State conservationist Ann English announced two prioritized funding sign up deadlines for priority assistance from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

The two deadlines are Oct. 19 and Feb. 15.

NRCS provides financial and technical assistance to help eligible South Carolina landowners address natural resource concerns, promote environmental quality and protect wildlife through EQIP.

This program helps farmers improve production while protecting environmental quality by addressing such concerns as soil erosion and productivity, grazing management, water quality, animal waste and forestry concerns.

EQIP also assists eligible small-scale farmers who have historically not participated in or ranked high enough to be funded in previous program sign ups.

There is a continuous sign up for this program; however, to increase your chances of funding, apply by the two deadlines.

Producers interested in applying should visit their local USDA Service Center as soon as possible to prepare their applications.

Visit www.sc.nrcs.usda.gov for more information, including eligibility requirements.

USDA NRCS is an equal opportunity employer and provider.