The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has expanded planning and funding related to climate smart farming practices for farms.
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has expanded planning and funding related to climate smart farming practices for farms.
Recently the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) broadened its purpose to include new or expected resource concerns for adapting to, and mitigating against, increasing weather volatility; and addressing drought resiliency measures. Improving soil health is a key component for farm resiliency to long term changes in weather such as increased temperatures and increased rainfall. By increasing soil organic matter, you can increase your farm’s ability to absorb and hold water, reduce erosion, and increase and retain nutrients.
NRCS planners may have available (depending on the state) for fiscal year 2021 new practices such as:
- Soil Carbon Amendment (808)
- Soil Health Conservation Activity Plan (116)
- Agricultural Energy Design Plan (136)
- Soil Testing Activity (216)
These are in addition to established NRCS practices that can improve organic matter, reduce runoff and improve infiltration of water. Established practices include conservation cover, conservation crop rotation, cover crops, forage and biomass planting, pest management conservation system, mulching, nutrient management, prescribed grazing, and residue and tillage management. Applications for NRCS programs are accepted at any time but there is typically a cutoff for a particular year of funding. For more information about how to apply, or to discuss concerns on your farm, contact your local NRCS conservationist. Find the conservationist in your county.
By Elizabeth Marks, 2020 NRCS Liaison, USDA Northeast Climate Hub