Even though a new Farm Bill has not been passed, NRCS continues to accept applications for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program. In order to be considered for the upcoming year’s funding, submit an application by Nov. 16. NRCS will screen and rank eligible applications up until that date.
For those who have not yet applied, NRCS recommends you submit an application immediately to ensure consideration this quarter. For producers who’ve already submitted applications, NRCS will be sending deferral letters over with directions to notify NRCS on whether to proceed with, modify, or cancel their application.
To be ready for EQIP funding consideration, interested applicants will need to:
- Develop a conservation plan
- Submit an application
- Meet program eligibility requirements
- Approve their EQIP schedule of operation
For a list of funding opportunities, please refer to the EQIP website. Any application not considered for this quarter’s obligations will be processed for funding consideration after February 1, 2019.
An EQIP application must be supported by a conservation plan, co-developed by the landowner and the NRCS conservationist, listing the actions that will be undertaken to improve the natural resource condition being addressed and the timeline for doing so. The time needed to complete a conservation plan and process eligibility can vary, from a few weeks to more than a month.
EQIP provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers in order to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits. These include improved water and air quality, improved irrigation efficiency, reduced soil erosion and sedimentation, forest restoration and creating or enhancing wildlife habitat.
RCPP promotes coordination between NRCS and its partners to deliver conservation assistance to producers and landowners. NRCS provides assistance to producers through partnership agreements and through program contracts or easement agreements. Click here to find an office near you.
