Agricultural producers looking to solve natural resource problems on their farms should apply now for assistance through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).  

 

Application acceptance deadline for FY 2015 in Minnesota for EQIP is:

 

• October 17, 2014

• November 14, 2014

• December 19, 2014

 

EQIP is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers through contracts up to a maximum term of ten years in length.  These contracts provide financial assistance to help plan and implement conservation practices that address natural resource concerns and for opportunities to improve soil, water, plant, animal, air, and related resources on agricultural land and non-industrial private forestland.

 

EQIP is just one tool for landowners who want to put soil and water conservation on the ground.  By working with the local NRCS office, you will find out what NRCS programs might work best for you on your land. If not EQIP, then perhaps the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) or Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP).  

 

Applications for EQIP are accepted on a continuous basis, however, NRCS establishes application acceptance or submission deadline dates for evaluation and ranking of eligible applications.  Contracts will be awarded to producers’ with the highest rankings until funds are exhausted.  

 

To learn more about EQIP, contact 763-241-1170 ext. 3 for Anoka, Sherburne, and Hennepin County or your local NRCS field office or visit the MN NRCS website.