Natural Resources Conservation Service Accepting Second Round of 2009 WHIP Applications through June 19, 2009

Little Rock, Ark., May 28, 2009 – Farmers and landowners in Arkansas have until June 19, 2009, to submit applications for a second round of sign ups to receive cost-share assistance to implement conservation activities through the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) for the 2009 program year. Applicants can sign up at their local USDA/NRCS field service center.

NRCS Reopens Sign Up for New Organic Initiative, June 5 through June 26, 2009
 

LITTLE ROCK, ARK., June 5, 2009 — Arkansas will receive more than $1.1 million for a new initiative to meet the Obama Administration’s promise to encourage more organic agriculture production.  Applications received from organic producers or producers in transition to organic farming will be accepted under this initiative June 5 through June 26, 2009. 

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces Eight Floodplain Easement Selections in Arkansas Through Recovery Act Funding
 

TERRE HAUTE, Ind., June 2, 2009 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today selected 289 applications for the first national sign-up for floodplain easements under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The easements will cover more the 36,000 acres of land in 36 states. Eight easements were selected in Arkansas on 1,501 acres for $2,237,586.

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces $84.8 Million for Vital Watershed Projects

Recovery Act Assistance will Help Logan County in Arkansas
 

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2009 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the USDA will be sending $84.8 million to state and local governments to improve water quality, increase water supply, decrease soil erosion, and improve fish and wildlife habitat in rural communities as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009.

Arkansas will receive $134,000 for repairs to the Upper Petit Jean Watershed Site No. 9 project. The 310-acre reservoir in Logan County provides flood control for 19,872 acres and water supply for the city of Booneville.

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack Announces $45 Million for Rehabilitating Flood Control Structures

Recovery Act Project in Scott County to Protect Public and Property

LITTLE ROCK, April 15, 2009 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture is distributing $45 million in Recovery Act funds to rehabilitate aging flood control structures nationwide. These projects will help revitalize dams and rural economies by creating jobs and supporting local businesses that supply needed products and services.