The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is investing $22,774,000 to help California agricultural producers respond to impacts of drought and other natural resource challenges through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
This funding will be available through Conservation Incentive Contracts, a new option available through EQIP. As part of this program, growers can voluntarily implement conservation practices and NRCS co-invests with them.
California is one of four states in the country implementing this important program that will provide producers with financial resources and one-on-one support to plan and carry out conservation practices. This includes practices that build drought resiliency, reduce the risk and threat from wildfires, lead to cleaner water and air, create healthier soil and better wildlife habitats, all while improving agricultural operations.
NRCS is accepting applications through July 12, 2021. Learn more by contacting your local USDA office and download an application here.
The best way to learn if EQIP is a good fit for you is by contacting your local NRCS office. If you choose to move forward, your local NRCS conservationist will guide you through applying for the program.
Applications for conservation practices and systems that will result in greater environmental benefits for national, state, and local natural resource goals will receive a higher priority to be offered a financial assistance contract.
Through 5- to 10-year contracts, producers manage, maintain and address important natural resource concerns and build on existing conservation efforts.
Once producers have chosen the right conservation practices for their land, they may be offered an EQIP contract to receive financial assistance for the cost of implementing certain practices. Payment rates for conservation practices are reviewed and set each fiscal year.