Wisconsin's State Conservationist Urging Farmers to Sign Up Early for USDA Conservation Funding

Thursday, November 5th, 2020 -- 9:02 AM

(Wisconsin Ag Connection) -Wisconsin's state conservationist is urging farmers to plan ahead and sign up early for USDA conservation funding.

Angela Biggs announced that landowners interested in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program need to apply by November 20 for funding in 2021. Applications are being taken at all USDA Service Centers.  EQIP is the primary program available to farmers and landowners for farm and woodland conservation work, offering payments for over 120 basic conservation practices.  "The new Farm Bill allows NRCS to support conservation that ensures cost-effective financial assistance for improved soil health, water and air quality and other natural resources benefits," said Biggs. "By getting EQIP applications in early, NRCS staff will have time to assist in planning conservation practice needs."

All eligible applications received by the deadline will be evaluated, prioritized and ranked for funding in 2021. Farmers may contact their local USDA Service Center to get started on producer eligibility and planning. Biggs reminds farmers who are interested in practices that may require permits, such as manure storage or streambank restoration, to begin planning and seeking permits as soon as possible.  Last year, Wisconsin received over $33 million in funds for EQIP practices.

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