Lee, Ogle growers could be eligible for conservation funding

CHAMPAIGN – Growers in Lee and Ogle counties are eligible to apply for funding through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program, the state’s conservationist announced. The deadline is March 4.

Ivan Dozier said the United States Natural Resources Conservation Service will offer funding for the Working Lands, Water and Wildlife Partnership Project in Illinois.

The NRCS is working with the Conservation Fund to help producers address resource concerns of inadequate habitat for wildlife, water quality and the longterm protection of farmland.

Landowners can apply to start such agricultural and conservation practices as silvopasture establishment, tree and shrub establishment and cover drops.

Farmers making the transition to organic farming, orchards or berry crops can also receive rental payments.

Entity-held easements intended to preserve farmland also qualify.

The others counties, besides Lee and Ogle, being considered are Boone, Cass, Champaign, DeKalb, Ford, Iroquois, Jackson, Jo Daviess, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, La Salle, Madison, Mason, McHenry, McLean, Perry, Peoria, Piatt, Tazewell, Vermilion, Will, Winnebago and Woodford.

Signed application form NRCS-CPA-1200 can be submitted to a NRCS field office or through its website at www.farmers.gov.