The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) announced late last week that the sign-up deadline for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) has been extended to Friday.
After the CRP general sign-up ends Friday, FSA will evaluate offers based on cost and the Environmental Benefits Index (EBI). The EBI takes into consideration variables such as wildlife habitat, water quality protection, soil erosion reduction, air quality protection and other enduring benefits. Accepted offers will become effective Oct. 1.
Producers with expiring contracts and producers with environmentally sensitive land are encouraged to evaluate their options under CRP.
Producers are urged to contact their local FSA service center in Salem at 988-2180 or visit FSA’s website at fsa.usda.gov for additional information regarding CRP.
