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Producers may miss EQIP boatArkansas The Environmental Quality Incentives Program, or EQIP, as administered by USDA/NRCS is usually overlooked by farmers and landowners, says Robert Seay, Benton County extension staff chair. To increase participation, the rules have been loosened, especially for improvement of grazing systems. In addition, the application deadline has been extended through Oct. 19 for the 2008 program year. EQIP in northwest Arkansas is specifically designed to address water quality concerns where it's related to animal manure management, reduction in ground water use, reduction of erosion and sediment movement and improvement of wildlife habitat. Nationally, 60 percent of EQIP funds are designated to improve livestock management programs that can include: fence systems; water systems; seeding; fertilization; liming and tillage. Basically, fundable practices are many which good managers are considering more closely in efforts to increase livestock production efficiency. "Last year, only two projects failed to be funded," Seay says, "which indicates that producers who develop a serious approach toward improving management practices will receive serious funding consideration." Applications will be evaluated for funding based on a state developed procedure to optimize environmental benefits. Cost-share funding of approved practices is set at 50 percent, with some producers receiving 75 percent funding. Eligible land includes cropland, pasture, private non-industrial forestland and other farm and ranch lands. One serious aspect of EQIP funding for land in northwest Arkansas has to deal with long-term commitment. The sale or use alteration of property during the contract period must be kept in mind. In other words, if an EQIP contract is not fulfilled, repayment of cost-share funding will be required. However, these are issues to discuss when producers contact their local NRCS representative. For help with livestock management programs, contact your county office of the Cooperative Extension Service. The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture. Date: 10/9/07
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