2009 EQIP, WHIP, AND WRP FUNDING APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENSION ANNOUNCED

February 3, 2009

For More Information:
Carrie Mosley, 406-587-6967

Bozeman--Acting State Conservationist Randy Phelan has announced the extension of the deadline for submitting applications for fiscal year (FY) 2009 participation in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP), and Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) in Montana is March 13, 2009.

EQIP provides funding and technical assistance to help farmers and ranchers implement conservation practices that provide environmental benefits to help sustain the agricultural operation. Assistance to eligible participants includes the installation or implementation of both structural and management practices on eligible agricultural land. The 2008 Farm Bill clarifies EQIP purposes to include forest management and energy conservation, as well as practices related to organic production and fuels management. The Farm Bill authorizes increased payments for socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers in addition to beginning and limited resource producers up to 90 percent. It further allows these individuals to receive in advance up to 30 percent of the amount needed for purchasing materials or contracting.

WHIP is a voluntary program for private landowners to develop and improve high quality habitat that supports wildlife populations of National, State, Tribal, and local significance. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical and financial assistance. Land eligible for WHIP includes private agricultural land, nonindustrial private forestland, and Tribal land. The 2008 Farm Bill authorizes WHIP cost-share payments to landowners to develop other types of wildlife habitat including habitat developed on pivot corners and irregular areas.

WRP is a program providing technical and financial assistance to private landowners and Tribes to restore, protect, and enhance wetlands in exchange for retiring eligible land from agriculture. Wetlands provide habitat for fish and wildlife, including threatened and endangered species; improve water quality by filtering sediments and chemicals; reduce flooding; recharge groundwater; protect biological diversity; and provide opportunities for educational, scientific, and limited recreational activities.

NRCS accepts conservation program applications year-round; however, applications for EQIP, WHIP, and WRP must be made by March 13, 2009 to be considered for funding in FY 2009. Applications made after the application deadline will be considered in the next funding cycle. Additional information about the EQIP, WHIP, and WRP is available from your local USDA Service Center or at http://www.mt.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/.

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