Agricultural producers wanting to enhance current conservation efforts are encouraged to apply for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) by March 2 to be considered for the current funding period. Applications are accepted year-round.

Through CSP, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) helps private landowners build their businesses while implementing conservation practices.

NRCS plans to enroll up to 10 million acres in CSP in 2018.

The recently updated program will help producers better evaluate conservation options and benefits.

Some benefits include

Improved cattle gains per acre
Increased crop yields
Decreased inputs
Wildlife population improvements
Better resilience to weather extremes.

Contact a local USDA service center or visit the NRCS website to learn more.