HARRISBURG, Pa. — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service now has funding available through the Agricultural Management Assistance program to help Pennsylvania farmers install high tunnel systems.
Authorized under the 2014 Farm Bill, AMA helps agricultural producers use conservation to manage risk and solve natural resource issues through natural resources conservation. NRCS is currently offering high tunnel systems and associated practices, such as irrigation and erosion control, through AMA.
High tunnel systems provide many benefits. They can extend the growing season, improve plant and soil quality, improve air quality and reduce energy use. Producers are encouraged to sign up for financial assistance by the application deadline date of April 21.
Applications will be ranked, with the highest priority given to urban areas, medium priority for suburban areas, and other areas will be given the lowest priority.
Eligible producers who sign up for the program may receive an incentive payment based on the statewide average cost for installing planned conservation practices. Socially disadvantaged, limited resource and beginning farmers are eligible for a higher payment rate.
A conservation plan must be completed before an application can be considered for funding, so farmers are encouraged to call or stop by their local NRCS field office as soon as possible. USDA Service Center locations are listed on-line at offices.usda.gov or in the phone book under Federal Government, U.S. Department of Agriculture. General program information is available on the Pennsylvania NRCS website at www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov.
If you are interested in Farm Bill programs, contact your local NRCS office to identify and plan the conservation measures you would like to implement on your land. NRCS staff will help you develop a plan, identify recommended practices, and pursue funding through one of the many Farm Bill program options available.
— USDA