Tour of Conservation Reserve Program projects to highlight event
MANHATTAN -- The Kansas Farm Service Agency (FSA) has invited the public to attend an event celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) on June 7. The highlight of the event will be a CRP Field Tour conducted in Dickinson County.

Participants will meet at the Mary Dell Camp Area of Brown Memorial Park, approximately 1½ miles south of Abilene. Bus transportation for the tour will be available for 96 people; others may follow in their own vehicles. Registration will begin at 8:15 a.m. and the buses will leave at 9 a.m.

During the tour, participants will learn more about filter strips, rare and declining habitat, contour grass strip terraces, and upland bird habitat buffers. Conservation experts and landowners will share their experiences and explain the environmental benefits of these practices. After the tour, the participants will return to Brown Memorial Park for a catered lunch. The lunch will be catered by Ricky's Cafe of Hanover and is sponsored by Pheasants Forever.

CRP participants can receive annual rental payments and cost-share assistance to establish long-term, resource-conserving practices on eligible farmland. Through CRP, farmers and ranchers plant grasses and trees in crop fields and along streams. These plantings keep soil for future generations, stop soil and nutrients from washing into waterways or blowing away, and provide habitat for wildlife. The results include safer drinking water, cleaner lakes, and enhanced wildlife habitat, which benefits everyone.

To pre-register for the CRP Field Tour, phone 785-539-3531 or e-mail betty.unterberger@ks.usda.gov. Although not required, pre-registration will reserve meal and bus arrangements.

Persons with disabilities or special needs should contact Rod Winkler at 785-539-3534 or e-mail rod.winkler@ks.usda.gov .
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