REAP
Applications,
Guidelines
Available Online
HARRISBURG --
Pennsylvania farmers now have a second opportunity to apply for a tax credit program that rewards them for conservation practices that reduce erosion and sedimentation.
Guidelines and applications for the 2008-09 Resource Enhancement and Protection tax credit program, or REAP, are now available at
www.agriculture.state.pa.us/REAP. For those without Internet access, the commission can mail an application.
“Pennsylvania is committed to helping farmers maintain viable businesses, and to improving conservation practices that protect water quality,” said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. “Farmers need support in this time of rising production and energy costs, and programs like REAP provide a win-win for everyone.”
REAP is administered by the State Conservation Commission and encourages farmers to use conservation best management practices to reduce erosion and sedimentation impacting Pennsylvania’s streams and watersheds.
Applications will be accepted by the commission, beginning August 4, on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications postmarked July 30 or earlier will be returned.
Farmers can receive tax credits of up to $150,000 per agricultural operation for 50 or 75 percent of the total cost of a conservation project, depending on the best management practice implemented. Farmers may also qualify for a 50 percent tax credit to purchase no-till planting equipment.
Applicants are encouraged to work with local county conservation districts or the Natural Resources Conservation Service before applying to ensure current plans are in place for each farming operation, including conservation, agricultural erosion and sedimentation control, and nutrient management plans, if required.
Fore more information about the program, contact Program Administrator Mary Bender at 717-787-8821 or via
mabender@state.pa.us.
