USDA Announces $6 Million for New Small-Scale/Limited Resource Farmers – New Initiative Available in Arkansas

WASHINGTON - The Natural Resources Conservation Service in Arkansas is providing up to $500,000 for a new Small-Scale/Limited Resource Farmers Initiative to help small farmers implement good conservation practices on their land.

Small-scale and limited resource farmers in Arkansas have until April 15 to sign up for the new Environmental Quality Incentives Program initiative which will help increase participation in USDA voluntary conservation programs through improved outreach efforts to limited resource farmers.

Individuals who have already signed up for EQIP, but could qualify for the new initiative, have until April 29 to decide whether to switch to this option.

"This new initiative helps us meet our commitment to assist small and limited-resource farmers in improving farm profitability while conserving soil and water resources,” said Kalven Trice, state conservationist.

"Small farms and ranches are part of the fabric of American life," said Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns. "This initiative will help us to better serve small farmers who play an important role in ensuring a safe, abundant and affordable food supply, while conserving our land."

The funds will help farmers with 100 acres or less of cropland implement conservation practices. To be eligible, at least 10 percent of the cropland acres must be planted to alternative crops. Cost-share rates will be up to 90 percent for all practices and contracts will be limited to $10,000. Applicants and land must also meet normal EQIP eligibility criteria.

The Small-Scale/Limited Resource Farmers Initiative emphasizes cost-effective, economical conservation practices for erosion control, water management and grazing land management and includes livestock watering facilities, fencing and irrigation systems.

Additional information for small farmers and ranchers is on the Web at http://www.usda.gov/oce/smallfarm and http://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/AFSIC_pubs/altlist.htm. Farmers interested in the Small-Scale/Limited Resource Farmers Initiative should contact their local USDA Service Center or NRCS office, located at http://offices.usda.gov or in the telephone book under Federal Government, U.S. Department of Agriculture.

< Back to News