New NRCS Technical Standards -2003  - Talking Points

• NRCS is the lead USDA agency for providing conservation technical assistance and planning on privately owned land

• Conservation practices are used to solve a landowner’s natural resource problem with respect to soil, water, air, plants, and animals.

• Conservation Practice Standards provide a consistent manner in which practices are planned and applied – the landowner receives a product that solves the resource problem; the contractor understands his/her responsibility in providing a quality job and is not required to warrant a practice beyond the requirement of that practice; and NRCS employees are consistently providing sound treatments for soil and water natural resource concerns. 

• Conservation practice standards evolve in accordance with advancements in farming/ranching techniques and with changes in technology as documented by research, conservation field trials, and experience.

• Standards are established nationally and adapted to each state to incorporate state laws and regulations.

• Standards include:

1. Definition

2. Purpose(s) or reasons for which the practice is applied (e.g., to reduce wind erosion or to improve water quality)

3. Conditions Where Practice Applies: discusses land use and/or site conditions that affect the suitability or function of the practice

4. Criteria: discusses general measure of quality for a practice including state laws and references design tools and procedures

5. Considerations: additional details that could enhance application of a practice (e.g., delay installation until spring hatch for wildlife benefits)

6. Plans & Specifications: states that specs will be site specific and include appropriate job sheets, drawings, and documents

7. Operation & Maintenance:  includes required management actions and corrective actions that contribute to the longevity of the practice

8. References:  technical references

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