NRCS Is Accepting WHIP Applications

Auburn, Ala. June 3, 2008

USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Gary Kobylski announced a sign-up for the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP). The sign-up is open in all Alabama counties with this batching period to end on June 20, 2008.

This program provides both technical assistance and financial assistance based on a practice payment schedule to individuals interested in establishing and improving fish and wildlife habitat primarily on private land. NRCS will work with participants to develop a wildlife habitat development plan which becomes the basis of the cost-share agreement.

The agreement generally will last from 5 to 10 years from the date the agreement is signed. Conservation minded landowners are encouraged to participate.