Thursday, April 5, 2012 4:12 am
|
Pick up your application and make plans to submit your request prior to June 1-7 deadline. Remember, applications postmarked prior to June 1st are not accepted. All applicants must have a current Beef Quality Assurance certification and Premise Identification which can be obtained by contact the Cannon County Extension Office.
An important change for this year is that requests for funding will now be approved based on applicant determined priorities instead of on a first come, first serve basis.
Through TAEP, farmers can qualify for 35 or 50 percent cost share, ranging from a maximum of $1,200 to $15,000 depending on the project. This year's program will again offer cost sharing opportunities for genetics, livestock equipment, hay storage, feed storage, grain storage and producer diversification opportunities. In addition to the new approval process, other changes this year include:
• Genetics - Cost share funds are now available for Goats/Sheep Genetics in addition to Cattle Genetics.
• Hay Storage - Applicants can no longer receive funding for Hay Storage in two consecutive program years, and a maximum reimbursement amount per square foot has been established.
• Producer Diversification - All industry sectors are now eligible for 50 percent cost share.
Remember, cost quotes are required for hay storage, grain storage and livestock feed storage and must be included in your initial application. If you are interested in attending a Master Beef Producer class to qualify for the 50% cost share, check the "plan to attend" in the Master Beef producer section of the application. Follow-up by contacting the Extension Office to register for the class to be help in the Fall.
TAEP was established in 2005 and supported by the General Assembly to increase farm income by helping farmers invest in better farming practices and by encouraging diversification and innovation. Nearly 27,000 farm projects have been funded statewide since the program's inception.
On April 19, a TAEP update is planned at the Woodbury Lions Club Building beginning at 6:00 P.M.. Immediately following the update, a Beef Quality Assurance certification will be held. Many of you have received notice from the Tennessee Cattlemen's Association that your certification has expired. If you are unsure of your status, please call the Cannon County Extension Office.
Participating in the TAEP Program is available to all producers which meets the minimum requirements. Take this opportunity to make improvements in your operation. For more information, please contact Bruce Steelman at the Cannon County - University of Tennessee Extension Office at 563-2554 or 542-1364 (cell).