Kansas agricultural producers who want to improve natural resources and address concerns are encouraged to sign up for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).  Kansas NRCS State Conservationist
Eric B. Banks announced that November 20, 2015, will be the deadline.

 "Producers can sign-up for EQIP at any time throughout the year, but to compete for the upcoming funding, I encourage producers with resource concerns to submit an application by the application deadline," Banks said.

 EQIP is a voluntary conservation program available for agricultural producers.  Through EQIP, NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to install conservation practices that reduce soil erosion and sedimentation, improve water and air quality, and create wildlife habitat.

Many applicants have interest in financial assistance to address soil erosion and water quality issues on cropland.  However, there is also financial assistance available for grazing land operations, confined livestock operations, organic producers, and wildlife habitat improvement, just to name a few.  More information about financial and technical assistance can be found on the Kansas NRCS Web site at http://www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov.

EQIP also helps address the unique circumstances of socially disadvantaged, veteran, 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.

 Producers interested in EQIP should submit a signed application to the local NRCS field office.  Applications submitted by November 20, 2015, will be evaluated by NRCS staff.

 For more information visit the Kansas NRCS Web site (www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov/programs) or your local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) 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.