In California, Iowa, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Texas, the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering financial assistance to agricultural producers through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) Migratory Bird Resurgence Initiative (MBRI). The NRCS is investing nearly $11 million in this initiative to support farmers in protecting and improving natural resources and creating habitat for migratory birds and other avian species in targeted areas.
In Arkansas, the MBRI will receive up to $4 million in financial assistance in fiscal year 2024. State Conservationist Mike Sullivan emphasized the importance of creating habitat on private lands for migratory bird populations and enhancing climate resiliency and carbon stewardship on working lands. This initiative aims to provide more nesting, food, and resting areas for migratory birds to improve habitat for wildlife and promote natural resource conservation.
Agricultural producers interested in receiving financial assistance should submit their applications by May 17, 2024. While EQIP financial assistance applications are accepted year-round, specific program deadlines are in place for ranking and funding opportunities within each state.