NEWS

United States Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
9173 W. Barnes Dr., Suite C
Boise, Idaho 83709
 
For More Information:
Bob Bartholomew, 208-378-5703
Alexis Collins, 208-685-6978

Natural Resources Conservation Service Extends Application Deadline for Programs

BOISE, Idaho, January 9, 2009, --  The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Idaho further extended the due date for two incentive programs that help Idaho’s farmers and ranchers. Applications for 2009 funds for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) will be accepted until the close of business on Friday, February 13, 2009. 

“Applications for these programs was extended last October because the rule making process for the 2008 Farm Bill delayed program implementation,” explained Jeff Burwell, Idaho State Conservationist.  “However, the number of applications we’ve received is down and we want to give landowners one more opportunity to apply for these funds.”

Both EQIP and WHIP are voluntary programs that provide funding to improve soils, water, wildlife habitat and other resources on farms and ranches.  Information on these programs, and how to apply, is on the NRCS Web site at http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/ or visit your local USDA Service Center.