By Blake Jackson
The Missouri Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering financial and technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). This program helps them integrate conservation practices into their land management, improving natural resources and the environment.
Two Funding Options:
- EQIP ACT NOW: Offers faster decision-making for eligible applications meeting specific ranking criteria. Funding comes from both the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and EQIP Classic. Nine initiatives are available under ACT NOW, focusing on climate-smart agriculture, nutrient management, soil health, and wildlife habitat.
- EQIP Classic: Applications are ranked and funded based on availability after the March 29th deadline.
Benefits of EQIP:
Addresses natural resource concerns like water quality, soil erosion, and wildlife habitat.
Provides financial assistance to implement conservation practices.
Offers technical expertise from NRCS professionals.
How to Apply:
Applications for EQIP ACT are NOW accepted continuously until March 29th. Those submitted earlier receive faster assessment and ranking. Applications below the minimum threshold for ACT NOW will be considered for classic EQIP funding.
Overall, the NRCS EQIP program helps Missouri producers implement conservation practices that benefit both their land and the environment.
For more information about NRCS programs and assistance, visit www.mo.nrcs.usda.gov or contact Missouri Programs at (573) 876-0901 or MO.Programs@usda.gov.
Photo Credit: usda-nrcs
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy