NEWS

Dover, DE, July 10, 2009 - The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is encouraging landowners to sign-up for a special initiative for phragmites control.  NRCS is offering technical and financial assistance to eligible persons through the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP).  To be eligible for assistance, applications must be received by NRCS no later than Friday, July 24.

“Phragmites is a recurrent problem that we are working hard to help landowners eradicate through a controlled spraying process,” said Tim Garrahan, NRCS Farm Bill Program Specialist.  “This invasive species reduces native habitat beneficial to Delaware’s wildlife.”

Applicants should have a minimum of five continuous acres of phragmites available for spraying to be eligible for the program.  NRCS will pay up to 75 percent of the costs associated with phragmites control.  Contracts will be awarded to participants for a three-year period.

WHIP offers technical and financial assistance to private landowners to develop and improve high quality habitat that supports wildlife populations of significance.  Land eligible for WHIP includes private agricultural or forest land.  

For additional information on WHIP or other voluntary NRCS conservation programs contact the local USDA Service Center nearest you. In Kent County, call 302-741-2600 x 3; in Sussex, call 302-856-3990, x 3 and in New Castle, call 302-832-3100 x 3.

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