Introduction

Special Note:  Our goal is to update this information during the later half of every September.  However, 2007-2008 information will be delayed until 2008 (hopefully by the end of January) as much of the stewardship conservation related legislation is in the process of being updated and reauthorized. 

INTRODUCTION

For those of you managing your property's natural resources in 2006-07, including wildlife, timber, crops, livestock, soil, water, recreation and aesthetics, you will be interested to learn about the conservation opportunities that offer technical and financial assistance to help you manage for sustainable agriculture and natural ecosystems. 

Enclosed, please find a brief updated summary of 12 conservation programs. While there are numerous other programs available, these have been carefully selected because of their current funding status and the high likelihood that you can qualify to receive assistance, especially if you have already taken the first step to have a comprehensive management plan written for your property.  In Georgia, Forest Stewardship Program plans are appropriate for forest-dominated lands while Conservation Plans are appropriate for agricultural-dominated lands. 

The Georgia Forestry Commission, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Farm Services Agency, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, United States Forest Service, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources- Wildlife Resources Division have all worked cooperatively to provide this information.  These programs can help you manage your property to re-establish and enhance ecosystems and their natural resources that benefit all Georgians. Application sign-ups are accepted throughout the year for all programs except CRP, which is announced periodically.

This should be another great year for Georgia in terms of conservation programs that offer technical and financial assistance.  We sincerely hope you will take advantage of these opportunities.