03/22/05 Idaho watersheds eligible for CSP signup

Idaho's best conservation stewards in selected watersheds throughout the state now have the opportunity to sign-up for USDA's new Conservation Security Program (CSP). Signups run from March 28 through May 27th. CSP is a voluntary program that supports ongoing stewardship of private, agricultural working lands and rewards those producers who are meeting the highest standards of conservation and environmental management on their operations. Selected watersheds in Idaho include: Moyie, Lower Kootenai, South Fork and Middle Fork Clearwater, Lochsa, Lower and Upper Selway, Middle Salmon-Chamberlain, Little Salmon, Lower Salmon, Hells Canyon, North Fork Payette, C.J. Strike Reservoir, Big Lost, Upper and Lower Henrys. Nationally, producers in the 18 pioneer watersheds from the 2004 sign-up will also be included. The Lemhi Watershed in Idaho was one of these original 18. Producers who have a current CSP contract are not eligible. A lot of people don't know much about CSP. Who is eligible? How do they apply? What are the benefits and requirements? NRCS service centers will be holding CSP informational meetings across the state. Producers who operate more than 50 percent of their land in a selected watershed should plan to attend for more details about CSP and producer eligibility. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott