Briefs for Jan. 13, 2021
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USDA sets application cutoff date
News from USDA
BOZEMAN — The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Montana is accepting applications for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program. While NRCS accepts easement applications on a continuous basis, applications for the next funding consideration must be submitted by Feb. 5, 2021.
“Easements are sometimes a perfect fit for a landowner who is looking to protect his or her land from future development or to protect and improve wetlands or provide critical habitat for wildlife,” said Allen Persinger, NRCS assistant state conservationist for easement programs in Montana.
ACEP Agricultural Land Easements provide financial assistance to eligible partners for purchasing easements that project the agricultural use and conservation values of eligible land. In the case of working farms, the program helps farmers and ranchers keep their land in agriculture.
ACEP Wetlands Reserve Easements allow landowners to successfully restore, enhance and protect habitat for wildlife on their lands, reduce damage from flooding, recharge groundwater and provide outdoor recreational and educational opportunities. Eligible landowners can choose to enroll in a permanent or 30-year easement. Tribal landowners also have the option of enrolling in 30-year contracts.
To learn about ACEP and other technical and financial assistance available through NRCS, call your local USDA Service Center or visit: www.mt.nrcs.usda.gov.
Free ‘Concept to Consumer’ workshop offered
News from LCCDC
RONAN — This wide-ranging class will provide you with a firm foundation for starting your food business. Topics covered will include: target market development, cottage food law, wholesale food manufacturing, food product development, processing options, planning your food business.
Instructor Jan Tusick has a strong background in agriculture, finance and capitalization, networking, and marketing. She networks with economic development organizations and state agencies to ensure her clients are well-represented. Join us for this free class that will help you take your food business from concept to consumer.
Dates and locations:
— Wednesday, Jan. 27, 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m., Boys and Girls Club in Ronan (limited in-person seating)
— Wednesday, Jan. 27, 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m., via Zoom
— Thursday, Jan. 28,
9 a.m.–3 p.m., via Zoom
These workshops fill up quickly, so reserve your seat today and register online at: lccdc.ecenterdirect.com/events.
Governor Gianforte launches red tape relief task force
News from the office of Governor Gianforte
HELENA — Signing his first executive order, Governor Greg Gianforte today established the Red Tape Relief Task Force.
Governor Gianforte, who campaigned on the promise of conducting a top-to-bottom regulatory review of all state agencies, will rely on the task force to identify excessive, outdated, and unnecessary regulations.
Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras will lead the task force.
“The message from Montana small business owners, farmers, and ranchers has been loud and clear: unnecessary red tape is out of control, and they need help. Today we’re taking our first steps to provide them with much needed red tape relief, and I’m grateful to Lieutenant Governor Juras for leading the charge,” Governor Gianforte said after signing the executive order.
The Red Tape Relief Task Force will present its report and proposals to the governor by Aug. 1, 2021.
