USDA Targets Funds in California to Help Producers Complete Infrastructure Repairs Along Southern Border

DAVIS, Calif., February 25, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is helping farmers and ranchers along the southern border address damages to fields and farming infrastructure, including internal fencing and water structures.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing $500,000 to help affected producers in California. This is a coordinated effort to assist farmers and ranchers along the borders of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

“We understand that the field and farming infrastructure damage along the border is costly and has a negative impact on our natural resources that our farmers and ranchers work hard to conserve,” said Carlos Suarez, NRCS State Conservationist in California. “Our field offices are ready to assist eligible producers with technical and financial assistance.”

Eligible counties in California include Imperial and San Diego. Enrollment opens February 25, 2022, and runs through April 1, 2022. To allow producers to quickly access these funds, NRCS is allowing requests for early start waivers and a shorter enrollment period. Those interested in an early start waiver should consult with the local office to submit a written request.

Funding is available through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), which provides competitive financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits.

Eligible producers can use the funds to implement 28 eligible practices including: internal cross fencing, watering facilities, range planting, livestock pipeline, trails/walkways, and more.

More Information
To apply for EQIP assistance, producers should contact their local USDA Service Center in Escondido or Imperial, California.      

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