Acting State Conservationist John Wilson announced the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications for the National Water Quality Initiative. The goal of this initiative is to improve water quality in three impaired watersheds located in eastern Nebraska. Interested participants have until Nov. 19, 2021, to apply.
The selected watersheds are:
- Bazile Creek – located in Antelope, Pierce, and Knox counties
- Big Sandy – located in Thayer and Fillmore Counties
- Turkey Creek – located in Saline County (small portions in Jefferson and Gage counties)
Wilson said, “Including these watersheds in the National Water Quality Initiative will strengthen the overall effort to improve water quality in impaired streams in Nebraska. Through this initiative, eligible producers in these watersheds will invest in voluntary conservation practices to help provide cleaner water for their neighbors and communities.”
NRCS will provide funding and expertise to farmers and ranchers interested in installing conservation practices such as cover crops, filter strips, terraces, no-till, and other erosion control practices to improve water quality. NRCS staff will work with individual landowners to develop a conservation plan to apply practices that work best for their farming operation in each watershed.
Individuals interested in applying for conservation funds may do so at any time, but applications need to be submitted by Nov. 19 to be considered for this year’s funding.
