The Environmental Quality Incentives Program or EQIP is a federally-funded program that offers technical advice and financial assistance to landowners to install or implement various conservation practices. Time is running out for sign-up for this program as the enrollment period for the upcoming funding year ends on February 16, 2024.
The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) is the go-to agency to initiate this process. USDA ranks applications based on practices that promote soil health; water quality and quantity improvement; nutrient management; pest management; air quality improvement; wildlife habitat development (including pollinator habitat); and invasive species management. Meeting with the NRCS staff will provide specific amounts of compensation that will be provided for your specific project.
The length of an EQIP contract varies; contracts can last up to ten years, though most last for one to three years. Any practices that are accepted by NRCS for implementation cannot be already established or started prior to approval of the application.
One of Ohio’s priorities for EQIP Practices includes Wildlife Habitat and there are several options to choose from. Some of these include Upland Wildlife Habitat Management, Conservation Cover, Wildlife Habitat Planting, and even Structures for Wildlife. Some supporting practices that are eligible for EQIP and benefit wildlife include Brush Management, Herbaceous Weed Control, Forest Stand Improvement, and Field Border. As stated earlier, these are only a few of the options available for Wildlife Practices.
One example of practices we see here in Seneca County include grapevine and other invasive plant removal. EQIP could pay some of the costs associated with the removal of those invasives. If you wish to enhance wildlife habitat through plantings, structures or, other habitat management activities, EQIP can defray some of those costs.
The place to start is to contact NRCS for a meeting at your property to discuss your ideas and determine your property’s eligibility. To arrange a site visit, call Rick Hassinger at the Seneca Conservation District at (419) 447-7073 or Derek Benner/Allison Sendelbach of the NRCS at (567) 207-2930.
