By Blake Jackson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched enrollment for the 2025 Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), inviting landowners and agricultural producers to submit offers for the General and Continuous CRP through June 6, 2025.
As CRP celebrates its 40th anniversary, the program continues to offer critical financial support to preserve natural resources and promote sustainable farming practices.
CRP provides financial and technical assistance to landowners who volunteer to remove unproductive or marginal cropland from production and convert it to vegetative cover.
This change helps reduce soil erosion, improves water quality, and enhances wildlife habitats. The program offers long-term contracts ranging from 10 to 15 years, benefiting both the land and the surrounding ecosystem.
FSA Administrator Bill Beam shared, “With 1.8 million acres available this fiscal year, it’s crucial that we prioritize conservation efforts that address our most critical natural resource concerns.” The program not only aims to protect the environment but also supports the agricultural economy by creating more resilient farming landscapes.
The General CRP (Signup 64) is competitive, with offers ranked based on environmental benefits. Approved participants receive rental payments and cost-share assistance to establish and maintain vegetative cover.
In contrast, Continuous CRP (Signup 63) is on a first-come, first-served basis and includes specific initiatives like the State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement and the Highly Erodible Land Initiative.
The USDA is also offering re-enrollment for CRP acres set to expire on September 30, 2025, ensuring that valuable conservation efforts continue.
The program provides a unique opportunity for farmers to invest in land sustainability, support wildlife, and improve water and soil quality for future generations.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Missouri, Government & Policy