Sonora, CA — The Natural Resources Conservation Service has announced that applications are now being accepted from farmers and ranchers wishing to participate in the 2006 Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

The cutoff deadline for accepting applications from Amador, Calaveras and Tuolumne Counties is December 2nd. The program offers funds on a cost-share basis to producers for practices ranging from micro irrigation systems to wind breaks.

Organizers say applications are scored and ranked based on a locally modified scoring system striving to get the best environmental benefits. Landowners wanting more information about the program and how it can be used to install conservation measures on their property should contact their local NRCS office.