Signup for CSP ends on April 8

     Iowa farmers interested in increasing crop yields, decreasing inputs, improving wildlife habitat, and increasing resiliency to weather extremes on their farms have until April 8 to sign up for the USDA’s Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).

     The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting CSP applications at USDA Service Centers statewide. USDA Service Centers are located in every Iowa county.

     Through CSP, NRCS helps agricultural producers build on existing conservation efforts while strengthening their entire operation. NRCS staff can help farmers design a CSP plan to meet their conservation goals.

     CSP is offered in Iowa through a continuous signup but announces application cutoff dates when funding allows. Iowa NRCS currently has CSP funds available in Fiscal Year 2022 in the following areas:

     • Organic farmer transition and certification.

     • Mississippi River Basin Health Watersheds Initiative (MRBI) in the Boone River-Eagle Creek Watershed.

     • Beginning Farmers and Socially Disadvantaged Producers.

     “CSP is an effective tool for private landowners working to achieve their conservation and management goals,” said Jon Hubbert, State Conservationist for Iowa NRCS. “Because it benefits the entire farm, CSP is the largest conservation program in the United States.”

     To apply for CSP or to learn more about conservation planning and programs to help you treat natural resource concerns, visit your local NRCS office or go to www.ia.nrcs.usda.gov for more information.