The state Conservation Commission will be accepting applications for the Resource Enhancement and Protection Program beginning Aug. 4 on a first come, first served basis.

The REAP program allows farmers and businesses to earn tax credits in exchange for best management practices on agricultural operations that will enhance farm production and protect natural resources.

Eligible projects include:1. Tax credits for 75 percent of eligible costs include the following:n Nutrient Management Plan, AG. E&S Plan and/or conservation plan development,n BMPs for ACAs and barnyard runoff, stream bank fencing with 50-foot forested riparian buffers and 50-foot forested riparian buffers.2. Tax credits for 50 percent of eligible costs include:n Any commission approved BMP or equipment necessary to reduce existing sediment and nutrient concerns, such as manure storage systems, alternative manure treatment practices, filter strips, grassed waterways, management intensive grazing systems and no till planting equipment.n Stream bank fencing with 35-foot riparian buffers, grassed or forested.3. No tax credit will be provided for a publicly funded portion of a project.4. The tax credit is to be returned if the practice is not maintained for the life span of the practice.5. Tax credits can only be awarded to projects completed or equipment purchased after the effective date of the Act, which is Oct. 23, 2007.

Producers will need to have current:n A conservation plan (or an NRCS approved grazing (528) plan.n An agricultural erosion and sedimentation control plan.n A nutrient management plan, if required.Ron Fodor is district manager of the Butler County Conservation District.