Farm Service Agency to take applications for Emergency Conservation Program

The Farm Service Agency will begin taking Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) applications on Monday October 15. Some of the qualifying practices include but is not limited to:

Storage facilities, including tanks and troughs that are needed to supply water for immediate needs of livestock. This includes portable or permanent holding tanks and troughs.

Constructing and deepening wells for livestock water

Developing springs or seeps for livestock water

Contractor costs for hauling water to livestock

Installing pumps in an existing water source

If qualified, the plan will reimburse up to 75% of eligible costs for temporary practices, and up to 50% of eligible costs for permanent practices. If a practice is approved it would provide emergency water for livestock or farming. Application deadline is December 14, 2007.

To apply or for any questions regarding ECP please contact your local FSA office located at 225 Valley River Avenue Suite J in Murphy NC. Telephone (828) 837-2721 Ext. 2 or Graham County producers may call 479-4108 Ext 2.

The United States Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs and marital or family status (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs). Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication of program information (Braille, large print, audio tape, etc.) should contact the USDA, Office of Communications at 202-720-5881 (TDD).

To file a complaint write the Secretary of Agriculture, US Department of Agriculture, Washington DC 20250 or call 202 720-1127 (TDD). USDA us an equal opportunity employer.