COLUMBIA, Mo. – The Missouri USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is now accepting applications for accelerated Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) ACT NOW funding to help grazing operations diversify their operations and build climate resiliency.
Through this unique opportunity, producers and landowners can receive technical and financial assistance for the establishment of native forages by either renovating existing non-native forage for haying or grazing or converting cropland to native forage for haying or grazing. Native grasses can increase daily wight gain during the summer slump, improve conception rates and are resilient to drought.
NRCS in Missouri will accept applications until August 1, 2023, for the EQIP Climate Smart Agriculture – Native Forages Initiative. Applications submitted prior to August 1, 2023, will be assessed and ranked as soon as the applicant has made treatment decisions through a conservation plan.
Based on fund availability, applications that meet a minimum threshold will be preapproved immediately, allowing the applicant to ACT NOW. Application assessments below the minimum threshold will be batched and funded in ranking order as funding allows.
The Missouri Department of Conservation is offering additional funding in select geographies. More information can be found at EQIP – Native Forage Initiative | Missouri Department of Conservation (mo.gov)
For more information about NRCS programs and assistance, visit www.mo.nrcs.usda.gov or contact the NRCS service center serving your county. NRCS employees in county offices can provide more information about how to apply for benefits offered by NRCS.