Jul 19 2012
KDLT: Noem Asks Vilsack To Open CRP Acres Early
By Tom Hanson
All three members of South Dakota’s congressional delegation are asking U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to open up Conservation Reserve Program land for grazing and cutting hay. The government pays farmers to set aside CRP acres so wildlife like pheasants can thrive. Congresswoman Kristi Noem says she's contacted several sportsmen’s groups who support opening up CRP acres for drought relief.
Noem says, "The support of these conservation groups is huge and hopefully we can get some reaction from the USDA and get those acres opened up".
Senators John Thune and Tim Johnson also asked Vilsack to open up CRP acres early. Traditionally CRP land is protected until August 2nd, which gives nesting pheasants time to mature.
Read more: http://www.kdlt.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=19103&Itemid=57