Area farmers are being reminded to check with FSA about highly erodible land being used to produce crops

High grain prices have caused some farmers to begin planting on land that previous had not been planted.  In some cases, this has included clearing trees to create new pasture and taking property out of the Conservation Reserve Program.

Winneshiek County Farm Service Agency officials are reminding area farmers that they need to have these areas reviewed to ensure any work will not jeopardize eligibility for farm benefits now or in the future. 

In order to receive payments from the USDA, compliance with Highly Erodible Land (HEL) and Wetland Conservation (WC) provisions are required.  

Farmers with HEL determined soils are reminded to follow tillage, crop residue, and rotation requirements as specified in their conservation systems.  Producers should notify FSA prior to conducting land clearing or drainage projects to insure compliance.

Farmers who produce an agricultural commodity on a field where there is a lot of highly erodible are ineligible for benefits under the Highly Erodible Land Provisions--unless is have been determined by NRCS that a conservation system is being actively applied.  This conservation system must be adequate for highly erodible land and will be based on the local NRCS technical guide.