The Natural Resources Conservation Service in Colorado is currently accepting applications for enrollment into the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. EQIP is a voluntary Farm Bill program which provides financial assistance for conservation systems such as animal waste management facilities, irrigation system efficiency improvements, fencing, water supply development, riparian protection and wildlife habitat enhancement. Producers interested in implementing conservation practices to improve natural resources on their private agricultural land have until Jan. 18, 2019 to submit applications.
The opportunities to participate in EQIP are diverse. In addition to the general EQIP enrollment, the program also affords socially disadvantaged, beginning, and limited resource farmers and ranchers specific opportunities to improve or enhance natural resources on their lands. There are even specific opportunities for landowners impacted by the 2018 wildfires and those with interests in organics, improving wildlife habitat, forest health and air quality.
Producers must have farm records current with the Farm Service Agency and submit a complete program application to NRCS to be considered for financial assistance through EQIP. Applications are accepted at all Colorado NRCS offices located in USDA Service Centers across the state. To find out more information about EQIP and locate a local NRCS office near you, please visit www.co.nrcs.usda.gov and select the Contact Us or Programs links.
When visiting with NRCS staff about the EQIP program, landowners are encouraged to inquire about NRCS’ comprehensive conservation plans. The agency continually strives to put conservation planning at the forefront of its programs and initiatives. Conservation plans provide landowners with a comprehensive inventory and assessment of their resources, as well as an appropriate start to improving the quality of soil, water, air, plants and wildlife on their land.
