OWENSVILLE, OH – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced fiscal year 2022 assistance opportunities for agricultural producers and private landowners for key programs, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). While NRCS accepts applications for these programs year-round, producers and landowners in Ohio should apply by January 14, 2022 dates to be considered for this year’s funding.

Christina Gates, the NRCS District Conservationist for Brown and Clermont Counties, says, “Through these programs, NRCS is able to provide technical and financial assistance to help producers and landowners make conservation improvements on their land that lead to healthier soils, cleaner water and improved agricultural operations.”

Under EQIP, producers may receive financial help with 170-plus conservation practices such as cover crops, nutrient management, conservation tillage, filter strips and more. CSP helps producers take their conservation activities to the next level through comprehensive conservation and advanced conservation activities. Additionally, through RCPP, producers and landowners can work with partners such as local Soil and Water Conservation Districts who are co-investing with NRCS on targeted projects.

Farmers in Clermont and Brown Counties interested in applying should contact Christina Gates at (513) 732-2181 or christina.gates@usda.gov.