The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has set aside $15 million in financial assistance through the 2025 EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program) Hurricane Helene Assistance program to support agricultural operations in western North Carolina, including Alexander County.
The program provides aid for all EQIP practices that benefit cropland, pastureland, and forestry management. Producers must meet both participant and land eligibility requirements to qualify.
Applications can be submitted to a regional NRCS field office or via email. A waiver can also be requested if conservation practices need to be implemented before the application is processed (obtaining a waiver does not guarantee that the applicant will be awarded a contract).
The application deadline is January 10, 2025.
For more information or to apply, please contact Julius George at 919-873-2104 or julius.george@usda.gov.