Air Quality Initiative (NAQI)

The National Air Quality Initiative assists with the adoption of conservation practices through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to help improve air quality through reducing dust and carbon emissions. This Initiative sets aside funding in select states to help advance the adoption of these practices.

Eligible Land Type:

• Cropland and hayland

• Rangeland

• Pastureland

• Non-industrial private forestland

• Other farm or ranch lands

• Environmentally sensitive areas

Eligible applicants(s) include:

• Agricultural producers

• Owners of non-industrial private forestland

• Indian Tribes

• Those with an interest in the agricultural or forestry operations

• Water management entities

Apply for an EQIP

Applications for EQIP​ financial assistance are accepted throughout the year. Specific deadlines are set for ranking and funding opportunities within each state. The best way to learn if EQIP is a good fit for you is by contacting your local NRCS office. If you choose to move forward, your local NRCS conservationist will guide you through applying for the program.

Applications for conservation practices and systems that will result in greater environmental benefits for national, state, and/or local natural resource priorities will receive a higher score and higher priority to receive an offer for a financial assistance contract.

Once you have chosen the right conservation practices for your land, you may be offered an EQIP contract to receive financial assistance for the cost of implementing certain practices. Payment rates for conservation practices are reviewed and set each fiscal year.

NAQI approved practices for FY16