NRCS Enrollment Deadline for EQIP and WHIP Approaching

By Petra Barnes

January 9, 2004

Farmers and ranchers have until February 6, 2004 to be considered for enrollment into the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) during Fiscal Year 2004. Previously submitted applications as well as newly submitted ones received prior to February 6, 2004 will be eligible for enrollment within FY-04. Applications received after February 6, 2004 will be eligible for enrollment within fiscal year 2005.

EQIP is a cost-share program that provides financial assistance for certain conservation practices, such as grass planting, tree plantings, installation of irrigation facilities and wildlife habitat enhancement, while WHIP encourages the creation of high quality wildlife habitat that support wildlife populations of national, state, tribal and local significance.

"It’s important that landowners contact their local USDA Service Center as soon as possible if they are interested in receiving 2004 funds," says Dennis Alexander, NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs. "Not only is time running out, there have also been changes to some cost-share rates that applicants need to know."

Interested applicants may apply at the NRCS field office that services their county. Field offices are located in USDA Service Centers across the state.