FROM STAFF REPORTS

The Natural Resources Conservation Service is taking applications for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. EQIP is a voluntary program that provides assistance to farmers who face threats to soil, water, air and related natural resources on their land.

Those engaged in livestock or agricultural production are eligible for the program. Eligible land includes cropland, pasture, private non-industrial forestland and other farm or ranch lands.

NRCS works with the participant to develop a conservation plan that identifies problems, land use objectives and planned practices.

This plan becomes the basis of the cost-share agreement between NRCS and the participant.

NRCS provides cost-share payments to landowners under these agreements that can last up to 10 years.

Those interested may file an application at any time. The date of the first batching period for statewide concerns is Dec. 15.

The first batching period for local concerns is Jan. 1, 2006. For information about the program, call 669-5121 or 669-7136