Farm Bill 2002
Environmental Quality
Incentives Program in Nevada
Overview
The Environmental Quality Incentives Program
(EQIP) is a voluntary program that provides
assistance to farmers and ranchers who face
threats to soil, water, air, and related natural
resources on their land. The Natural Resources
Conservation Service (NRCS) provides assistance
to agricultural producers to promote agricultural
production and environmental quality as
compatible goals, optimize environmental
benefits, and help farmers and ranchers meet
Federal, State, Tribal, and local environmental
requirements. EQIP is reauthorized in the Farm
Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Farm
Bill). Funding for EQIP comes from the
Commodity Credit Corporation.
How EQIP Works Nevada
The objective of EQIP in Nevada is to optimize
environmental benefits on agricultural land in
Nevada. Eligible land in Nevada is defined as
cropland, hayland, rangeland, grassland, pasture
land, private non-industrial forestland, and other
lands that poses a serious threat to soil, air, water,
or related resources. In addition, the land must
meet Nevada’s definition of an irrigated crop
(annually tilled crop, alfalfa); other multi-year
grasses and legumes in rotation, orchards, or
vineyards; native hay or pasture which is
currently being grown following locally accepted
cultural and management practices, or land on
which livestock is currently being produced and
the production involves the growing or raising of
crops for human consumption; or for growing,
raising, breeding, or reproduction of livestock
which will be used for food or fiber (livestock
products).
In order for irrigated land to be eligible for the
program, it must be irrigated 2 out of the last 5
years.
An Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Natural Resources Conservation Service
United States Department of Agriculture
Nevada has established both statewide and local
priorities for funding purposes. The following
national concerns will be addressed statewide in
Nevada:
• Animal feeding operation