Free luncheon for sand farmers offered

SIKESTON, Mo. -- A Conservation Reserve Program meeting is planned to offer local sand farmers information on how to make a profit off of sandy soils.

Cooperative professionals from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the USDA and the Missouri Soil and Water Conservation District have teamed up to offer an informational luncheon Tuesday, March 17, from 11 to 1:30 at the Clinton Building in Sikeston, Mo.

According to Private Lands Conservationist Tim Kavan, there's a CRP practice that can guarantee rental payments for 14-15 years for those whose marginal sandy soils aren't netting a profit.

"We hope farmers will join us for the luncheon and get as much information as they can to benefit their properties," Kavan said.

Kavan said lunch will be provided at the meeting, so an RSVP is requested by those who plan to attend.

For more information on successful farming in sandy soils, or to RSVP for the luncheon, contact the New Madrid NRCS Office at (573)748-5245.