NRCS Announces EQIP-CIC Sign-Up for Fiscal Year 2023

TEMPLE, Texas, Nov. 22, 2022 — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Texas is announcing the Fiscal Year 2023 funding signup for Conservation Incentive Contracts (CIC), a new option available through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP).

EQIP-CIC expands resource benefits for Texas producers through incentive conservation practices such as wildlife management, cover crops, nutrient management, conservation crop rotations, and prescribed grazing. Additionally, EQIP-CIC allows producers to target priority resource concerns on their property by offering incentive payments for a five-year contract without needing to enroll the entire operation into the program. EQIP-CIC is designed to be a stepping-stone between EQIP and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), to help producers improve their level of conservation and earn benefits of longer-term conservation enhancements.

While applications for EQIP are accepted throughout the year, interested producers should submit applications to their local NRCS office by Jan. 6, 2023, to be considered for the 2023 ranking funding period.

Texas NRCS will offer funding through two separate initiatives. A Piney Woods Restoration Initiative is available for applicants in East Texas to help restore declining Piney Woods Habitat. A Climate Smart Agriculture and Wildlife Initiative available statewide prioritizing applications that address wildlife habitat and climate smart agriculture practices as well as addressing resource concerns on expired Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) lands. Individuals interested in applying for the EQIP-CIC should contact their local NRCS conservationist as soon as possible.

Visit the Texas NRCS website for more details about EQIP or other technical and financial assistance available through NRCS conservation programs or contact your local USDA Service Center.