EAST LANSING – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is announcing what is likely the final opportunity for Michigan farmers to receive 2017 conservation funds. Funding remains for several 2017 conservation initiatives and farmers have until June 16 to submit their applications.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has remaining 2017 funds for conservation financial assistance in the Western Lake Erie Basin, the St. Joseph River Watershed, the National Water Quality Initiative in parts of Clinton and Calhoun counties, statewide funding for honey bee pollinator habitat, and funds for improving wildlife habitat and controlling invasive species in selected watersheds through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. Agricultural producers and private forest owners should contact their local USDA Service Center as soon as possible to begin the application process.

USDA conservation financial assistance helps farmers with the cost of implementing a variety of conservation practices proven to reduce soil erosion, protect water quality, improve soil health, and provide quality habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. Examples of practices eligible for financial assistance include cover crops, nutrient management plans, conservation tillage practices, filter strips, grassed waterways, and drainage water management. Financial assistance is only provided for implementing new practices, not for practices already in use.

Funding for honey bee pollinator habitat is available anywhere in Michigan while other funds are available in designated watersheds. To find out if your land is eligible for conservation assistance contact your local USDA Service Center or go to http://www.mi.nrcs.usda.gov.   back...