Flexible Fence and the CREP Program
Livestock waste is a predominant source of water pollution in streams and rivers running through or near farmland.
Central to "livestock exclusion" programs in water conservation efforts is the concept of flexible (or adaptive) fencing.
(Click on the slide/video menu at right to learn more...)
Photos and source information courtesy of Kathy Holm, NRCS Coordinator, Shenandoah Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D).
Download Kathy's Fact Sheet on Livestock Exclusion
Livestock waste can cause overloads of fecal coliform bacteria, either by direct discharge, storm runoff or manure spreading.
High levels of fecal coliform may reduce oxygen levels, killing fish and other aquatic life.
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)
is a voluntary program for agricultural landowners, administered by the USDA/Farm Service Agency. Through CREP, landowners and farmers can receive annual rental payments and cost-share assistance to establish long-term, resource conserving covers on eligible farmland.
However…
The rules and restrictions of this federal program do not fit the needs of all farmers and landowners. A more flexible, collaborative approach is called for…
