The United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NCRS) announced funding is available through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for those impacted by Oregon’s recent wildfires. Application deadlines are October 30, 2020 and December 30, 2020.

Through EQIP, Oregon Wildfire Emergency Stabilization funding will support the immediate response to the recent catastrophic fires by addressing degraded plant conditions, wind and water erosion, and loss of sediment, nutrient, and pathogens.

“Rapid response is key after a high intensity wildfire,” said NRCS Oregon’s Acting State Conservationist Jason Jeans. “This emergency funding allows us to quickly support landowners impacted by recent wildfires and address immediate resource needs.”

Funding through EQIP’s Wildfire Emergency Stabilization is spilt into two pools: Eastern Oregon and Western Oregon. Both funding pools have phased application deadlines with the application cut-offs on October 30 and December 30. Applicants can apply for funding through Farmers.gov.

Follow the links below to learn more about the two funding pools:

About the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)

EQIP provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural and forestry producers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits such as improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, reduced soil erosion and sedimentation, and improved or created wildlife habitat. Click here to learn more.

For additional information about EQIP, contact your local service center. USDA Service Centers are open for business by phone appointment only and field work will continue with appropriate social distancing. While program delivery staff will continue to come into the office, they will be working with producers by phone, and using online tools whenever possible. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with NRCS, Farm Service Agency, or any other Service Center agency are required to call their Service Center to schedule a phone appointment. Click here to learn more.

Contributed by: Mary Beth Smith | USDA