NRCS Allocates Millions for California Conservation Priorities
TL/DR –
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in California is inviting applications for three conservation priorities till February 16, 2024. This funding is supplementary to what’s available to the state’s agricultural producers through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Inflation Reduction Act. The three initiatives involve projects to improve water infrastructure, conservation actions to enhance water quality, and a new scheme to assist farmers transition to organic farming methods.
USDA-NRCS California’s Conservation Priorities: Funding and Applications
USDA-NRCS California is receiving applications for its three major conservation priorities until February 16, 2024. These are in addition to the funds available to California’s agricultural producers via the regular Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the newly introduced Inflation Reduction Act.
NRCS’s Commitment to Conservation
“Our aim is to assist agricultural producers in addressing critical resource needs across California through these three initiatives. They bring important water quality and organic partners to assist in meeting the needs of producers,” said NRCS California State Conservationist Carlos Suarez. Landowners interested in these initiatives can contact their local NRCS offices or visit NRCS’s service center locator.
Conservation Practices and Initiatives Under EQIP
- Partnership projects with NRCS and Bureau of Reclamation through WaterSmart to improve water infrastructure, delivery, and application on farms.
- National Water Quality Initiative for focused conservation actions to improve water quality.
- The new Organic Transition Initiative to aid farmers transitioning to organic farming methods.
EQIP’s Environmental Benefits and Assistance
EQIP provides financial help to agricultural producers to solve natural resource concerns and yield environmental benefits. These include better water and air quality, improved irrigation efficiency, and the creation or enhancement of wildlife habitat.
Free Technical Assistance from NRCS
NRCS offers cost-free conservation technical assistance to provide producers with personalized advice and information. Conservation practices established in a free, personalized conservation plan can assist in achieving agricultural production and conservation goals.
Special Provisions for Historically Underserved Producers
Special provisions are accessible for historically underserved producers. These producers are eligible for advance payments to offset upfront costs related to purchasing materials or contracting services, and can receive higher EQIP payment rates.
About NRCS
Since 1935, NRCS has been a leader in a collaborative effort to help America’s private landowners and managers conserve their natural resources. For more information, please visit NRCS’s California programs.
Source: NRCS
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