VASCM: Grant Applications Due Nov. 2 for NRCS' EQIP Cost-Share Conservation Improvement Program

[Mary Lindsay]

This just in from the California Assn. of Winegrape Growers (CAWG):

Applications for conservation cost share grants are due Nov. 2 for the 
NRCS (USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service) Environmental 
Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).  This program provides financial and 
technical assistance to farmers interested in making voluntary 
improvements to natural resources on their land.  It can help implement 
improvements in water conservation, integrated pest management, nutrient 
management, air quality, etc. Assistance can be in the form of 
structures and conservation 'hardware' such as irrigation, as well as 
incentives payments to achieve environmental benefits. In 2007 
California approved 1190 EQIP contracts for almost $48 million. 
 Priorities for 2008 include air and water quality, and wildlife habitat.

A conservation plan, such as the one you complete through the 
Sustainable Winegrowing Self-Assessment Workshop, is a benefit in 
applying for EQIP. A conservation plan helps you assess the needs of the 
resources on your land and schedule the best remedies.

The Sustainable Winegrowing Self-Assessment Workbook is now available 
online.  With this new online self-assessment you can generate a 
cross-reference report to help support your application for cost-share 
funding through the EQIP program.  Contact Lisa Francioni at the 
Sustainable Winegrowing program for a user name and password: 
lisa at wineinstitute.org, or 415-356-7545.

For more information on EQIP:  www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/.