Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has secured a $7 million grant from the USDA to launch the I-COVER program, aimed at promoting the use of cover crops among producers and landowners. This initiative, known as the Infield Conservation for Operationalizing Vital Ecosystem Resilience Program, offers financial incentives to those new to cover crops or employing innovative techniques for their early establishment.

The program is supported by a multi-state USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) grant involving Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa. It will run for three years, covering crops planted in 2025, 2026, and 2027.

"Research shows that cover crops improve soil health, reduce erosion, increase drought resistance, and reduce pests, weeds and diseases," stated Jerry Costello II, Illinois Director of Agriculture. He encouraged farmers to participate in this new effort to conserve and protect fertile soil in Illinois.

Pre-enrollment for the program opens on February 10, 2025. Applications can be submitted starting March 3 until March 14. Interested parties can access pre-enrollment forms and applications online through the IDOA website.

Financial incentives vary based on practice scenarios: $61.13 per acre for winter-killed species; $85.65 per acre for single spring-terminated species; and $105.40 per acre for multiple spring-terminated species.

Applications will be processed on a first come, first served basis with priority given to one application per county initially. Verification processes will involve both IDOA staff and local Soil and Water Conservation District personnel who will check applicants' eligibility under USDA Farm Bill provisions.

Applicants need to provide specific documentation such as the CCC-902 form or proof of control over the land if selected. Additionally, acres must not be enrolled in other programs implementing cover crops during this period.

For more information about I-COVER's guidelines or assistance with applications, potential participants are directed to visit IDOA's website or contact them via email or phone.