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Ivan Dozier, Illinois Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist, announced
that January 6, 2023 will be the EQIP application deadline.
“Producers can sign-up for EQIP at any time throughout the year,
but to compete for the upcoming funding period, I encourage
producers with resource concerns to submit an application by
this application deadline.” Dozier explains.
With EQIP, producers can successfully address 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 customized
conservation plans. New plan options are available for 2023 as
well as existing options for Comprehensive Nutrient Management
Plans (CNMP) and Forest Management Plans (FMP).
Producers interested in EQIP should submit a signed application
(NRCS-CPA-1200 form) to the local NRCS field office or submit
one 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 who wish to
use Farmers.gov can sign in or create an account by clicking on
the “Sign up” button in the upper right of the website.
EQIP applications submitted by January 6, 2023, will be
evaluated by local NRCS field office staff. NRCS staff will work
with each applicant to assess their 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 an EQIP 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 more information on EQIP, contact
the local NRCS field office or visit www.il.nrcs.usda.gov.
[Paige Buck, IL NRCS]
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