AGENCY: Natural Resources Conservation Service
Environmental Quality Incentives Program
Type: Cost Share and technical assistance, including assistance with conversion to organic and to improve water management
Max Award: $300,000 total over a six-year period subject to available funding which varies by year.
Big Idea: The Environmental Quality Incentives Program protects natural resources by providing direct financial support to farmers and ranchers who want to improve their environmental stewardship. There is a $50 million set-aside reserved for farmers who would like to convert to organic production.
Who can apply:
- Bus. & Individuals: Individuals and businesses in livestock or agricultural production and owners of non-industrial private forests.
Can you see an opportunity where you live?:
- Real Examples: In Nashua Montana, Travis and Kyle Nielson used the EQIP program to diversify. They used to grow wheat, and now they grow pinto beans, mustard, peas, lentils, barley and canola as well. This divirsification was made possible with technical assistance and cost sharing through EQIP which supported them in converting to more efficient irrigation technologies and using crop rotations rather than inputs to create soil fertility.
- Get more information:
To apply for any USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service programs, contact your state or local office.
