FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 26, 2002
SC Livestock Producers Eligible for CRP Riparian Buffers
COLUMBIA---The South Carolina USDA Farm Service Agency announces that livestock producers may be eligible for riparian buffers under the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).
A riparian buffer for marginal pastureland purposes is a strip of trees planted next to a permanent or seasonal stream corridor or other waterbodies of a permanent nature that discharge water off the farm. The purpose of the riparian buffer is to remove nutrients, sediment, and other pollutants from surface runoff.
Marginal pastureland that is located next to a permanent or seasonal stream corridor or other permanent waterbodies may be eligible under the Continuous CRP Signup.
Producers who are approved CRP contracts for riparian buffers will receive an annual rental payment for the approved acreage for a 10 to 15 year period. In addition, cost-share assistance is available for establishing the trees, required fencing, water facilities and drilling wells if needed for alternate livestock water. Approved CRP contracts for riparian buffers will receive a signup bonus of $100 to $150 an acre and a practice incentive bonus.
For more Information, livestock producers should immediately contact the local USDA Service Center.