By WADE JODUN For The Express
The Clinton County Conservation District will be partnering with the State Conservation Commission to host a workshop that will introduce farmers to the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) program.
The new round of REAP has just opened. The 2021-22 REAP program has $13 million of PA income tax credits available for eligible projects. Applications for REAP tax credits will be accepted beginning Aug. 2.
REAP allows farmers to earn Pennsylvania state tax credits in exchange for implementing "Best Management Practices" (BMPs) on agricultural operations that will enhance farm production and simultaneously protect natural resources. Eligible REAP projects are approved by the State Conservation Commission (Commission). REAP tax credits are granted by the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
Eligible applicants receive between 50% and 75% of project cost in the form of State tax credits up to $250,000 per operation. The tax credits can be used incrementally (as needed). Farmers and landowners can also elect to sell the tax credits after one year.
Tax credits for 75% of eligible costs are available for the following: Conservation/Agricultural Erosion and Sedimentation Plans, Nutrient Management/Manure Management Plans, implementing best management practices for barnyard runoff, stream bank fencing and 50-foot forested riparian buffers.
Tax credits for 50% of eligible costs are available for the following: Any Commission approved BMP or equipment necessary to reduce existing sediment and nutrient concerns. Examples include: manure storage systems, alternative manure treatment practices, grassed waterways, rotational grazing systems, no-till planting equipment, cover crops, and stream bank fencing with 35-foot riparian buffers (grassed or forested).
Here's what's new for 2021-22 REAP:
1. The time period in which BMPs are eligible for REAP tax credits has been shortened to 3 years from the date of completion/certification of the project (date of purchase for equipment).
2. Maintenance requirements for REAP BMPs remain the same, but applicants must apply for REAP tax credits within three years to be eligible. (3) Multi-species cover crops planted within a TMDL watershed are eligible for a 90% reimbursement rate. REAP defines "multi-species" as a mix that includes a broadleaf species and a grass/small grain species; and the grass species may not exceed 1.5 bushel per acre seeding rate. (4) In a TMDL watershed, cover crop roller/crimpers are eligible for a 90% reimbursement rate. (5) Manure incineration projects will be capped at $500,000 of eligible costs ($250,000 or REAP tax credits):
The workshop will be held in person on Thursday, July 22, at the Conservation District Learning Center located at 45 Cooperation Lane in Mill Hall from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Space is limited. All farmers who attend will receive 2 free soil test kits ($20 value) and will also earn a chance to win a Spraysmarter 40' Soil Sampler ($100 value).
The workshop is free. However, seating is limited. To enroll and reserve your seat, please call the Conservation District at 570-726-3798 or email Lexie Arkwright at aarkwright@clintoncountypa.com or Samantha Zaner at szaner@clintoncountypa.com.
