By Blake Jackson
Missouri farmers and landowners have another chance to secure funding for conservation practices with the announcement of March 15, 2024, as the second batching date for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). This program offers financial incentives for implementing various conservation activities on agricultural and forest land.
The Missouri Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) emphasizes the diverse funding streams available, catering to different producer needs. These include options for classic CSP, socially disadvantaged lands, organic farming, and more.
"With these various funding streams, we aim to reach more producers and expand the program's reach," says Acting Assistant State Conservationist Lena Hoover.
NRCS utilizes batching dates throughout the year, allowing for multiple funding opportunities beyond a single deadline. This flexibility benefits farmers and landowners seeking to enhance their conservation practices.
Additionally, minimum annual CSP payments have increased from $1,500 to $4,000 for most agricultural producers starting in 2024. This aims to address challenges faced by smaller-scale and underserved operations, promoting program equity.
The Inflation Reduction Act and Farm Bill further boost CSP funding, providing $19.5 billion over five years. This allows for supporting climate-smart practices like cover crops and improved grazing systems. NRCS recently expanded the list of eligible activities under this initiative.
Applications submitted by the March 15th deadline will be assessed and ranked based on conservation plan decisions. Eligible applications meeting a minimum threshold may be pre-approved for immediate action, while others will be batched and funded as resources allow.
CSP is a national program encouraging producers to adopt and expand conservation activities on their land. This includes practices like buffer strips, pollinator habitat, and precision agriculture applications, all while maintaining agricultural or forestry production.
Interested farmers and landowners can contact their local USDA office for application assistance. NRCS will evaluate and rank all applications received by the deadline, with funding awarded based on ranking and available resources.
For more information about NRCS programs and assistance, visit www.mo.nrcs.usda.gov or contact Missouri Programs at (573) 876-0901 or MO.Programs@usda.gov.
Photo Credit: usda-nrcs
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy