The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) recently announced a sign-up deadline of Oct. 15 for first round applications under the Environmental Quality Incentive Program, EQIP.

This program, administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, offers incentives to implement best management practices on nearly every area of the farm.

Some of the more popular incentives are those to address barnyard issues. Heavy-use winter feeding pads, and liquid and dry stack manure storages are both excellent ways to handle muddy barnyard conditions and to provide temporary storage of manure when field conditions are not conducive to spreading.

To be eligible for these practices, farmers are encouraged to develop a nutrient management plan before applying for funding. However, the NRCS offers incentives to develop a comprehensive nutrient management plan as a contract item for farmers who are still on the fence regarding implementing a barnyard plan.

For farmers who are interested in pasture practices, several options are available. The NRCS can provide incentives to implement a full rotational grazing system where livestock are moved on a week or less rotation or components of the system to further improve existing pasture areas. Interior fence and additional watering points are popular options to maximize pasture production.

For those interested in cropland practices, transitioning to no-till and cover crops are two options that will fit most farms. Grassed waterways, especially on rented ground, are a good fit in cases where a landowner won’t commit to a 10-year contract required by the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program.

Finally those interested in forestry practices or plans are eligible for incentives under the program as well. Forest management plans, developed by a private consulting forester, detail best management practices that remove invasives, improve hardwood tree production.

While this list is just a small sampling of practices and areas that can be addressed, those interested should contact our office for more information and program details.

Andy Gaver is a conservationist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Butler County.