Farmstead ShelterbeltsCurrently there are several programs available to fund shelterbelts - CRP, EQIP, and State Cost-Share. Under continuous CRP, shelterbelts can be funded only on areas with FSA crop history. Cost-share under CRP will usually run about 50%. Landowners most likely will be eligible for incentives that could help fund an additional 30-40% of the cost, bringing the total cost-share in the range of 70-80%. The EQIP program can fund shelterbelts on cropland and non-cropland. EQIP is a competitive program through an application process and not all applicants are funded. State cost-share covers 75% of most costs; however funding amounts are limited to a first come, first served basis. Small plantings, or plantings in or near cities and lake lots are reviewed by the SWCD Board on an individual basis to determine if cost-sharing is warranted.
Field WindbreaksThese plantings are usually one or two rows that stretch across open fields, generally on lighter soils, to prevent erosion caused by wind. CRP, EQIP, or State cost-share can be used to fund field windbreaks. CRP is used most often because the program pays a land rental rate for 15 years for the area that the field windbreak is planted on. With the increase in residue left by today's conservative tillage methods, field windbreaks are becoming less desired. However, studies show that field windbreaks can increase the average yield across the field, even when considering the space windbreaks occupy, and low yields normally found next to the windbreak. They do this by decreasing the velocity of hot, dry summer winds, therefore decreasing crop stress during those harsh weather conditions.
Wildlife Tree PlantingsWhether they are willing to improve winter pheasant cover, or looking forward to that out of the way place to put their deer stand 15 years down the road, people in Big Stone County have always been interested in planting trees for wildlife. Programs available to fund wildlife plantings have been reduced over the years, but some still remain depending on yearly finding allocations. Big Stone County Pheasants Forever Chapter still provides assistance for wildlife plantings including fabric, grass cover, trees, and tree tubes.
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Also Available for Purchase:Plantskydd Animal Repellent1 lb.Concentrated Powder - $25
1 qt. Ready-To-Use Spray - $22 
Tubex Animal ControlInquire with the SWCD for prices
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