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RCPP Project M 2714 <br /> Sign-up Timing Considerations Yes <br /> If No,NRCS will follow scheduled RCPP FA obligations per Table of <br /> Deliverables <br /> If Do Not Agree, then explain what should be done <br /> Please describe other timing related considerations: <br /> We propose either continuous signup or a minimum of 2 batching <br /> periods. <br /> Document any rental activity-based considerations not captured above, <br /> including: <br /> Please describe anticipated conservation benefits of rental awards <br /> Benefits will include: maximization of sediment and nutrient load <br /> reductions to Lake Decatur, stabilization of marginal grounds, <br /> expansion of climate smart crops, support for the establishment of <br /> local markets, and an expansion of organic farming in the watershed. <br /> Describe other activity and rental scenario related considerations not <br /> captured elsewhere. <br /> We propose an innovative approach to the strategic placement of <br /> cover crops, the sustainable use of those crops, and tillage <br /> management. Often times, net soil loss from a given field is greatest <br /> on HEL soil units,along field edges, in concentrated flow paths and <br /> next to streams/receiving waterbodies. For example, modeling <br /> performed in this and other watersheds show that the vast majority <br /> Conservation Activity of sediment delivery is originating from a small number of HEL soil <br /> Considerations units. Furthermore, the sheer number of absentee landowners in the <br /> watershed is a challenge for conservation, especially on fields deemed <br /> critical from a water quality standpoint. Tenant farmers are <br /> generally less willing to invest financially in conservation as a result. <br /> We intend to use rental agreements to incentivize cover crops and <br /> tillage management placement along field borders, on HEL soil units, <br /> adjected to streams and in concentrated flow paths. For example a <br /> dense stand of wheat or rye in a concentrated flow path in place of a <br /> grass permanent waterway for the period of the year when we receive <br /> the greatest volume of our annual runoff. Innovative incentives such <br /> as this will not only maximize the water quality benefits but provide <br /> the flexibility to work with tenant farmers and those that do not <br /> traditionally participate in NRCS programs. Finally,allowing for the <br /> harvest of these cover crops will allow us to offer lower rental rates, <br /> field test new species of climate smart crops, and incentivize <br /> transition to organic farming. <br /> I <br /> Discuss NRCS payment rate methodology, and expectation of <br /> comparability with related covered programs (here likely CRP) <br /> Document atypcal payment rate needs by practice/activity(e.g. above or below related <br /> covered program payment percentages) <br /> Above Covered Program Payment Percentages <br /> Page 40 of 51 <br />