AWEP Funding

 The Natural Resources Conservation Service is looking for potential partners for the USDA’s Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP). This program provides funding for projects that promote ground and surface water conservation and water quality improvement. Approximately $20.7 million is available nationally for new AWEP projects during fiscal year 2010.

“This program is designed to address water quality and quantity issues on a regional level," Jeff Burwell, Idaho State Conservationist said. “It’s an excellent opportunity for state agencies, irrigation districts or other agricultural organizations to propose projects that deal with local water issues. Proposals compete nationally for these AWEP funds.”

 Last year, Idaho received AWEP funding for several projects that reduce groundwater withdrawals in the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer. I asked State Conservation Engineer Rob Sampson if individual farmers could participate in the program and benefit financially: “An individual farmer could propose an AWEP project but they’re going to have faster results by participating in our regular EQIP program.”

Because AWEP is a component of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), producers who apply for assistance must meet EQIP eligibility requirements.