USDA Seeks Input on Conservation Practice Standards

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking public comment on its conservation practice standards to help improve the nation's delivery of conservation programs. The public comment period is open until Aug. 11.

The 2008 Farm Bill maintains a strong commitment to locally led, voluntary conservation programs, and the successful delivery and participation in these programs hinges on robust local input and involvement in the rule making process. Through the public comment process, stakeholders, including agricultural producers, private landowners and the general public, are able to include their input and priorities in the delivery of conservation programs.

NRCS conservation practices are diverse and very flexible and as such can be applied on many land uses. The public review of conservation delivery standards will ensure that conservation programs of the 2008 Farm Bill are relevant to local agricultural, forestry and natural resource needs including specialty crops like organics, native and managed pollinators, bioenergy crop production and forestry.

Directions for submitting comments are available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-13870.pdf.

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