Louisiana NRCS Announces New Orleans High Tunnel Initiative

ALEXANDRIA – The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) today unveiled the New Orleans High Tunnel Initiative that includes not only Orleans Parish but portions of Jefferson, St. Bernard and Plaquemine Parishes.

Funded through NRCS’ Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) the NOLA High Tunnel Initiative assists producers to extend the growing season for high value crops in an environmentally safe manner.  The initiative has the potential to assist producers in addressing a resource concern by improving plant quality, improving soil quality, and reducing nutrient and pesticide transport.

A High Tunnel system may be used where vegetables or other specialty crops are grown in open field conditions and extension of the growing season is needed to continue providing fresh local crops.

Participants that wish to enroll in the High Tunnel Initiative must meet all EQIP eligibility requirements including having a Farm Service Agency Farm Serial Number.  NRCS offers financial assistance for the High Tunnel to all eligible applicants.  Supporting practices for the High Tunnels are eligible for financial assistance as well.

Interested producers are asked to contact NRCS District Conservationist John Boatman at 985-331-9084 Ext. 101 or john.boatman@la.usda.gov for more information.

Click here to see the program boundary map.