Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Eric B. Banks, announced that the application evaluation cutoff date will be, Friday, November 16, 2012, for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

EQIP is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers through contracts up to a maximum term of ten years in length.  These contracts provide financial assistance to help plan and implement conservation practices that address natural resource concerns and provide opportunities to improve soil, water, plant, animal, air, and related resources on agricultural land, such as cropland and rangeland, and non-industrial private forestland.

“This is a very popular program in Kansas, and I know fall is a busy season.  The NRCS wants everyone to have the opportunity to develop a conservation plan and submit an application in time,” said Banks.

Applications are accepted year round, but those received by November 16, 2012, will be evaluated for fiscal year 2013 funding.  Applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements.

“EQIP helps address the unique circumstances of socially disadvantaged, limited resource, and beginning farmers and ranchers, who have natural resource concerns that need to be addressed on their land," said Banks.  Qualifying Kansas producers compete separately and receive higher payment rates.

For more information visit the Kansas NRCS Web site www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov/programs or your local U.S. Department of Agriculture Service Center.  To find a service center near you, check your telephone book under “United States Government” or on the Internet at offices.usda.gov.  Follow us on Twitter @NRCS_Kansas.  USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.