USDA Extends Sign-up for Conservation Security Program

May 8, 2008 –Agricultural producers in the Kennebec River at Merrymeeting Bay (Lower Kennebec) Watershed will have two additional weeks to apply for the Conservation Security Program (CSP). USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Joyce Swartzendruber has announced that the sign-up now ends on May 30, 2008. Originally the sign-up was scheduled to end on May 16, 2008.

"NRCS Chief Arlen Lancaster recognized the inopportune timing of this year’s sign-up and that farmers are busy in their fields," said Swartzendruber. "He wanted to give them as much time as possible, so he extended the sign-up to allow producers adequate time to gather natural resource information and complete the required self-assessment and applicant interview."

CSP, a voluntary program, encourages and rewards producers who practice outstanding stewardship on working agricultural land by offering financial incentives that increase with the level of conservation effort. Soil and water quality are the primary focus of this program; however, program goals also include improved wildlife habitat, air quality, and environmentally responsible energy production.

The Lower Kennebec Watershed, selected as one of the 51 eligible watersheds nationwide for this year’s CSP signup, is primarily in the counties of Franklin, Kennebec and Somerset, but also includes portions of Androscoggin, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Waldo, Penobscot and Piscataquis counties.

For more information contact your local NRCS office or go to www.me.nrcs.usda.gov.