Conservation

          Our mission is to be the link between you and the technical and financial resources needed  to achieve your conservation goals. To achieve this the SWCD works with a broad range of programs and partners. These are a few of the programs we work with and the partners that provide them.

Programs with our Natural Resource Conservation Service  partners.

 EQIP: Cost share and incentive payments for conservation farming practices.

   WHIP:  Cost share for wildlife projects on private land.

WRP: Restores drained wetlands and adjacent uplands.

CRP: This program retires farm fields through a competitive bidding process when open.

Continuous CRP: Specifically targeted at farm and pasture land near water or prone to erosion. This program pays from $44 to $85 an acre in our area depending on soil type and features a $100 an acre signing bonus on most acres. Installation is cost shared up to 90% of the eligible costs. Options include shelterbelts, filter strips, windbreaks, and wetland restorations. We can sign you up at any time if the Farm Service Agency determines your land is eligible.

These programs do not allow public access to your land.

Programs through the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources

SCS: The state cost share fund is used to help landowners install windbreaks, shelterbelts, stream and lakeshore erosion control, and other conservation practices with 75% cost sharing. A ten year agreement to maintain the practice is required.

 RIM: The Reinvest In Minnesota program is an easement program with a variety of options depending on the site and feature to be protected. Payments vary with the feature and level of protection.

Programs through the MN Department of Health

Wellhead Protection: The SWCD works with local communities to protect their drinking water sources.

Programs through the MN Department of Agriculture

AG BMP Loan: The State offers low interest loans through local lenders for conservation practices, equipment, and environmental protection projects.

The East Otter Tail Soil and Water Conservation District is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, public assistance status, veteran status or sexual orientation.