FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Amy O. Maxwell
(803) 765-5402
amy.maxwell@sc.usda.gov

Extension Announced for Floodplain Easement Assistance
NRCS extends sign-up period for floodplain easements until April 10, 2009

March 26, 2009— The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) extended the sign-up period until April 10 for funding available to eligible landowners through the floodplain easement component of the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP).

"This funding is important to helping revitalize our economy and at the same time recover land damaged or threatened by flooding,” said NRCS State Conservationist Niles Glasgow.

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 can visit the NRCS website at www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/ewp/Floodplain/index.html

All eligible landowners in South Carolina 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.

South Carolina Camo Coalition Legislative Priorities for 2009

The SC Camo Coalition met on November 13 to establish natural resource legislative priorities for the coming year. The SC Camo Coalition will monitor important natural resource and fish and wildlife legislation and will "weigh-in" when warranted to protect resources and our outdoor heritage. We also will advocate for an increased appreciation for the vital role hunting, fishing, farming, forestry, tourism and other outdoor pursuits play in the economy of the Palmetto State.

Highest Priorities

1. Protection of Rivers and Streams- Permit water withdrawals of more than 3 million gallons of water per month. Permits must protect the physical, chemical and biological integrity of rivers and streams.

2. Protect dwindling wildlife habitats and hunting opportunities. Support funding of the SC Conservation Bank.

3. Support funding for the SC Department of Natural Resources, SC Department of Parks Recreation and Tourism and the SC Commission of Forestry. Budgets of these agencies have been reduced by a greater percentage than other state agencies and their ability to manage our state's natural resources is greatly diminished. The Camo Coalition strongly supports funding for necessary Natural Resource Management.

4. Support the establishment of wildlife conservation and outdoor education courses in the public school system.

SCWA is proud to be part of the Camo Coalition. The Camo Coalition is a task force of 17 conservation organizations working together to protect the legacy of South Carolina’s outdoor heritage. We look forward to keeping SCWA members updated on Camo Coalition news.