Utah Now Accepting Applications for Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in Utah is now accepting applications for the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program (SCP). This program, available through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), is open to agricultural producers in Carbon, Daggett, Duchesne, Emery, and Uintah Counties.

The Colorado River and its tributaries supply water to millions of people for various uses, making it essential to manage salinity levels. Elevated salinity in the river can cause significant harm to agricultural, municipal, and industrial water users. Salinity projects focus on improving irrigation systems to reduce salt loading in the Colorado River.

Applications for the program must be submitted by July 5, 2024. To expedite the process for qualifying applications, ACT Now will be implemented. More information about the NRCS Utah EQIP program can be found on their website.

Eligible applications received after the deadline may still be considered later in the fiscal year. Producers must have up-to-date farm records with the Farm Service Agency and submit a complete program application to be eligible. Those interested are encouraged to reach out to their local USDA Service Center for assistance.

The Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Act of 1974 authorized federal funding for salinity control projects in the region. Studies have shown that improving irrigation systems to increase efficiency is the most cost-effective way to control salinity. In Utah, five Salinity Control Units were established through this act, and the NRCS continues to manage salinity control in the Colorado River Basin.

USDA is committed to providing equal opportunities for all in this program. Interested producers are urged to apply and help in the effort to manage salinity in the Colorado River.