Four Arkansas watersheds selected for 2005 Conservation Security Program

Little Rock, Ark., Nov. 3, 2004 – Four Arkansas watersheds have been selected for the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s 2005 Conservation Security Program. 

"This voluntary program supports ongoing conservation stewardship of agricultural working lands and enhances the condition of America's natural resources," said Kalven L. Trice, state conservationist."

The Cadron, Lower Neosho, Lower St. Francis and Lower White-Bayou Des Arc watersheds were selected in Arkansas.

All CSP applications that meet the sign-up criteria will be placed in an enrollment category regardless of available funding. In addition to legal contract requirements, the categories will consider the applicants' current stewardship (soil condition, tillage intensity, existing practices and activities) and will sort producers based on these factors. Categories also will examine producers' willingness to perform additional conservation activities during their CSP contract.

“CSP recognizes producers who are excellent stewards of the land and are willing to do even more by supporting ongoing conservation stewardship of agricultural working lands,” Trice said. “Agricultural producers in Arkansas have been protecting our soil and water resources for years. Now they will be rewarded for the stewardship.”

Eligibility will be based upon a three-tier system.

“To be eligible under Tier 1, producers must have completed conservation measures relating to water and soil quality on part of their land. Under Tier 2, the measures must cover the entire farming operation, and producers must agree to address at least one other resource concern.