Don't Forget!- EQIP & WHIP Sign-ups end January 29!

USDA NRCS IN KENTUCKY ANNOUNCES 2010 FARM BILL PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
Application and Ranking Schedules for 2010. First ranking cut-off period for Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) applications will be January 29, 2010

Fiscal Year 2010 is underway and conservation Farm Bill programs are in effect.


Lexington, Ky., November 25, 2009— After the harvest season, November is usually the time we celebrate and give thanks. It is also time for producers and landowners to consider planning for the next growing season.

Each fiscal year, NRCS sets dates for application and program ranking. Although dates may vary from one program to another, landowners may sign-up at any time for all conservation programs.

Conservation Planning is an integral part of the conservation process and that anyone seeking cost share assistance will be provided an up-to-date conservation plan that includes the practices needed to address their resource concerns.

The conservation plan allows the landowner to combine farming skills with the technology tools available from NRCS and conservation district staff, to provide the best and up-to-date information used to apply conservation practices and make decisions regarding the natural resources on the land.

Anyone can apply for assistance whether or not they have a conservation plan but our first step will be to develop a plan that meets the participants objectives.

There are two programs, WHIP and EQIP, with an upcoming cut-off date of January 29, 2010 for application ranking.

As in past years, assistance is available on Cropland, Pastureland and Hayland. New, for 2010, is additional funding for Forestland practices. The forestland provision offers a potential to improve, manage and restore essential habitat as well as protecting a natural resource.
If you are interested in participating Farm Bill conservation programs, you should definitely sign-up and request a conservation plan.