The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is currently accepting applications from agricultural producers for enrollment in the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). This program has received nearly $11 million in funding from the USDA to support farmers in protecting and enhancing natural resources and creating habitat for migratory birds and other avian species through the Migratory Bird Resurgence Initiative (MBRI).
The MBRI will provide up to $4 million in financial assistance to farmers in Arkansas in fiscal year 2024, with State Conservationist Mike Sullivan highlighting the importance of creating habitat on private lands to sustain migratory bird populations and enhance climate resiliency and carbon stewardship on working lands. By providing more nesting, food, and resting areas for migratory birds, the initiative aims to improve habitat for wildlife and promote natural resource conservation.
In addition to Arkansas, financial assistance through EQIP – MBRI is also available to farmers in California, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Texas. Farmers who are interested in receiving financial assistance must submit their applications by May 17th, 2024 for consideration this year. While applications for EQIP financial assistance are accepted year-round, specific program deadlines are in place for ranking and funding opportunities within each state.