What's In A Name?

                NRD, NRCS, FSA, DEQ. If you’re in the ag industry or have anything to do with natural resources (which we all do) then you have probably heard these acronyms before but what do they mean and stand for? Let’s start with one we should all know! NRD which stands for Natural Resources District. Last week’s article spoke about what NRDs are and what they do. If you missed that article visit upperloupnrd.org and check it out! Next is another office located in Thedford. NRCS stands for Natural Resources Conservation District. This is a federal agency that’s mission is to help people conserve and improve natural resources. Some examples of NRCS programs are CSP or Conservation Stewardship Program and EQIP or Environmental Quality Incentives Program. Another agency is the FSA or Farm Service Agency. This is also a federal agency. Both NRCS and FSA are part of the USDA or United States Department of Agriculture. The FSA controls CRP or Conservation Reserve Program as well as provides Beginning Farmers and Rancher loans.

Next, we have state agencies. DNR stands for the Department of Natural Resources. DNR is charged with protecting and regulating the states surface water. This agency issues surface water permits, floodplain management, and insures the safety of dams in the state. The NeDEQ or Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality is another state agency. The NeDEQ was created to protect Nebraska’s air, land and water. This agency has recycling programs and grants, as well as waste management projects, and emissions testing.

All in all, when it comes to agriculture and natural resources there are a lot of players in our court to help producers and landowners do what’s best for our land, air, and water. If you have any questions or want more information call the Upper Loup NRD at 308-645-2250 or visit upperloupnrd.org!