TWIN FALLS – The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking applicants in the Middle Snake River region for National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) funding.
NRCS approved the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ’s) application for the Mid-Snake NWQI in December 2025. The NWQI represents a joint effort between NRCS, local soil and water conservation districts, and community stakeholders. It also supports the DEQ’s Mid-Snake Total Maximum Daily Load revision by funding conservation practices that promote cleaner water and efficient use.
The NWQI helps producers in priority watershed apply conservation measures to protect water quality and quantity. Projects are funded through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). There are several examples of applicable conservation-focused projects:
- Irrigation water management
- Residue and tillage management
- Cover crops
- Nutrient management
- Prescribed grazing
- Riparian forest buffer
- Forest stand improvement
- Soil health improvement
- Wildlife habitat improvement
Producers in the Goat Springs Creek, Desert Creek-Cedar Draw, Outlet Cedar Draw, Sucker Flat-Snake River, Mud Creek, and Briggs Creek-Snake River watersheds are eligible for funding.
A payment rate of up to 90% is available to eligible farmers and landowners in these areas for approved conservation practices that meet the goals of the local watershed plans.
To apply for funding, visit your local US Department of Agriculture Service Center or the NRCS website. NRCS will help eligible producers develop an EQIP plan of operations, which will become the basis of the EQIP contract. NRCS Idaho accepts applications for EQIP-funded projects, such as NWQI, throughout the year. For questions, contact the Twin Falls USDA Service Center at (208) 944-3765.