USDA Extends Conservation Stewardship Application Deadline to February 7

January 11, 2014

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has extended the deadline for new enrollments in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to February 7 for fiscal year 2014.

Through this program, NRCS provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to conserve and enhance soil, water, air and related natural resources on their land. Producers earn higher payments for higher performance. CSP is available on Tribal and private agricultural lands and non-industrial private forest land.

Some popular enhancements include:

  • Using new nozzles that reduce the drift of pesticides, lowering input costs and making sure pesticides are used where they are most needed;
  • Modifying water facilities to prevent bats and bird species from being trapped;
  • Burning patches of land, mimicking prairie fires to enhance wildlife habitat; and
  • Rotating feeding areas and monitoring key grazing areas to improve grazing management.

While local NRCS offices accept CSP applications year round, NRCS evaluates applications during announced ranking periods. To be eligible for this year’s enrollment, producers must have their applications submitted to NRCS by the closing date.

Learn more about CSP by visiting the NRCS website or any local USDA service center.

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Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News