| DECEMBER 23, 2011 -- Connecticut State Conservationist for the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Jay Mar recently announced three closing dates for ranking On-Farm Energy, Organic, and Seasonal High Tunnel Conservation Initiatives applications. All offer technical and financial assistance through the agency’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).
"Producers tell us they want to apply for these initiatives, but many want more time to make sure they choose the one that’s right for their operation," Mar said. "Moving to multiple ranking dates will make it easier for them to apply and begin implementing the practices they need to benefit natural resources."
NRCS accepts applications for financial assistance on a continuous basis; however, there will be three ranking periods for the Organic, On-Farm Energy, and Seasonal High Tunnel Initiatives. Applications for the first must be received by February 3; second by March 30; and third by June 1, 2012. At the end of a period, NRCS ranks all proposals that have been submitted for funding consideration. NRCS will notify applicants of the results and begin developing contracts with those selected.
Initiative Overview
• On-Farm Energy Initiative: NRCS and producers develop farm energy audits that assess energy consumption on an operation. NRCS then uses audit data to develop energy conservation recommendations.
• Organic Initiative: NRCS helps certified organic growers and producers working to achieve organic certification install conservation practices for organic production.
• Seasonal High Tunnel Pilot Initiative: NRCS helps producers plan and implement high tunnels that extend growing seasons in an environmentally safe manner.
For more information, visit the web us on the web at www.ct.nrcs.usda.gov/programs, or contact your nearest USDA Field Office:
Danielson - (860) 779-0557;
Hamden - (203) 287-8038;
Norwich - (860) 887-3604;
Torrington - (860) 626-8258;
Windsor - (860) 688-7725. |
