News Release

USDA NRCS Announces Funding Opportunity to
Adopt Conservation Practices through Initiatives and Special Projects
Deadline for Applications is Friday, November 2, 2018

TRENTON, September 28, 2018 - The United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) is announcing a funding opportunity through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to facilitate the adoption of conservation practices for several of the NRCS National Initiatives and Special Projects. To be considered in this fiscal year (FY) 2019 first funding cycle, applications must be received by Friday, November 2, 2018.

“While we accept applications for this program on a continuous basis, only the applications received by November 2 will be considered for funding this fiscal year,” said Sheldon Hightower, Tennessee NRCS State Conservationist. “This early sign-up places a priority on water quality, water conservation, and promotes soil health practices by offering assistance to landowners to address resource concerns on eligible agricultural land.”

EQIP is an incentives-based program that provides technical and financial assistance to eligible private landowners for conservation systems such as animal waste management facilities, irrigation system efficiency improvements, fencing, and water supply development for improved grazing management, riparian protection, and wildlife habitat enhancement.

Projects to be considered for this early funding cycle include:

• Mississippi River Basin Initiative: To address water quality concerns and agricultural sources of nutrients and sediment, NRCS works with farmers and conservation partners to implement conservation practices that help trap sediment and reduce nutrient runoff to improve the overall health of the Mississippi River.

 
 
Interested applicants must meet the specific funding pool’s required criteria to be considered for funding in this early signup. EQIP applications submitted after the cut-off date of November 2, 2018 will be accepted on a continuous basis and may be considered for funding at a later date in the fiscal year.

For more information about signing up for EQIP please visit the Trenton USDA Service Center (1252 Manufacturers Row, Trenton, TN 38382). For more information about Tennessee NRCS, visit the website at www.tn.nrcs.usda.gov.

Gibson County Fair Booth 2019

Gibson County Soil Conservation District Takes Home Blue Ribbon

The Gibson County Soil Conservation District along with NRCS participated in the 164th Gibson County Fair by displaying an exhibit that won first place. The theme of the Gibson County Fair was Let The Good Times Grow. The booth displayed this theme well by incorporating agriculture into a fun environment for children and adults to enjoy. Many of the props were made by Mr. Hill Rodgers, retired GCSCD technician. Pamphlets and other handouts were provided at the exhibit to offer education on conservation to a non-traditional audience.

New District Technician

Trenton Field Office Welcomes Luke Hemby

The Gibson County Soil Conservation District is proud to announce the newest addition to the Trenton Field Office, Mr. Luke Hemby. Luke was hired on as the new District Technician in August. We are very excited and know that Luke will be an asset for the Trenton Field Office and the producers of Gibson County.

Luke is a native of Gates, Tennessee and a 2012 graduate from The University of Tennessee at Martin with a degree in Agriculture. He has spent the last 4 years working as a District Technician for the Lauderdale County Soil Conservation District. In Luke’s free time, he enjoys raising horses, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and being a pickup man in saddle bronc and bareback riding competitions at rodeos.

Soil Conservation District Technician Position

The Gibson County Soil Conservation District is accepting application for the Soil Conservation District Technician Position. This position is responsible for field work activities to plan and implement conservation practices, and to assist with the daily operation of the GCSCD. Extensive field work is required in a variety of adverse weather conditions.  Job related duties require thorough knowledge of soil conservation practice standards and specifications. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and decision-making skills are necessary to perform job duties. Employee must have sufficient physical strength (Ability to lift 50+ pounds, extensive walking, etc.) and agility to perform field related activities in a variety of adverse weather conditions. Minimum required qualifications include: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent; Must be proficient with Windows based computer software (Microsoft Office Software Suite etc.); Possession of a valid driver’s license and demonstrate a safe driving record.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agricultural Engineering Technology, Soil and Water Conservation or closely related field is preferred, but not required. Agricultural background is preferred. GIS Experience is preferred. Applications will be accepted until Tuesday, July 31, 2018 or until a qualified applicant is selected.

Soil Conservation District Technician Description

Soil Conservation District Technician Application