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Conservation Reserves Enhancement Program
This time of year provides a good opportunity for producers to think about those environmentally sensitive areas on the farm that could function better in a conservation practice. By visiting the Farm Service Agency (FSA) office near you staff can explain available conservation options, and various financial benefits. Both continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and the Conservtion Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) offer cost sharing on the installation of approved practices, reasonable annual rent payments, maintenance payments, and possibly additional incentive payments depending on the approved practice. Stop by your local FSA office and ask about grass waterways, filter strips, and riparian buffers, to learn how these practices can improve water quality and reduce erosion while generating cash for you.

Signature Authority
Producers are reminded to review who they wish to assign signature authority to for FSA programs. Normally husband and wife may sign documents on behalf of each other when either has an interest in the operation. Other individuals can be delegated signing authority by filing an FSA-211 form in the county office. Having trusted individuals designated as authorized signatories can be helpful during busy times when a change in plans requires a signed document, and you personally, are unable to do so. Power-of-attorney forms other than the FSA-211 are not always acceptable for FSA program purposes.

Benefits of On-Farm Storage
Having on-farm storage allows a producer to deliver and market grain at his or her convenience. On-farm grain facilities also can provide an economical means of drying grain and keeping the grain in proper condition. Farmers can eliminate commercial storage charges, and have greater latitude when it comes to obtaining their LDP or a Marketing Assistance Loan. For these reasons and others, producers may want to consider a Farm Storage Facility Loan from their local FSA office. Up to $100,000 per person can be used to buy and install new grain storage structures, drying facilities, and approved grain handling equipment at a competitively low interest rate on a 7-year loan. For more details about this and other programs call or visit your nearest FSA office.