By Scout Nelson
The 2024 enrollment period for the Farmers for Soil Health (FSH) initiative is set to close on February 28. This program, driven by a coalition including the Soy Checkoff, Pork Checkoff, and National Corn Growers Association, aims to significantly boost the use of cover crops across the United States to 30 million acres by 2030.
FSH offers unique flexibility for participating farmers by allowing them to enroll either before or after planting cover crops. This approach accommodates farmers' varying schedules and strategic needs, according to Rutendo Nyamusamba, an NDSU Extension conservation agronomist. “Farmers can manage their time and operations more effectively with this enrollment flexibility,” Nyamusamba stated.
Participating in the FSH program provides substantial financial benefits. Farmers initiating cover crop practices can receive Transition Incentive Payments (TIPs) that total $50 per acre over three years. The payment structure is set as $25 for the first year, $15 for the second, and $10 for the third. Additionally, Signing Incentive Payments (SIPs) of $2 per acre are available for fields that are already using cover crops.
Eligibility for these incentives is straightforward. Fields planted with cover crops for the first time in 2024 qualify for TIPs. Fields that continue cover cropping practices from the previous year are eligible for SIPs. Furthermore, these incentives can be combined with other programs, provided they cover different practices.
FSH is committed to supporting farmers through the initial challenges of establishing cover crops. Nyamusamba encourages farmers not to be deterred by potential setbacks in crop establishment, highlighting that even less successful starts can yield benefits. This support underscores the program’s goal to facilitate a smooth transition into sustainable farming practices.
Farmers interested in enhancing their soil health and operational sustainability through cover crops are encouraged to contact the Nebraska Corn Board before the February deadline to take advantage of this impactful program.
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Categories: North Dakota, General