NRCS Connects Farmers and Ranchers to Online Drought, Crop, and Plant Data

WASHINGTON, June 25, 2001--Farmers and ranchers have new information available online from USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service to help them prepare for drought, better understand crop nutrition, choose crops for small-scale farming, and select plants for use in conservation practices.

"This information will assist them with making informed, science-based decisions on how to keep their operations productive and plan for the future," said Pearlie S. Reed, Chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Defending Against Drought presents information about drought conditions across the nation, animated maps, and ideas on how to prepare for drought conditions and get the most use from low water supplies.

NRCS' PLANTS web site now has three new web pages of particular interest to farmers and ranchers. The Crop Nutrient Tool helps farmers estimate how much nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will be removed from soil when crops are harvested. The Alternative Crop Module features information about crops suitable for small-scale farming and for farms with limited resources. A section with guides and fact sheets about conservation activities, plants of cultural interest to American Indians, livestock forage, and landscaping also is available.

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is the primary federal agency that works with private landowners to help them protect their natural resources. Further information on USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service can be obtained at http://www.nrcs.usda.gov.

#

< Back to News Releases