Applications for the “Wildpower Program” are now being accepted. Through a collaborative effort of Alabama Power, TVA and USDA/NRCS, property owners with transmission lines crossing their property are eligible to receive funds for brush removal and plantings to help promote wildlife. Landowners are eligible to receive a $50 per acre flat rate payment. Landowner’s may apply for summer or winter food plots, even if the summer plots have already been planted at the time of application. The Natural Resources Conservation Service will determine eligibility from a soil erosion standpoint. Applications will be taken until May 31, 2003, and must be submitted online. For more information, or to submit an application, please visit www.alabamawildpower.com.

The Lee and Chambers County SWCD is also taking applications for Alabama Electric Cooperative lines. For more information contact Lee County SWCD at (334) 745-2511, located at 600 S. 7th St. Ste. 2, Opelika or Chambers County SWCD at (334) 864-9983, located at 15053 U.S. Hwy 431, LaFayette.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or familial status, (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA' S TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.