USDA plays a critical role in the sound stewardship of the Nation's land and natural resources. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), formerly the Soil Conservation Service, in partnership with local Conservation Districts are involved in many ground water protection activities:
- They are identified in State Pesticide Management Plans as a partner in carrying out technical assistance and educational efforts.
- The provide site information, evaluation, technical specifications and planning assistance for Best Management Practices (BMPs).
- The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) administered by NRCS can provide cost-share assistance for BMPS.
- NRCS has developed county based soil survey that rank soil for ground water contamination vulnerability assessments using leaching ratings.
For more information on NRCS programs visit their web site at www.nhq.nrcs.usda.gov. The person in NRCS Washington office in charge of ground water is Jerry Benard @ 202-720-5356
http://www.usda.gov
Return to Federal, State
and Local Programs