservation programs and funds to begin planning and applying right now in order to prepare and position for next fiscal years available funds. “It makes no difference that the budget numbers and final program decisions and rules under the new Farm Bill aren’t carved in stone yet. There will be EQIP funds for conservation practices you need on your farm, so don’t wait around,” says NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs Ivan Dozier. “Get your conservation planning done now and you’ll be ready to apply for any conservation program that fits your need,” adds Dozier.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a NRCS program that offers cost-share assistance and technical assistance to protect soil and water resources on the land. For 2007, NRCS obligated nearly $14 million to Illinois producers. “Whether we get more or less than that next year, you can be assured that NRCS and Congress still want to help you protect resources on your ground, so don’t wait around for the first or last sign-up or batching period—get your application and your plan started today,” explains Dozier.

According to Dozier, once a conservation plan is developed with NRCS, producers gain a better understanding of what resource issues they have, what solutions they need on their land, or what they need to do so their application ranks out better. NRCS’ primary message to Illinois producers is that EQIP applications can be taken anytime, at any time of year. A conservation plan can be developed at anytime. NRCS staff can answer questions about programs or come out and look at your ground and develop a workable plan.

“That’s what we’d like to see happen. Start thinking about next year’s EQIP opportunities today. Get in touch with your local NRCS team and get ready for it so you’re ready no matter what comes out of the Farm Bill discussions,” says Dozier.

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