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USDA ANNOUNCES 2005 CONSERVATION SECURITY PROGRAM CONTRACTS
Several Conservation-Minded Farmers in New York Selected to Receive Funds
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Syracuse, New York, July 25, 2005 - Joe DelVecchio, NRCS State Conservationist in New York, echoed Agriculture Deputy Secretary Chuck Conner's announcement today that USDA will offer 12,700 Conservation Security Program (CSP) contracts across the nation. These contracts come from $202 million allocated to CSP in 2005.
In New York, 77 contracts worth more than $1 million will be awarded to outstanding conservation-minded producers from five select watersheds in the state.
CSP is a voluntary program that rewards producers involved in conservation stewardship of agricultural working lands and who enhance the condition of America's natural resources. In New York, approximately 250 producers sought information on the program and about 200 attended workshops to learn how to sign up. In all, 84 producers enrolled in the program and 77 were awarded contracts.
"I am pleased to announce this kind of incentive that rewards New York producers for the conservation work they have already done," DelVecchio said. "CSP participants are conservation innovators, and what they do today will lead to additional environmental benefits as they share their knowledge of conservation with others."
CSP applicants will participate in the program on three different tiers reflecting both their documented historical conservation management as well as their agreement to do additional practices to further enhance the environment. Tier III recognizes the highest level of conservation. In New York, 12 applications were at Tier 1, 22 at Tier II, and 43 at Tier III. DelVecchio commended all New York applicants who demonstrated a family history and devotion to conservation.
"This program was created to reward and recognize the long-term action and commitment of conservationists and stewards alike," DelVecchio said. "All successful applicants have achieved high technical standards for protecting soil and water quality."
For more information on CSP and other NRCS programs go to the following web site: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs, or call 315-477-6524.
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