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Conservation Concerns Part of Ag Policy Committee Discussion

by Kindra Gordon for Angus Productions Inc.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 3, 2012) — Wayne Honeycutt, deputy chief for science and technology with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), provided an update of how the future Farm Bill could affect conservation programs during the Ag Policy Committee meeting Feb. 3 at the Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville, Tenn.

 

“Many of you are hearing that Congress is focused on deficit reductions for the next Farm Bill, and it is likely conservation programs will be impacted,” Honeycutt said as he addressed committee members.

 

“There will be an increased need to do more with less and an increased need to streamline initiatives,” he said of future conservation programs.

 

But along with that Honeycutt emphasized, “We know our budget climate is going to present challenges, but we know conservation works.” He cited the Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP), which has quantified the beneficial effects conservation has had on cropland, grazing land, wetlands and wildlife.

 

Specifically, Honeycutt pointed out that conservation practices on the land have helped reduce erosion 40% during the last 30 years. Plus, crop yields have doubled to quadrupled during the last 60 years. Honeycutt acknowledged some of that is due to better crop genetics, but said conservation has played a role in boosting yields, too.

 

Honeycutt also mentioned the Sage Grouse Initiative being put forth in several western states by NRCS and said, “This ain’t just about saving the bird. It’s about keeping ranchers ranching.”

 

Honeycutt said they do not want this to become another spotted owl — in which an entire industry was shut down. Rather, he said, “We are trying to take a proactive approach. Research has shown ranching and grazing can benefit sage grouse populations.”

 

For 2012, Honeycutt reported that existing NRCS programs “made out pretty well” considering the budget climate. He said EQIP and CSP both received funding increases over 2011, while the WHIP and RRLP (Rental Recovery Loan Program) both received some funding cuts.

 

He concluded, “We are hopeful the next Farm Bill will allow us to continue to make these conservation programs available to help us (NRCS) help you.”