NEWS

BOISE, Idaho, March 12, 2007 –State Conservationist Richard Sims of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) today announced alternatives are available for farmers affected by Idaho’s recent ban against field burning. 

The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeal’s ruled that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency inappropriately approved the state’s field burning rules. As a result, the state of Idaho banned producers from burning crop residue on all agricultural fields, excluding Indian reservations.    

“We know that farmers are making some decisions about planting as a result of the burning ban; so now is an opportune time to contact your local NRCS office to discuss conservation options,” said Sims. “We can help with compliance plan updates, and provide guidance with tillage or rotation alternatives to help producers manage their operation.”

Farmers who have Conservation Security Program (CSP) contracts are encouraged to check with their local NRCS office if they plan to make changes to tillage and/or rotations due to the court’s ruling.  Participants can implement alternatives that will allow them to meet the CSP requirements and remain in the program.  Contracts are in the following watersheds: Lower Bear (Malad), Lower Kootenai, Upper Henrys, Lower Henrys, Big Lost, C.J. Strike Reservoir, North Fork Payette, Rock, Lemhi, Lower Salmon, Little Salmon, Middle Fork Clearwater, South Fork Clearwater and Clearwater.  

“While burning agricultural residue may have been more traditional in Idaho, we can help growers find alternatives to sustain their natural resources.  Preserving the resource base is the single most important thing anyone can do for long-term viability,” said Sims.

NRCS offers financial assistance through natural resources conservation programs to help people reduce soil erosion, enhance water supplies, improve water quality and increase wildlife habitat, among other benefits. NRCS provides conservation technical assistance to decision makers to assist them to comply with Federal, State, tribal, and local environmental regulations and related requirements, and to prepare them to become eligible to participate in other Federal, State, and local conservation programs. 

For more information, contact your local NRCS field office. Visit www.id.nrcs.usda.gov to find an office near you.