SALINA — State Conservationist Eric B. Banks announced the extended deadline for enrollments in the Lesser Prairie-Chicken Initiative for fiscal year 2014. Producers interested in participating in the program can submit applications to the Natural Resources Conservation Service through April 18.

Kansas NRCS will fund the initiative through its Environmental Quality Incentives Program and provide producers an opportunity to improve the Lesser Prairie-Chicken habitat while promoting the overall health of grazing lands and the long-term sustainability of Kansas ranching. Expired or expiring Conservation Reserve Program fields in permanent cover that may benefit LPC habitat could also be eligible for funding.

All applicants must meet EQIP eligibility requirements. In Kansas, socially disadvantaged, veteran, limited resource and beginning farmers and ranchers will receive a higher payment rate for conservation practices implemented through the LPCI.

For more information, visit the Kansas NRCS web page at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov or contact your local USDA Service Center.