A new USDA initiative is committed to improving one to seven impaired watersheds in every U.S. state and territory. The launch of the National Water Quality Initiative was announced by Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack Tuesday. He says it signifies a bold step by USDA to improve water quality in very challenging watersheds. Vilsack adds that it provides American farmers – who are good stewards of the environment – with additional tools to protect and improve fish and wildlife habitat and water quality. This year – USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service will make at least 33-million dollars in financial assistance available to farmers, ranchers and forest landowners this year through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. NRCS will provide financial and technical assistance to producers for implementing conservation practices such as cover crops, nutrient management, filter strips and terraces.

To be considered for this fiscal year’s funding opportunity – eligible applications must be submitted by June 15th. To determine whether they are located in a selected watershed – producers can view an online map available on the NRCS website or by checking with their local NRCS office. Applicants will be notified of the results of the competitive selection process this summer.