Why does the EQIP program give points to producers who have not yet developed an RMS?
Producers who already have a RMS are rewarded with 70 points under ranking criteria #8. The purpose of ranking criteria #9 is to encourage RMS planning for those who will do a RMS under EQIP this year. They will receive points depending on what portion of their operation will be planned to the RMS level. This will encourage producers to do a RMS this year so that in subsequent EQIP years they will be ready to implement it.