Developing an EQIP Contract

Applicants who rank high enough to be selected for plan development and contracting must have a schedule of operations developed. This schedule of operations will outline the practices that will be included on the contract, and include a schedule for implementing practices.

Practices started or completed prior to program application are not eligible for cost share or incentive payments.

Practices started before the contract is approved by NRCS will cause the applicant to be ineligible for EQIP financial assistance for that practice unless a waiver has been granted by NRCS.

A financially assisted practice must be started within 12 months of contract approval. Once begun, the producer is expected to make continuous progress towards implementation. Failure to commence a practice within 12 months of contract approval will result in contract termination unless circumstances beyond the producer's control prevented the start of the practice.

Any EQIP contract that includes an animal waste storage or treatment facility will require the development and implementation of a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP).

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