The Mississippi River Basin supports a vast array of economic, commercial, and recreational activities. But runoff from farm fields pollutes lakes and streams in the 10 states that border the Mississippi River. Farm sediment, fertilizer runoff and livestock waste are the source of over 70 percent of the pollution exacerbating the Dead Zone in the Mississippi River-Gulf of Mexico. The most promising tool to combat the Dead Zone is the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), which offers assistance to farmers and ranchers who pledge to reduce their runoff, improve water and air quality, and preserve wildlife habitat. Seizing a Watershed Moment details suggestions to increase EQIP's effectiveness.
Featured Press:
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Senate Budget Spares Crop Subsidies, Cuts Conservation Payments
E and E News/Greenwire | March 26, 2009
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Environmental Group: Target US aid at most polluted waters in Iowa
Des Moines Register | May 29, 2009