A new initiative in Mississippi aims to encourage ranchers of ruminant animals like sheep and goats to make conservation improvements to their operations. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering financial and technical assistance through the Small Ruminant Farmer Initiative to help these ranchers enhance their lands while cleaning and conserving water and improving soil.
This initiative was created to help meet the need of a growing commodity in Mississippi. Part of NRCS’ Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), this initiative offers about $500,000 to Mississippi landowners. April 19 is the deadline for applications.
Assistance through this initiative will help ranchers install a variety of conservation practices that aim to boost water quality and quantity and increase soil health. Practices include fencing, ponds and heavy use protection areas.

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