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To participate in EQIP, producers can apply
throughout the year; however, Illinois NRCS has established an
application deadline for January 7, 2022. Producers are
encouraged to submit an application by the application deadline
if they are interested in the program.
With EQIP, producers have successfully addressed natural
resource issues on their farm. Some EQIP activities include
installing structures to address gully erosion, improving
pastureland diversity by interseeding, and improving soil health
by increasing organic matter with cover crops. In addition to
conservation practices, EQIP funds the development of
conservation plans. New plan options are available this year as
well as the existing options of creating a Comprehensive
Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) and Forest Management Plan (FMP).
“In 2022, a new effort for the bobwhite quail is being launched.
EQIP will be available in 70 Illinois counties in the south and
west to restore and enhance quail habitat. Over the last half
century, the quail population has decreased dramatically. With
this effort, we can combat the decline of the bobwhite quail,”
said Dozier.
Producers interested in EQIP should submit a signed application
(NRCS-CPA-1200 form) to the local NRCS field office or through
the Farmers.gov website using their account. A blank
NRCS-CPA-1200 application form may be obtained from the local
office or on the Illinois NRCS website. Producers wishing to use
Farmers.gov, can sign in or create an account by clicking on
“Sign up” in the upper right of the website.
EQIP applications submitted by January 7, 2022 will be evaluated
by local NRCS field office staff. The NRCS staff will work with
applicants to assess land and resource concerns, answer ranking
questions, and determine program eligibility. If an application
is ranked high enough to be funded, NRCS staff will work with
the applicant to develop a contract.
EQIP is a voluntary conservation program available for
agricultural producers and forestry producers. Through EQIP,
NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to install
conservation practices. For information on EQIP, contact the
local NRCS field office or visit
www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/
nrcs/il/programs/financial/eqip/
[Paige Mitchell Buck]
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