You can find NRCS in the same office as the Kalamazoo Conservation District.

Do you want to learn more about NRCS or sign up for a Farm Bill Program?

Call or email Di'Shun Melbert, District Conservationist, at the Portage office.

Office phone: 269-775-3360 or email: dishun.melbert@usda.gov

On-Farm Energy Inititatives

On-Farm Energy Initiative: NRCS Energy Management Audit

The NRCS Energy Management Audit is a comprehensive assessment designed to help agricultural producers optimize energy efficiency and reduce costs on their operations. Through this audit, producers can identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance energy conservation.

Benefits of NRCS Energy Management Audit:

1. Reduce energy costs
2. Increase efficiency of operations
3. Enhance sustainability and environmental stewardship
4. Improve overall farm profitability

EQIP Practices Available After Audit:

After completing the NRCS Energy Management Audit, producers may be eligible for various EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program) practices to implement energy-saving measures on their farms. Some of these practices include:

1. Energy-Efficient Lighting Systems: Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting systems such as LED fixtures to reduce electricity consumption and maintenance costs in Dairy Barns, Swine Facilities, and Poultry Housing.

2. High-Efficiency Irrigation Systems: Implement irrigation system upgrades, such as drip or micro-irrigation, and irrigation pump upgrades, to optimize water and energy usage.

4. Energy Management System: Implement an energy management system to monitor and control energy usage, leading to better efficiency and cost savings. These include but are not limited to:

• Plate Coolers and Scroll Compressors
• Variable Speed Drivers
• Grain Dryer Replacement
• Motor Upgrades for ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with agricultural production.

5. Building Insulation and Weatherization: Improve insulation and weatherization of farm buildings to reduce heating and cooling costs. These include but are not limited to:

• Sealant for gaps between walls, gables, ceiling, etc. in an agricultural or livestock building or a greenhouse.
• Replacing HAF Fans for animal housing

How to Get Started:

To take advantage of the NRCS Energy Management Audit and access EQIP practices, contact your local NRCS office to schedule an appointment. In Kalamazoo County contact NRCS at 269-775-3360.

For more information, visit NRCS website (https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/)

USDA Conservation Funds Available for St. Joseph River Watershed

Michigan Natural Resources and Conservation Services

Web Soil Survey

US Department of Agriculture/Natural Resources Conservation Service
 

USDA Funds Available to Michigan Farmers