Funding Available for Conservation Planning on Forest Lands and Livestock Operations Until May 29
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact information:
Todd Peplin, Program Manager, Todd.Peplin@or.usda.gov (541) 923- 4358

PORTLAND, OR, MAY 1, 2009 – Funding is available to livestock producers and private, nonindustrial forest landowners to develop Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMPs) and Forest Management Activity Plans in Oregon. This is a special signup under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) open statewide until May 29, 2009.

A CNMP is a professionally developed conservation plan that addresses all resource aspects of an animal feeding operation with an emphasis on the potential impacts of soil erosion and manure on water quality.

A Forest Management Activity Plan is a site-specific conservation plan prepared by a professional forester. The plan identifies and describes management actions and conservation practices that will help the landowners meet their objectives, maintain production, meet regulatory requirements, and enhance natural resources.

CNMPs and Forest Management Activity Plans provide specialized management and conservation strategies that meet NRCS conservation planning standards for USDA programs and help the operator address requirements of cultural resource, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other regulations.

After enrolling in EQIP, program participants develop their plans with Technical Service Providers who are approved by NRCS. Once the plan is complete, the participant may receive a program payment of up to 75 percent of the estimated cost of plan development.

Participants must enroll in EQIP before their CNMP or Forest Management Activity Plan is developed; payment is not retroactive.

Additional information and payment rates can be found on the NRCS Web site at: http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/eqip/CAP.html.

EQIP is a voluntary program of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Through EQIP, growers and landowners apply for assistance to plan and install measures to protect natural resources on working agricultural and forest lands. Those who enroll into the program receive funding and professional expertise for measures that protect natural resources while ensuring sustainable production.

For questions or to submit an application, please contact the local NRCS office listed online at: http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/basindir.html.

More information about EQIP is online at: www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/EQIP

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