EQIP Options for Emergency Animal Mortality

Coronavirus and USDA Assistance for Farmers

We are committed to delivering USDA services to America’s farmers and ranchers while taking safety measures in response to COVID-19. While employees continue to staff our Service Centers, they are only available for phone appointments at this time. While access is restricted to the buildings, our services are still available via phone appointment or online. Learn more at farmers.gov/coronavirus.

Emergency Livestock Mortality Assistance Available

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering financial and technical assistance to livestock producers for animal mortality disposal, resulting from impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Indiana NRCS Emergency Livestock Mortality Assistance Factsheet (PDF; 506 KB)
• Emergency Animal Mortality Management - Conservation Practice 368 Standard

How to Apply

Producers facing livestock depopulation are encouraged to file the attached Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) application (Form CCC-1200) with their local NRCS field office. Applications are being accepted now.

Through EQIP, a producer can apply for a practice called Emergency Animal Mortality Management and other practices to properly dispose of carcasses. Across the nation, NRCS will offer consistent options for farmers to find the right alternatives for their needs.

The producer is responsible for the proper disposal of animal mortality by following requirements specific to each option. All Federal, State and Local laws must be followed and are the responsibility of the producer to secure any necessary permits.

Plans and permits may be required for each option through the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) and others as needed.

Eligibility

Agricultural producers and owners of nonindustrial private forestland and Tribes are eligible to apply for EQIP. Eligible land includes cropland, pastureland, nonindustrial private forestland and other farm or pasture lands.

For eligibility requirements, an application and approved early start waiver must be filed with your local NRCS office. NOTE: Participants must request an early start waiver in writing (e-mail, note, letter, etc.).

Additional Program Information

• To receive assistance, producers must have both an application and an approved early start waiver filed at the local NRCS office prior to disposal of animal carcasses. All NRCS standards must be followed, and NRCS will provide the technical assistance needed
• Financial assistance is limited and all applications may not be funded.
• Nationally-established payment caps may apply.
• Historically Underserved (HU) producers, including socially disadvantaged, beginning and limited resource farmers, Indian tribes and beginning farmers/veterans are eligible for an increased payment rate.

Other Resources Available

• Indiana Board of Animal Health
• USDA Carcass Management Dashboard
• Purdue Extension COVID-19 Response Page
• Indiana Pork COVID-19 Resources for Indiana Livestock Producers
• National Pork Board Covid-19 Resources for Producers & Industry
• National Pork Board Toolbox for Reduced Market Access
• Farm Crisis Operations Planning Tool (National Pork Board)
• Packing Plants Status Map (Developed by Drovers' for National status of packing facilities)
• CDC Guidance for Meat and Poultry Processing Workers and Employers
• American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV)