applications. Prior to these EQIP-supported activities, she applied 2 tons of lime per acre based on soil tests performed through the MSU Extension Service. All of these conservation practices were installed within two years. This allows approximately 25 head of Black Angus cattle to be over-wintered while still enabling 300+ plus bales of hay to be cut each year. Both ponds – the newer one designed and built through the EQIP Program – are stocked with Bass, Brim, and Catfish and provide a rich source of protein in addition to water for the cattle. By assisting Woodpile Ranch’s preparations for grazing and haying, EQIP enabled Onika put step 3 of her plan – building hay / equipment storage and living quarters – into action at the end of 2011. The 40’x60’ hay shed means that bales can be stored on site and the hay’s feed value protected, and the attached 24’x60’ lean-to protects valuable equipment from harsh weather. Nearly complete, a small apartment under the other lean-to will allow Onika to spend more time building the Ranch into a self-sustaining property. By using carefully selected, traditional small farm practices on the 60 acres of cross-fenced pastures, hay fields, and ponds, Onika – together with her parents Dolores and James Townsend, who manage the ranch’s day-today operations – protects the soil, water, native plants, air, and wildlife (including deer, rabbits, turtles and turkey). With a desire to share and educate, Onika has allowed friends, family, and others onto the ranch for the opportunity to learn of the services offered through the FSA and the NRCS. Onika is excited about Woodpile Ranch’s future, and her continuing partnership with NRCS and the EQIP program, which enables her to push forward her plans and keep the land producing. The Woodpile Ranch name has gotten around in their community. People call all the time when they want quality, Black Angus bulls to improve their herds. 2013 will bring the first offerings of ¼, ½ and whole meat Black Angus steers, raised the old fashioned way and sold directly to the public. In the end, Onika will have a unique property, a working ranch managed sustainably and combined with cabins that enable visitors to reconnect with the land as she has done. Aside from the Ranch, Onika (a licensed CPA) provides consulting, accounting and bookkeeping services. The programs, financial assistance and technical assistance available through the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service are invaluable to New and Beginning, Limited Resource, and Socially Disadvantaged farmers like Onika. She still has a lot to learn, but she knows she’s not alone. To see if you qualify for NRCS’s EQIP program, contact your local NRCS office. To find out more about Woodpile Ranch, call 601-774-8977 or go to www.WoodpileRanch.com.
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