DAVIS, Calif. -- A USDA agency here is accepting applications through Feb. 15 for special conservation initiatives in California funded through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service's EQIP initiatives aim to help producers conserve energy, address resource concerns on certified organic operations or those moving to organic, and achieve other environmental benefits, according to a news release.

Specifically, EQIP funding is offered for the On-Farm Energy Initiative, the Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative to extend the growing season into the cold months and the Organic Initiative.

For information, contact a local NRCS Service Center of visit www.ca.nrcs.usda.gov . Applications received after Feb. 15 may be considered for future funding.

-- Tim Hearden