Agriculture and the Committee

Agriculture is the largest single land use in Albany County with approximately 64,000 acres in agricultural production.

Since its creation, Albany County Water Quality Coordinating Committee members have been proactive in working with farmers to implement best management practices that protect water quality. Thousands of dollars in conservation funds have come into the county though a variety of programs administered by the Committees’ member agencies.

Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)

CREP is a voluntary incentive program which offers funds to farms to protect water quality, soils and wildlife habitat. CREP participants place environmentally sensitive land into an approved vegetative cover. In return, farmers are paid annual rental payments and are reimbursed for establishing recognized conservation practices. There are currently 2 farms with about 40 acres in the Foxcreek watershed participating in the program. Anyone interested in the program should contact the local Farm Service Agency Office at 765-2326.