By 1812Blockhouse
Richland Soil and Water Conservation District (Richland SWCD) is collaborating with the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District (MWCD) to support local producers through the 2024 Cover Crop Cost Share Program. This initiative aims to promote the planting of cover crops, which offer numerous agricultural and environmental benefits.
Benefits of Cover Crops
In 2023, the MWCD Cover Crop Cost Share Program contributed to the planting of cover crops on 140.73 acres of Richland County farmland. Cover crops are essential for:
- Preventing and Reducing Erosion: By protecting the soil from wind and water erosion.
- Improving Soil Health: Enhancing soil structure, fertility, and biological activity.
- Increasing Crop Productivity: Providing nutrients and improving soil conditions for subsequent crops.
- Boosting Farm Profitability: Reducing the need for fertilizers and improving crop yields.
Key Details of the Program
The program offers significant financial assistance to encourage the adoption of cover crops:
- Cost Share Rate: $12.00 per acre.
- Acreage Cap: The general cap is 200 acres per participant. However, this cap does not apply to acres planted in the Charles Mill or Pleasant Hill Lake watersheds.
- Multi-County Participation: The 200-acre cap applies if the landowner signs up in multiple counties.
- Funding Exclusivity: This program cannot be combined with other funding programs like USDA-NRCS Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) or H2Ohio for the same cover crop.
- Seeding Dates and Rates: Compliance with USDA-NRCS seeding dates and rates is mandatory. If a mix is planted, the earliest seeding date of any species in the mix is the required planting date.
- Wheat Inclusion: Wheat can be included and harvested.
Application Process
Applications are due by July 9, 2024. Interested producers can access the application and agreement form here.
Assessment Area
For a detailed view of the MWCD assessment area in Richland County, refer to the assessment boundary map.
How to Apply
To apply for the MWCD 2024 Cover Crop Cost Share Program, fill out the application form and submit it by the deadline. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing your application.
Image by Khoa Tran Anh from Pixabay
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