BLOG
FSA’s role in CRP
The Farm Service Agency (or FSA) is a branch of the USDA that primarily oversees a number of conversation programs. In their own words, the purpose of these programs is to address issues including: Drinking water protection Reducing soil erosion Wildlife habitat preservation Preservation and restoration of forests and wetlands Aiding farmers whose farms are damaged by natural disasters Of
Improving Soil Health with Native Grasses and Forbs
Healthy soil is a critical component for life on this planet. Not only does it grow our plants and crops, but it absorbs rainfall, decomposes organisms and waste, and stores over 4 trillion tons of carbon. Forests, by comparison, only store around 360 billion tons (learn more about the importance of carbon sequestration here.) Though soil is often viewed as an
Using Native Grasses and Forbs for Carbon Sequestration
Our atmosphere’s carbon dioxide (CO2) levels are higher than they’ve been in 100,000 years. While CO2 is a natural part of the air we breathe, too much of it can be a very bad thing. As you may know, CO2 is a greenhouse gas, which means it absorbs heat (unlike oxygen or nitrogen). At proper amounts, CO2 serves a very important function of keeping
Promoting Bumblebees as Pollinators
Since being introduced to America in 1622, the honeybee has become our most prominent pollinator. In fact, the honeybee is responsible for $15 billion in US crops per year. But times are changing. Honeybees have seen their numbers sharply decline over the past few decades due to Colony Collapse Disorder. With no clear answers on what causes CCD or how it can be
Controlling Thistle and Other Noxious Weed in CRP
CRP practices often contain a diverse selection of plant species native to the area where you live. But that doesn’t mean you can let just anything grow there. As with traditional farming, weed control is an important part of establishing CRP. Weeds can hinder seed development, not to mention prove harmful for wildlife. If they’re not dealt with immediately and effectively,
Converting Land from One CRP Practice to Another
The process of converting old CRP to a new CRP practice can vary depending on the type of practice you’re enrolled in, as well as the condition of the land where it’s being established. The preparation of your land is very important for ensuring a successful conversion especially if the land has previously been in CRP. Even if you’re reenrolling in