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Maryland NRCS News Releases (2012)

Last Modified: 12/17/2012

Maryland Media Liaison:

Carol Hollingsworth, 443-482-2902
Genevieve Backus, 443-482-2911

USDA 2008 Farm Bill

Information

Deadline set for $11M in Federal Conservation Funding for Maryland Farmers

Annapolis, Md., December 13, 2012– The USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service in Maryland has $11 million available for producers interested in improving the health and productivity of their land in 2013.

“Many farmers may not realize that even though the 2008 Farm Bill has expired, NRCS is still offering technical and financial assistance to address resource concerns on crop and grazing lands, protect wildlife habitat, and keep land in agricultural production,” said Tom Morgart, Acting Maryland NRCS State Conservationist.

Farmers can sign up for conservation programs throughout the year, but funding selections are made at specific times and the first cutoff date is January 18, 2013. It is especially important for producers to get their applications in as soon as possible to be considered for limited funding.

“The Environmental Quality Incentives Program or EQIP is our most robust offering with many options for Maryland producers,” says Morgart. “This year, we have important livestock-related practices including manure storage, stream protection, heavy use areas, nutrient management planning, and manure management systems.”

The National EQIP Organic, Energy, and High Tunnel Initiatives are back this year. Through these initiatives NRCS seeks to help producers who are certified organic growers or working to achieve organic certification install conservation practices for organic production, help eligible producers plan and implement high tunnels, help producers to develop farm energy audits, and implement energy-saving conservation practices. Conservation Activity Plans are also available to help farmers better manage their resources.

Working Lands for Wildlife or WLFL is back for 2013 as well. Through this initiative, NRCS can provide funding to help reverse the decline of the threatened Golden-Winged Warbler and for Bog Turtle habitat restoration activities. Landowners in areas known to support these two species can apply for financial assistance for the improvement of wetland habitat for Bog Turtle Warbler (in Carroll, Baltimore, Cecil, or Harford Counties) or establishment of native grasses and forbs and early successional habitat for Golden-Winged Warbler (in Garrett, Allegany, or Washington Counties).

The Agricultural Management Assistance or AMA program will offer irrigation related practices in 2013.

In 2012, the number of applications for conservation financial assistance received far exceeded the amount of funding available. Producers are encouraged to apply immediately to ensure consideration for this funding cycle.

If you are interested in Farm Bill programs, contact your local NRCS office to identify and plan the conservation measures you would like to implement on your land. The conservationist can help you develop a plan, identify recommended practices, and pursue funding through one of the many Farm Bill program options available.

USDA Schedules Public Meeting in Maryland for December 5th on USDA Claims Process for Hispanic and Women Farmers

Annapolis, Md., November 6, 2012 — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agency officials in Maryland, representing the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and Rural Development (RD), announced they will be hosting a public, informational meeting on the USDA Claims Process for Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 5th, 2012 at 9 am in Frederick County at the New Midway Fire Hall, 12019 Woodsboro Pike, in New Midway, Maryland. (Hurricane Sandy’s damages to Maryland caused USDA to reschedule the meeting from October 30, 2012.)

If you, or someone you know, believe the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has improperly denied you farm loan benefits between 1981 and 2000 because you are Hispanic or Female, you may be eligible to apply for compensation and should attend the public meeting. The meeting will provide updates on current USDA programs offered by FSA, NRCS, and RD, as well a discussion of the Hispanic and Women Farmer and Rancher USDA Claims Process.

The Claims period opened on September 24, 2012 and will close on March 25, 2013. Claims must be filed during this claims period to be considered for cash payment or loan forgiveness. If you think you might be eligible to file a claim, please access the Farmers and Rancher Call Center or Website at 1-888-508-4429 or www.farmerclaims.gov.

“The opening of this claims process is part of USDA’s ongoing efforts to correct the wrongs of the past and ensure fair treatment to all current and future customers,” said USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. The USDA Claims Process offers a voluntary alternative to litigation for each Hispanic or Female farmer or rancher who can prove that USDA denied their applications for loan or loan servicing assistance for discriminatory reasons for certain time periods between 1981 and 2000.

For additional information about the USDA meeting in Maryland, contact FSA Maryland at (443) 482-2760.

Persons with disabilities who require accommodations to attend or participate in this meeting should contact Joseph Scott at (443) 482-2760; joseph.scott@md.usda.gov; or Federal Relay Service at 1-866-377-8642 by Friday, November 30, 2012.

Flyer
Meeting Information

USDA Schedules Public Meeting in Maryland for Tuesday, October 30th on USDA Claims Process for Hispanic and Women Farmers

Annapolis, Md., October 9, 2012 — U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) agency officials in Maryland, representing the USDA Farm Service Agency, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Rural Development, announced they will be hosting a public, informational meeting on the USDA Claims Process for Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 30th, 2012 at 9 am in Frederick County at the New Midway Fire Hall, 12019 Woodsboro Pike, in New Midway, Maryland.

For additional information about the USDA meeting in Maryland, contact FSA Maryland at (443) 482-2760.

NRCS and FWS Reach Historic Agreement to Extend Wildlife Conservation Efforts on Working Agricultural Lands

Regulatory Predictability will help Maryland Farmers Improve Bog Turtle and Golden Wing Warbler Habitat

WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Chief Dave White and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Director Dan Ashe recently announced an agreement that will provide long-term regulatory predictability for up to 30 years to [Insert Name of State’s] farmers, ranchers and forest landowners participating in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) initiative. Participants voluntarily implement proven conservation practices designed to protect wildlife habitat, such as the Bog Turtle and Golden Winged Warbler, on private lands.

“This agreement provides Maryland landowners with a way to keep working lands in production while complying with the Endangered Species Act (ESA),” State Conservationist Jon Hall said. “It helps our farmers, ranchers and forest landowners rest a little easier knowing their operations are protected in the long term and that they are helping conserve Bog Turtle and Golden Winged Warbler habitat and essential natural resources.”

The agreement builds on a $33 million investment NRCS announced last spring dedicated toward producers who develop and implement conservation plans to manage and restore high-priority habitats for seven specific wildlife species across the country. The species are greater sage-grouse, New England cottontail, bog turtle, golden-winged warbler, gopher tortoise, lesser prairie-chicken and the Southwestern willow flycatcher. NRCS, FWS and numerous state and local entities are partnering to implement WLFW.

With today’s agreement, farmers, ranchers and forest landowners who implement and voluntarily agree to maintain the proven conservation practices in WLFW will have addressed the related ESA regulatory responsibilities for up to 30 years. These landowners will be able to operate their farms and ranches as agreed upon, providing economic benefits and species conservation simultaneously.

Under the WLFW partnership, federal, state and wildlife experts jointly identified at-risk or listed species that would benefit from targeted habitat restoration investments on private lands. Using the best available science, these wildlife experts prioritized restoration actions on a large regional scale to focus assistance most cost effectively.

The federal government will grant farmers, ranchers and forest landowners regulatory predictability in return for voluntarily making wildlife habitat improvements on their private agricultural and forest lands. Participating producers must adhere to the requirements of each conservation practice during the term of their contract, which can last from one to 15 years. If landowners would like to receive regulatory predictability for up to 30 years, they must maintain the conservation practices as outlined in the NRCS and FWS agreement.

USDA Drought Code Sprint: Giving Americans One-Click Access to Federal Drought Relief

Americans across the country are feeling the impact of the most severe and extensive drought in the last 25 years. We’ve heard from people throughout the United States, asking how they can help. That’s why today we’re launching USDA’s first-ever Drought Code Sprint, a call to developers across the country to use publicly available government information to help farmers, ranchers, and others gain quick and reliable “one-click” access to information on drought conditions and Federal drought relief. Developers can submit their apps using this form by October 5, 2012. Some of the most innovative ones will be featured on USDA.gov.

Crops are withering as a result of this historic drought and feed for livestock is growing ever more scarce and expensive. None of us is immune—these conditions are affecting over 50% of the country and almost 80% of our agricultural land. But our rural communities and family farmers and ranchers are on the front lines, and have been the first to feel the drought’s full effects. They are working hard to overcome these hardships, and the Federal Government has stepped up to help.

Of course, apps can’t influence the weather or refill our reservoirs. But they can help farmers and ranchers become more easily aware of the kinds of assistance available to them, and they can simplify the process of taking advantage of these options so relief gets to the people who need it as efficiently as possible.

Some tools we’d love to see include apps that provide “one-click” access to the nearest USDA service centers and available drought programs; county-level drought disaster designations and program eligibility; information on Federal assistance available based on location and sector; types of loans or refinance options available with a handy repayment calculator and eligibility requirements; drought maps; and localized weather outlooks. These are just a few of our ideas but we’re confident that you have even better ones—so get coding!

To get started, check out these publicly available data sets in the Natural Hazards Data Community on Safety.Data.gov and on the USDA drought website:

USDA Service Center Locator
USDA Secretarial County Disaster Designations
Monthly Crop Production Reports
Weekly Crop Progress and Condition Reports
Hay Stocks
National Integrated Drought Information System
National Water and Climate Center data including SNOwpack TELemetry Network (SNOTEL) and Soil Climate Analysis Network (SCAN)

We encourage developers to use other freely available resources on safety.data.gov or the USDA website as well—including Agriculture Weather and Drought Outlook blog posts and Drought Assistance Programs and Information sites—and any other data resources that would be helpful to those affected by the drought.

Here is a great opportunity to apply American ingenuity and technology to the cause of helping America’s farms. We look forward to seeing your ideas.

Public Meeting Set for August 23rd on Progress of Upper Chester River Showcase Watershed

Annapolis, Md., August 17, 2012— Community members and conservation partners are invited to a public meeting to learn about the progress of the Upper Chester River “Showcase Watershed” conservation project on Thursday, August 23, 2012 from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at the Crumpton Fire Hall in Crumpton, Maryland.

The meeting is sponsored by the Project’s Core Partners which are the Kent Soil and Water Conservation District, the Queen Anne’s Soil Conservation District and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Representatives from the core sponsors and conservation project partners will provide an update on the successes and lessons learned so far in the project and outline information on what to expect in the next year of the model project.

The Upper Chester River Showcase Watershed Project is a USDA led effort to focus resources in a small area and work with partners in order to increase the adoption of conservation practices. Established in June 2010, the project’s partners have worked together for the last two years to:

Reach out to all of the watershed’s residents,
Give farmer’s credit for the conservation practices on their farms, and
Offer innovative programs, tools and technologies to help landowners become better stewards of their natural resources.

You can learn more about the Showcase Watershed conservation project by visiting www.upperchester.com.

Any meeting participant who requires special accommodation should contact Jen Nelson at jen.nelson@md.usda.gov or 410-758-1671 by August 22, 2012.

NRCS Announcing Grants to Help Farmers, Ranchers Adapt to Drought

$5 Million in Conservation Innovation Grants Available for Development of Novel Agricultural Practices

Annapolis, Md., Aug. 16, 2012 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) recently announced the availability of up to $5 million in grants to evaluate and demonstrate agricultural practices that help farmers and ranchers adapt to drought. NRCS is taking applications for Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) to help producers build resiliency into their production systems so they can adapt to climatic extremes, such as the historic drought impacting the nation.

NRCS is offering the grants to partnering entities to evaluate innovative, field-based conservation technologies and approaches. These technologies and/or approaches should lead to improvements such as enhancing the water-holding capacity in soils and installing drought-tolerant grazing systems, which will help farms and ranches become more resilient to drought.

“Severe drought conditions across the U.S. have greatly impacted the livelihood of our farmers and ranchers,” said NRCS Chief Dave White. “Conservation Innovation Grants allow us to generate and deploy as soon as possible cutting-edge ideas that help farmers and ranchers run sustainable and profitable operations.”

Grant applications are due Oct. 15, 2012. Private individuals, Tribes, local and state governments and non-governmental organizations can apply.

Funds will be awarded through a competitive grants process for projects lasting for one to three years. Apply electronically at www.grants.gov/ or contact the NRCS National CIG office at (703) 235-8065.

NRCS is especially interested in projects that demonstrate:

Cropping or grazing systems that increase resiliency to drought through improved soil health;
Increases in available soil water holding capacity by enhancing organic matter with reduced tillage, cover crops and organic amendments;
Improvements in water use efficiency for agricultural production;
Coordination with NRCS Plant Material Centers in using drought resistant plants and practices;
Recommendations for appropriate nutrient management following an extended drought;
Analysis on a regional basis of how agricultural production and conservation systems faired during drought conditions;
Agricultural approaches that flourished in low-precipitation areas;
Traditional/historical production practices that have proven effective in dealing with drought;
Alternative feeding systems for confined animal operations that incorporate novel drought-tolerant feedstocks;
Alternative housing or cooling systems for improved energy efficiency and better climate control in confined animal operations; and
Technologies that reduce water use in confined animal operations.

View the complete Announcement of Program Funding at www.grants.gov or http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/cig.

Mid-Atlantic Precision Ag Equipment Day

Farmers are invited to the 2012 Mid-Atlantic Precision Agriculture Equipment Day on Wednesday, August 8th from 9 am - 3:15 pm in Denton, MD.

Come and learn from some of the top, nationally recognized speakers in agriculture equipment and machinery engineering. Practical and informative advice will be given on precision seeding, economics and practical implementation of planter section control, modifying equipment for variable rate application, variable rate irrigation, and much more.

University of Maryland Extension is hosting the event at the Caroline County 4-H Park. Find more information on the website at http://www.agnr.umd.edu/Academics/departments/ENST/extension/Events.cfm.

NRCS Offers Funding for Planting Crop Mixes

Program makes $700,000 Available to Maryland Farmers

Annapolis, Md., May 10, 2012– USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will provide $700,000 to help agricultural producers in Maryland plant cover crops this fall. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis, but the cutoff date for 2012 cover crop funding is set for May 30, 2012.

“The Cover Crop Program is just one way NRCS helps farmers improve water quality and better manage natural resources on their farms,” said Jon Hall, NRCS State Conservationist. “Sign-up for the NRCS program is ongoing, but we’re asking farmers to apply as soon as possible, as funding is limited.

This year, NRCS is offering financial assistance to help producers plant cover crop mixes. Farmers can choose from several mixture options that include annual grasses, legumes, and brassicas. The Cover Crop Program is being offered as part of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative.

Cover crops planted in the fall between harvest and planting of spring crops help reduce soil erosion, limit nitrogen leaching, suppress weeds, increase soil organic matter, and improve overall soil quality. Cover crops increase surface cover, anchor corn and soybean residues, and increase water infiltration.

Producers interested in applying for NRCS Cover Crop Program funding must submit applications through their local USDA Service Center. Service Center locations and more information on NRCS programs can be found at www.md.nrcs.usda.gov.

NRCS and TNC Partner for Wetland Restoration in Nassawango and Dividing Creek Watersheds

Annapolis, Md., May 3, 2012– Maryland landowners located in the Nassawango and Dividing Creek watersheds on Maryland’s lower eastern shore may be eligible for wetland restoration assistance from the Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Program (WREP). The program aims to restore, enhance and protect high-priority wetlands and improve wildlife habitat.

The deadline to apply for assistance is May 18. In addition to the easement purchase price, The Nature Conservancy will provide a $5,000 incentive to the landowner upon easement closing.

The Nassawango and Dividing Creek watersheds are home to several rare and unique habitats that have been affected by changes in land use from native forest to commercial forests and cropland, and changes to the natural hydrology due to ditching and stream channelization. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is partnering with The Nature Conservancy to restore and protect the area by re-establishing hydrology within headwater wetlands and connections between riparian wetlands and streams, and protecting these areas with permanent easements.

“NRCS is pleased to partner with The Nature Conservancy to help landowners and managers restore and protect Nassawango and Dividing Creek watersheds,” said NRCS State Conservationist Jon Hall. “The benefits of healthy wetlands reach well beyond their boundaries to improve watershed health, the vitality of agricultural lands, and the aesthetics and economies of local communities.”

Through the WREP during fiscal year 2012, $500,000 is available to purchase 200 acres of permanent conservation easements in the Nassawango and Dividing Creek watersheds. WREP could provide $2 million total funding over four years to protect and restore 600 acres of land.

Since the first Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) easement in 1995, Maryland has acquired 43 permanent and 7 30-year easements. These easements have protected more than 7,216 acres of wetlands and associated uplands in the state.

Interested farmers with land located in the approved project area may apply for assistance at their local NRCS offices or by contacting Amy Jacobs at The Nature Conservancy, (443) 521-3034. In Somerset County, call (410) 651-0370 x 3; in Wicomico County, call (410) 546-4777 x 3; in Worcester County, call (410) 632-5439 x 3 to reach your local NRCS office.

NRCS Announces National Water Quality Initiative Conservation in Maryland

Up to $315,000 is available to agricultural producers in the Catoctin Creek Watershed

Annapolis, Md., May 8, 2012 — State Conservationist Jon Hall announced the launch of a new National Water Quality Initiative committed to improving impaired waterways in Maryland. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will manage the initiative by making funds available to farmers, ranchers and forest landowners in the selected watersheds.

“The Water Quality Initiative will further NRCS’ partnership efforts to improve water quality using voluntary actions on private lands,” Hall said. “In areas facing significant natural resource challenges, this initiative builds on the positive results of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative that NRCS and partners already have underway.”

Through this effort, eligible producers in the Catoctin Creek Watershed will invest in voluntary conservation actions to help provide cleaner water for their neighbors and communities. The selected watersheds were identified with help from state agencies, partners, and the NRCS State Technical Committee.

Using funds from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, NRCS will provide funding and technical assistance to producers to install conservation practices such as filter strips, stream fencing, and waste storage facilities in watersheds with impairments where the federal investment can make a difference to improve water quality.

“American farmers are good stewards of the environment, especially when they have the tools they need to protect or improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality,” said NRCS Chief Dave White. “We look forward to collaborating with producers in key watersheds to help them have a positive impact on streams with impaired water quality.

” The Catoctin Creek Watershed encompassed the southwestern portion of Frederick County and is framed by Catoctin Mountain on the east and South Mountain on the west. The Catoctin Creek watershed drains an area of 120 square miles, which includes areas of forested mountain slopes, agricultural valleys, and small towns. The area’s waters are impaired by sediments, nutrients, impacts to biological communities, and fecal coliform. The land use distribution in the watershed is approximately 43% agricultural, 42% forest/herbaceous, and 15% urban, with agricultural land mostly planted in row crops and pasture.

NRCS accepts applications for financial assistance on a continuous basis throughout the year. Contact the Frederick County USDA Service Center at 301-695-2803 to see if you are located in a selected watershed and to apply. All applications for funding consideration, during this fiscal year, must be received by June 15, 2012. This summer, NRCS will notify all applicants of the results and begin developing contracts with selected applicants. Since 1935, NRCS’s nationwide conservation delivery system works with private landowners to put conservation on the ground based on specific, local conservation needs, while accommodating state and national interests.

Fact Sheet
Map

Maryland National Water Quality Initiative Information

NRCS Maryland Seeking Proposals for Conservation Innovation Grants

The Natural Resources Conservation Service in Maryland is seeking proposals for Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) for fiscal year 2012. For fiscal year 2012, up to $300,000 is available for the Maryland statewide CIG competition. Grants to eligible entities and individuals may not exceed a maximum of $75,000 The CIG program is designed to stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies. Applications are due by 4pm on May 25th, 2012.

Additional Information

Final Applications for NRCS Organic Initiative Due June 1, 2012

Annapolis, Md., April 30, 2012 – USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Jon Hall reminds potential applicants to contact their local NRCS office soon to find out if they are eligible for the agency’s Organic Initiative. Applications for the final ranking period of 2012 are due at NRCS offices by close of business on June 1, 2012. The NRCS Office Locator is available at http://go.usa.gov/Uo8.

“Organic farming in Maryland is growing, and NRCS is committed to helping these farmers implement conservation practices that have been proven beneficial to organic production,” said Hall. “The Organic Initiative makes financial and technical resources readily available to local growers to improve the management and productivity of their operation.”

Since FY 2009, NRCS has provided $450,000 in financial assistance to Maryland certified organic producers, those who want to make the transition to organic production, and producers who sell less than $5,000 in organic products annually. Approximately $50 million is available nationwide in FY 2012.

Part of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, the Organic Initiative offers a wide array of conservation practices specifically designed for organic production. “Practices will help the selected applicants meet many requirements of their USDA Organic System Plans and stay in compliance with USDA’s National Organic Program,” Hall said.

The top five Organic Initiative conservation practices are cover crops, nutrient and pest management, seasonal high tunnels, crop rotation, and fencing.

This is the last opportunity for organic funding in 2012. While applications are accepted year-round, landowners are encouraged to visit their local office today. Learn more about the Organic Initiative at http://go.usa.gov/Uo9 and find out about other NRCS initiatives and programs at http://go.usa.gov/UoX.

Fact Sheet: Environmental Quality Incentives Program Organic Initiative

NRCS Maryland Celebrates Volunteers in Action

ANNAPOLIS, MD (April 19, 2012) --- “Our “Earth Team” volunteers are making a real environmental impact, not only in Maryland, but also across the Nation. Having volunteers working at our offices across Maryland provides additional staff support Helping People Help the Land,” said Jon Hall, State Conservationist for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland. National Volunteer Week is celebrated from April 15-21, 2012. NRCS is recognizing National Volunteer week by thanking and honoring its Earth Team volunteers for their service to conservation. The Earth Team is the agency’s volunteer workforce. Nationally in fiscal year 2011, over 22,000 Earth Team volunteers donated 435,653 hours of service to NRCS worth $9.3 million.

The NRCS theme for this year is ‘We are Celebrating Earth Team Volunteers in Action.’ Nora De La Rosa is the new Earth Team Volunteer Coordinator in Maryland. “As the new coordinator, I am dedicated to expanding Earth Team Volunteer opportunities across Maryland and Washington, DC and hope National Volunteer Week will motivate others to volunteer their support of our conservation vision—‘Productive Lands and a Healthy Environment’ to help NRCS with its conservation mission.”

If you are interested in volunteering with NRCS Maryland, contact Nora De La Rosa at nora.delarosa@md.usda.gov to receive an interest form and application.

You can also learn more about the Earth Team Volunteer Program online at: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/people/volunteers or by calling (toll-free) 888-526-3227. Since being formed in 1985, over a half-million Earth Team Volunteers have donated $336 million worth of time helping NRCS with its conservation mission.

New Working Lands for Wildlife Targets Bog Turtle Habitat

Annapolis, Md., April 5, 2012– The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Interior announced a new partnership to use innovative approaches with farmers and forest landowners to restore and protect the habitats of declining wildlife species. Working Lands for Wildlife focuses conservation dollars and wildlife expertise nationwide on the recovery of seven at-risk species for 2012, including two species in Maryland. These species were chosen during a collaborative process that considered the species’ status, the role of private working lands, and the importance of these keystone habitats to other vulnerable and game species.

One of the species chosen for 2012 was the bog turtle in parts of four Maryland counties including: Carroll, Baltimore, Harford, and Cecil. The area’s mosaic of open, sunny, spring fed wetlands and riparian areas was once considered a population stronghold for the bog turtle. Today, however, the turtles are federally listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

The threats to bog turtles, America’s smallest turtle, include wetland drainage, habitat degradation and fragmentation from land conversion, habitat succession due to loss of small dairy operations, invasive exotic and native plants, and illegal trade and collecting.

Private landowners own the majority of remaining bog turtle habitat in Maryland and have a tremendous opportunity to improve habitat for bog turtles. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in partnership with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), will assist private land owners in the creation and maintenance of habitat necessary to sustain healthy populations of bog turtles. Restoration efforts will focus on proper grazing management to slow natural plant succession and minimize the encroachment of invasive native and exotic plant species.

Bog turtles are an indicator of water quality and wetland function; the wetland habitats they require provide important ecosystem services, including water purification, underground aquifer recharge, and floodwater retention. The wetlands also support many rare plants and animals.

NRCS funds from the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) will share the cost of conservation practices with landowners in areas known to support bog turtles. Interested producers and landowners in priority areas who have bog turtle habitat on their lands can apply for WHIP on a continuous basis at their local NRCS field office. NRCS and USFWS staff will evaluate applications to determine whether the land contains bog turtle habitat and the potential for improvement or restoration.

For more information about Work Lands for Wildlife Bog Turtle habitat restoration, contact Steve Strano, Maryland NRCS, (443) 482-2928, steve.strano@md.usda.gov; or Julie Thompson Slacum, USFWS, (410) 573-4595, Julie_Thompson@fws.gov. For more information about NRCS programs or to find your local USDA Service Center, visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov.

New Working Lands for Wildlife Targets Golden-Winged Warbler Habitat

One of the species chosen for 2012 is the golden-winged warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera) in parts of three Maryland counties: Garrett, Allegany, and Washington. The vast forested lands, grasslands, and forb-rich landscape of the Appalachian Mountains were once considered a population stronghold for the golden winged warbler. Today, however, the population is at-risk for listing under the Endangered Species Act.

The most common explanations of population declines point to the loss and degradation of early successional habitat. Golden-winged warblers and many other species, like ruffed grouse or woodcock, depend upon shrubby, idle vegetated areas like forest clear-cuts, alder swamps, utility rights-of way and other similar habitats for breeding. Several factors have contributed to the decline of these habitats including direct losses to development, re-forestation of farmland, fire suppression, and changes in agricultural and forestry practices.

The Appalachian region offers a tremendous opportunity to improve habitat for golden-winged warbler and other wildlife, including the American woodcock. Providing structurally diverse vegetation for breeding and foraging offers a great opportunity to combat declines in golden-winged warblers and other early successional species.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will assist private land owners in the creation and maintenance of habitat necessary to sustain breeding populations of golden-winged warblers. This project will focus on the creation, management and maintenance of early successional habitat in close association with forested landscapes, or adjacent to active agriculture or pastureland.

NRCS funds from the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program (WHIP) will share the cost of conservation practices with landowners in areas known to support golden-winged warblers. Interested producers and landowners in priority areas who have warbler habitat on their lands can apply for WHIP on a continuous basis at their local NRCS field office. NRCS and USFWS staff will evaluate applications to determine whether the land contains golden-winged warbler habitat and the potential for improvement or restoration.

Sign-up Deadline for oyster program set for May 4, 2012

Annapolis, Md., April 2, 2012 – USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland today announced a May 4 application deadline for the Oyster Bed Restoration and Management program. NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to eligible applicants to restore oyster beds throughout Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay.

“Restoring oyster habitat is a critical part of our on-going efforts to improve natural resources in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed,” State Conservationist Jon Hall said. “I encourage all interested watermen and farmers to visit NRCS in their local USDA service center to sign-up today.”

NRCS has dedicated $315,000 in conservation funding to address the declining habitat of the oyster population in Maryland. Program options include bottom dredging to uncover lost oyster beds, allowing natural spat set, placing new bed, and planting spat on cultch.

Applicants must currently hold a Maryland Department of Natural Resources submerged land/on-bottom shellfish aquaculture lease or have deeded riparian rights to the area. Applications received by May 4 will be ranked and prioritized and considered for 2012 funding.

Healthy oyster beds provide benefits including a complex living habitat and a biodiverse ecosystem for many species of fish, crabs, mussels, barnacles, and other reef dwellers. Oysters serve as high protein food source for migratory waterfowl and other marine organisms. The water filtering capacity of oyster beds improves water quality as well as water clarity.

Individuals interested in learning more about this conservation opportunity should contact their local USDA Service Center, or visit www.md.nrcs.usda.gov.

NRCS Offers Grants and Agreements Training to Conservation Partners

Annapolis, Md., March 27, 2012– The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland is offering a free training seminar on “Grants and Agreements -- Supporting NRCS Conservation Programs” - to potential and current conservation partners. The training will take place on Wednesday, April 11, 2012 from 9 am to Noon at the Maryland Association of Realtors Building, 200 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, Maryland.

The seminar is designed to explain the various steps in applying for and implementing Federal grants and agreements. The training will include discussion about:

The difference between a grant and an agreement
The application process for grants and agreements
How to develop an application that meets the awarding agency’s specifications
Evaluating the impact a grant award will have on your organization
Submitting reports on financial accounting, project progress and evaluation
Working with your Federal NRCS technical point of contact

During the seminar, there will be frequent opportunities for participants to ask questions and receive information that will assist them in submitting future proposals and managing current awards for NRCS grants and agreements.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required by Friday, April 6, 2012. To register or obtain additional information, contact Denise Parker at (443) 482-2930 or denise.parker@md.usda.gov. Participants who require special accommodation should inform Denise Parker when they register.

The NRCS and Conservation Professional Training Program Present: The CRP Readiness Initiative

Cambridge, Md. – On April 10-11, conservation professionals have the opportunity to join nearly 200 other colleagues across the country who have already signed up to help farmers and landowners preserve soil, improve water quality, and increase wildlife habitat through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Readiness Initiative. A free two-day CRP training workshop will be held at the Cambridge Holiday Inn Express, 2715 Ocean Gateway, Cambridge. The registration deadline is April 2nd. The workshop is presented by the Conservation Professional Training Program and sponsored by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). It is part of a national initiative to train a group of conservation professionals and independent consultants to provide the planning, implementation, and management services associated with the Conservation Reserve Program.

“We are thrilled to have so much interest in our national training program so far. These conservation professionals emerging from our trainings now have detailed knowledge of national and state CRP conservation practices. They are ready to create, implement and maintain CRP conservation plans and ultimately help preserve our most fragile rural lands,” said Kevin Erb, Project Co-Director.

A team led by the University of Wisconsin-Extension and comprised of national university extension staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency (FSA) staff, and representatives from NRCS partner agencies and organizations has collaborated to streamline the trainings and make them accessible, convenient, and consistent across all states.

"With more people trained to help landowners, we expect more landowners to take advantage of the Conservation Reserve Program to protect our natural resources," said Erb. The Conservation Reserve Program gives farmers and landowners technical assistance and a financial incentive to reduce soil erosion and runoff, leading to improved water quality and wildlife habitat. Upon acceptance under a general or continuous program signup, a conservation professional trained in CRP planning helps a landowner assess his or her unique parcel of land, covering topics like land slope, cropping history, soil type, cultivation methods, and water quality. Upon completion of an assessment, the landowner and the conservation professional work together to create a CRP-conservation plan.

Natural Resources Conservation Service employees and conservation partners usually provide the technical services associated with CRP planning, but a wave of upcoming renewals has prompted a new effort to recruit and train a broader range of professionals to help meet planning demands. “The primary goal of the Conservation Readiness Initiative is to increase the capacity for states to manage CRP signups. We hope to train more people to provide technical service to landowners,” said Pat Leavenworth, State Conservationist for NRCS in Wisconsin. Independent conservation professionals, registered technical service providers, members of conservation associations, and employees of organizations with formal connections to NRCS are encouraged to participate.

Following the initial two-day training, participants in the CRP Readiness Initiative will have the opportunity to work directly with a project mentor, participate in online forums and webinars, and sign up for supplemental training courses as needed. During the summer of 2012, the training curriculum will be transitioned to an online format, which will be available for a course fee. Some of the topics to be covered during the free core workshops include: understanding the landowner’s objectives, developing a CRP plan according to national and state guidelines, and CRP best practices for conservation.

For more information, contact Kristen Saacke-Blunk, CRP Readiness Initiative Northeastern Media Contact, at (814) 863-8756 or ksaackeblunk@psu.edu. To register for the Maryland workshop, visit http://conservation-training.uwex.edu/crpworkshops.

Visit http://conservation-training.uwex.edu/media for full media kit.

This material is based upon work supported by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, under agency number 68-3A75-11-268, CDFA number 10.902. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative Targets Local Resource Concerns

NRCS seeks agricultural producer applications for financial, technical assistance

Annapolis, Md., February 14, 2012–Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland announced that $7.6 million is available to help farmers and ranchers implement conservation practices, as part of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative. CBWI helps producers and other private landowners and managers to implement conservation practices that protect the watershed’s soil and water resources and help maintain productive working agricultural lands.

CBWI helps farmers and forest landowner’s plant stream buffers, restore wetlands, properly manage manure and implement other conservation practices as part of USDA’s watershed restoration efforts.

CBWI is one of 15 Landscape Conservation Initiatives that address resource concerns of national importance by helping America’s landowners implement voluntary conservation practices to protect water quality, improve wildlife habitat and enhance the long-term sustainability of producers’ operations.

“Through landscape initiative partnerships we’re maximizing conservation efforts to address some of our most pressing natural resource challenges,” NRCS Chief Dave White said. “The result is far-reaching and long-lasting environmental benefits for the Nation.”

In coordination with local, state and federal agencies and organizations, NRCS’ Landscape Conservation Initiatives use a systems approach that focuses technical and financial assistance to implement a suite of conservation practices to address specific resource concerns. Through the CBWI farmers and ranchers are incorporating conservation practices to improve water quality such as planting cover crops into their agricultural operations.

“Maryland producers continue to express interest in utilizing NRCS financial and technical resources to implement conservation practices,” Maryland State Conservationist Jon Hall said. “CBWI allows NRCS to focus this assistance on water quality improvement, leading to productive lands and a healthy environment.”

Producers interested in becoming a part of the CBWI or any other NRCS programs and services, should contact their local USDA Service Center, or visit www.nrcs.usda.gov for more information.

2012 Conservation Easement Applications Due February 10, 2012

$5.5 million Available in Conservation Easement Funding for Maryland Landowners

Annapolis, Md., January 11, 2012– Private landowners interested in protecting their farmland or wetland with this year’s funding are encouraged to get their applications in soon. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland has set Feb. 10 as the deadline for 2012 first round funding consideration for the Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program and Wetland Reserve Program.

The Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program (FRPP) is a voluntary easement program that helps farmers and ranchers keep their land in agricultural production. The program provides matching funds to state or local governments and nongovernmental organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase conservation easements. Interested landowners must work with a local entity to apply. These permanent easements protect agricultural land, and important farmland soils, by prohibiting conversion to non-agricultural uses.

The Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP) provides an opportunity for landowners to receive financial assistance to protect, restore and enhance wetlands on their property. WRP helps to reduce flooding, improve water quality by filtering sediment and chemicals, recharge groundwater and more. In addition, these wetlands provide food and shelter for migratory birds and other wetland dependent species.

WRP offers landowners a combination of permanent or 30-year easements, in addition to 10-year restoration agreements, in exchange for retiring and restoring drained woodland and marginal land from agriculture. In 2012, landowners may receive up to $8,170 per acre for permanent easements. For 30-year easements, applicants can receive 75 percent of the permanent easement value.

For FRPP and WRP, USDA pays all costs associated with recording the easement in the local land records office. Landowners voluntarily limit future use of the land, yet retain private ownership.

While NRCS accepts easement program applications throughout the year, the agency plans to make 2012 funding decisions from the pool of applications received by Feb. 10 first. Subsequent ranking periods will occur until all funds are exhausted. Unfunded eligible applicants will remain on file until additional funding becomes available.

To participate in WRP, private landowners may submit applications directly to NRCS. For FRPP, state and local governments or nongovernmental organizations should submit applications directly to the NRCS State Office. Interested landowners are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for more information. Service Center locations and more information on the programs can be found at www.md.nrcs.usda.gov.

NRCS's natural resources conservation programs help people reduce soil erosion, enhance water supplies, improve water quality, increase wildlife habitat, and reduce damages caused by floods and other natural disasters. Public benefits include enhanced natural resources that help sustain agricultural productivity and environmental quality while supporting continued economic development, recreation, and scenic beauty.

Conservation Programs Deadline Approaching

$14 million Available in Conservation Funding for Maryland Farmers

Annapolis, Md., January 11, 2012– An important deadline is coming up for farmers, forest, and agricultural landowners who want to sign up for Fiscal Year 2012 Farm Bill Conservation programs. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland has set the deadline for the initial round of program funding consideration as Friday, February 17, 2012. This deadline includes the Maryland Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative (CBWI).

EQIP is a voluntary conservation program that supports production agriculture and environmental quality as compatible goals. Through EQIP, agricultural producers receive financial and technical assistance to implement projects that will improve their natural resources. CBWI is a part of EQIP, and provides technical and financial help to producers to minimize excess nutrients and sediments in order to restore, preserve, and protect the Chesapeake Bay.

The deadline for NRCS’s National Initiatives (EQIP Organic, Seasonal High Tunnel, and On-Farm Energy) remains February 3, 2012. Through these initiatives NRCS seeks to help producers who are certified organic growers or working to achieve organic certification install conservation practices for organic production, help eligible producers plan and implement high tunnels, and help producers to develop farm energy audits that assess energy consumption on an operation, and develop energy conservation recommendations.

Applications for NRCS programs can be submitted throughout the year, but those received after the deadline will be held until the next cut-off date.

In Fiscal Year 2011, Maryland NRCS obligated over $18 million in EQIP and CBWI funds statewide. However, the number of applications received far exceeded the amount of funding available. Agricultural and forest landowners are encouraged to apply immediately to ensure consideration for this funding cycle.

For additional information, landowners are encouraged to contact their local NRCS Service Center. Service Center locations and more information on the programs can be found at www.md.nrcs.usda.gov.

Conservation Innovation Grant Pre-proposals Due January 31

For fiscal year 2012, NRCS is offering a national Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) funding opportunity focus in the following areas: Nutrient Management, Energy Conservation, Soil Health, Wildlife, and CIG Projects Assessment. The deadline to submit pre-proposal applications is January 31, 2012. Pre-proposals should support large-scale demonstration projects that test and prove original approaches to conserving America’s private lands. See below or attached for more details.

To view the complete Announcement of Program Funding, visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cig/.

To apply electronically, visit http://www.grants.gov/.

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Announces Sign-Up Period for Conservation Stewardship Program

Annapolis, Md., December 12, 2011 – USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced that the ranking period cut-off date for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is January 13, 2012. Maryland producers interested in CSP should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline so that their applications can be considered during the first ranking period of 2012.

“CSP is one of our most popular conservation programs, and we expect to receive many applications,” NRCS Chief Dave White said. “I encourage all farmers and ranchers who are interested in applying to contact their local NRCS office as soon as possible so they can meet the deadline.”

CSP is offered in Maryland through continuous sign-ups. The program provides many conservation benefits including improvement of water and soil quality, wildlife habit enhancements and adoption of conservation activities that address the effects of climate change. Eligible lands include cropland, pastureland, rangeland, nonindustrial private forest land and agricultural land under the jurisdiction of an Indian tribe.

A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help potential applicants determine if CSP is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, contract obligations and potential payments. It is available from local NRCS offices and on the CSP Web page.

As part of the CSP application process, applicants will work with NRCS field personnel to complete the resource inventory using a Conservation Measurement Tool (CMT). The CMT determines the conservation performance for existing and new conservation activities. The applicant’s conservation performance will be used to determine eligibility, ranking and payments.

In 2010 alone, nearly 21,000 applicants enrolled in CSP, putting additional conservation on 25.2 million acres, about the size of the state of Kentucky, to improve water and soil quality, enhance wildlife habitat and address the effects of climate change.

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack and Assistant Attorney General West Announce Process to Resolve Discrimination Claims of Hispanic and Women Farmers En Español (PDF)

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2011 – As part of continued efforts to close the chapter on allegations that discrimination occurred at USDA in past decades, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Assistant Attorney General Tony West today announced the establishment of a process to resolve the claims of Hispanic and women farmers and ranchers who assert that they were discriminated against when seeking USDA farm loans.

News Release (February 25, 2011)
News Release en Espanol (February 25, 2011
Women and Hispanic Claims Program

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