Landowners should apply for EQIP Program by Sept. 2

Agricultural producers and landowners in Florida are encouraged to apply to participate in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) by September 2, 2022, for the program’s current funding cycle.  EQIP is a competitive financial assistance program that assists landowners with resource concerns on their land.  Local farmers and landowners have utilized this program for reforestation after Hurricane Michael, improve their grazing management on their pastureland, plant pollinator habitat for apiaries, and reduce soil erosion on their cropland. 
Through this program United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) addresses resource concerns on farmland, pastureland, timberland, and other agriculture land.  Common practices implemented locally include, but not limited to; prescribed burning, tree establishment, herbaceous weed treatment for invasive species such as cogan-grass, livestock watering systems, livestock shade structures, and prescribed grazing which utilizes forages for best animal weight gain and health.  
The Blountstown NRCS Field Office services Calhoun, Liberty, Gulf, and Franklin Counties.  Applications are accepted year-round, but to be considered for this funding period, your application must be submitted by September 2, 2022.  You can contact us at (850) 674-6020 ext. 3.