Idaho's snowpacks range from fair to poor according to snow survey data collected last week by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.  The poor snowpacks across the state can be attributed to November, December and January's minimal precipitation.

Idaho agricultural producers and landowners interested in protecting or improving natural resources on their land may benefit from a visit to their local USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) office.  Applications for several Farm Bill programs are due by February 12 to qualify for conservation financial assistance in 2010.

The Farm and Ranchland Reserve Program helps farmers and ranchers preserve their agricultural land through permanent conservation easements.  The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) administers this Farm Bill program which provides matching funds to purchase the easements.