USDA conservation resources grant applications due Nov. 18

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is encouraging all Delaware agricultural producers to apply for conservation resources to improve the health and productivity of their agricultural land. The first application cutoff date is Friday, Nov. 18.

Funds can help Delaware farmers and landowners plan and implement conservation practices to improve soil, water, plant, animal, air and related resources on eligible agricultural and non-industrial forest land. Popular practices include waste storage structures, heavy-use area pads, high tunnels, energy, cover crops, irrigation water management, poultry windbreaks and more.

Delaware NRCS is highlighting two initiatives this fiscal year. A separate fund pool is available for wildlife practices to manage nesting cover, brood-rearing habitat, forage habitat and escape cover for Northern Bobwhite in priority areas throughout the state. A separate fund pool is available to create shallow-water ponds and other wetland practices to support American Black Duck habitat development.

NRCS conservationists will work with producers to develop a conservation plan on their land to identify concerns and opportunities, help determine objectives and recommend solutions.

Last year, Delaware approved a combined 169 EQIP and AMA contracts covering nearly 16,500 acres for a total of $7.7 million.

To be eligible for program assistance, producers must have an eligible resource concern on their agricultural operation at the time of application. Historically underserved producers may request advance payments for Environmental Quality Incentives Program practices, which provides the producer with a payment of at least 50 percent for practice implementation.

To apply for financial assistance, contact the USDA Service Center in Sussex County at 302-856-3990, Ext. 3. To learn more, go to de.nrcs.usda.gov.