Advancing Conservation Efforts in Klamath Basin

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and local conservation districts are bringing the benefits of voluntary, locally led conservation to farmers, ranchers, tribes, and others in the Klamath River Basin. “The Bush Administration is working to assist farmers and ranchers in the Klamath Basin,” said Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman. In March 2003, USDA released $6 million in financial assistance to assist farmers in the Oregon and California Klamath Basin. “This funding will help producers accelerate implementation of conservation practices on the ground this year,” added Secretary Veneman.

California State Conservationist Chuck Bell stated: "I am delighted with the early release of these funds to assist producers with critical water conservation needs.” The funds are part of a $50 million fund for Klamath farmers made available through the NRCS-administered Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) authorized in the 2002 Farm Bill. California will receive $3 million of those funds.

"Through the combined efforts of the Klamath Basin producers, local conservation districts and USDA, on-farm conservation measures will be implemented to reduce water demand and increase irrigation efficiencies," said NRCS Chief Bruce Knight.

Eligible farmers will receive financial and technical assistance to improve the efficiency of on-farm irrigation systems and institute other measures that improve ground and surface water conservation. Conservation practices will result in net savings in groundwater or surface water resources on the agricultural operation of the producer.

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