Et cetera : NRCS Announces EQIP Drought Signup in Iowa

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is inviting Iowa farmers affected by the summer of 2012 drought to sign up for special Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funding. The signup runs Aug. 13-17.

According to Jon Hubbert, acting state conservationist for NRCS in Iowa, $150,000 will be available in Iowa with priority to affected farmers in the D3 designation on the U.S. Drought Monitor map. The special drought funding is available for planting cover crops and forages to supplement livestock feed and installing fence to improve grazing systems. Conservation practices are to be applied this year. “We understand the heavy loss of hay and forage impacting livestock producers in Iowa,” said Hubbert.

Along with providing valuable forage, cover crops reduce soil erosion on highly erodible lands, reduce weeds and pathogens, and help maintain soil health. Producers are encouraged to check with their crop insurance providers to be sure planting cover crops does not adversely affect crop insurance coverage.

Producers interested in financial assistance to address drought-related issues are encouraged to stop by their local NRCS office. For more information about EQIP, visit the Iowa NRCS website at www.ia.nrcs.usda.gov.