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Produce growers can get EQIP assistance for high tunnelsSpecialty crop producers wanting to construct a high tunnel, or hoop house, can now seek financial assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Environmental Quality Incentives Program. Ohio State University Extension will offer a workshop explaining those conservation opportunities on Feb. 18. The program will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at OSU South Centers at Piketon, 1864 Shyville Road, Piketon, Ohio. Registration is $5 per person. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering financial assistance to help growers construct a high tunnel, or hoop house, through the EQIP. This practice is part of a pilot project to see if high tunnels are effective in reducing pesticide use, keeping vital nutrients in the soil, extending the growing season, increasing yields, and providing other benefits to growers. The workshop is beneficial for anyone interested in learning how the EQIP program can benefit farming operations, as well as to better understand the conservation practices offered through EQIP. Abbe Copple, Pike County's NRCS district conservationist, will be on hand to explain what the USDA EQIP program has to offer to specialty crop producers and answer questions from attendees regarding requirements and the sign-up process. Prior to the meeting producers have the opportunity to view the information on the NRCS Web site at www.oh.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip/eqip2010.html, as well as fill out an application to apply for funding in 2010. Program applications are due by Feb. 16, however, producers are not required to submit further information if they decide not to pursue completing the application process after the meeting. Producers also have the opportunity to gather information this year and apply next year. Brad Bergefurd, an OSU Extension horticulturist, will explain how the production practices offered by EQIP can be beneficial to their operation. Program practices and activities are carried out according to an EQIP program plan of operations developed in conjunction with what the producer identifies as the appropriate conservation practice or measures needed to address the resource concerns. The practices are subject to NRCS technical standards adapted for local conditions. Several Ohio farmers already utilize EQIP for the conservation programs offered. The workshop is part of OSU South Center's Third Thursday Horticulture Business Training Series.
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