USDA’s Farm Service Agency is rolling out a pilot conservation program in five states including South Dakota. The idea for SHIPP, the Soil Health and Income Protection Program was brought to Senator John Thune from the South Dakota Farmers Union. President Doug Sombke says they see value in this program although they were hoping it would have been implemented sooner.

He says it’s important producers sign up for this program and they can do so starting March 30 at FSA offices.

Sombke says SHIPP is a great opportunity to not only help farmers economically but also give them a chance to improve the environment.

Enrollment for SHIPP is being taken from March 30 to August 21 in South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and Montana on a first come first served basis. The program is limited to 50,000 acres in the five states.