News from U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service
Contact: Jolene Lau, Public Affairs Specialist at 808-541-2600 ext. 135 (Honolulu)

EXTENSION ANNOUNCED FOR FLOODPLAIN EASEMENT ASSISTANCE
Help for Landowners through Recovery Act

March 27, 2009—The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) extended the sign-up period until April 10, 2009 for funding available to eligible landowners through the floodplain easement component of the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP).

"This opportunity is important because it can help to revitalize our economy and at the same time recover land previously damaged by flooding,” said Lawrence Yamamoto, NRCS Director of the Pacific Islands Area.

The purpose of the funding is to restore frequently flooded land to its natural state and create jobs. The funding is available through President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and includes both technical and financial assistance.

Floodplains generate many public benefits, such as increased flood protection, enhanced fish and wildlife habitat, improved water quality, and a reduced need for future public disaster assistance. Other benefits include reduced energy consumption when certain agricultural activities and practices are eliminated and increased carbon sequestration as permanent native vegetative cover is re-established.

For eligibility requirements landowners should refer to the Emergency Watershed Protection - Floodplain Easement fact sheet. All eligible landowners in the Pacific Islands Area are encouraged to sign-up for the funding by visiting their local NRCS office. The sign-up, originally announced March 7, will close April 10, 2009. Visit www.pia.nrcs.usda.gov to find the nearest NRCS office. USDA is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

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Jolene Lau
Public Affairs Specialist
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
300 Ala Moana Blvd., #4-118
Honolulu, HI 96850
(808) 541-2600 ext. 135

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