USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering financial and technical assistance to livestock producers for animal mortality disposal resulting from impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Producers facing livestock depopulation are encouraged to file for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) by submitting an application (Form CCC-1200) to their local NRCS field office. Applications are currently being accepted.
How to apply
Through EQIP, a producer can apply for a practice called Emergency Animal Mortality Management. Through NRCS in Minnesota, this practice includes these options for the proper disposal of animal carcasses:
| Payment Rate | Payment Rate | ||
| Option | Payment Unit | Traditional | *HU |
| Burial | AU | $74.28 | $89.14 |
| Swine Disposal Other Than Burial | AU | $113.43 | $136.11 |
| Incineration | AU | $219.88 | $263.86 |
| Disposal at Landfill or Render | Pounds | $0.05 | $.06 |
Conversion Fact: 1,000 lbs. = Animal Unit (AU)
The producer is responsible for the proper disposal of animal mortality by following requirements specific to each option. All federal, state and local laws must be followed and it is the responsibility of the producer to secure any necessary permits. Plans and permits may be required for each option. Contact the Minnesota Board of Animal Health.
Eligibility
Agricultural producers and owners of nonindustrial private forestland and Tribes are
eligible to apply for EQIP. Eligible land includes cropland, rangeland, pastureland, nonindustrial private forestland and other farm or ranch lands.
For eligibility requirements, an application and approved early start waiver must be filed with the local NRCS office.
Other program information:
- To receive assistance, producers must have both an application and an approved early start waiver filed at the local NRCS office prior to disposal of animal carcasses.
- Financial assistance is limited and not all applications will be funded.
- Prior to payment, a swine mortality certification is required by veterinarian or animal health specialist.
- Payment cap is $25,000 per eligible applicant.
- *Historically Underserved (HU) producers, including socially disadvantaged, beginning and limited resource farmers, Indian tribes and beginning farmers/veterans are eligible for an increased payment rate.
For more information on the program, click here.
