Signups set for CRP, grasslands

     The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on Nov. 12 the 2021 signup periods for general Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and CRP Grasslands offers.

     General signup for CRP will be open from Jan. 4 to Feb. 12, 2021. Signup for CRP Grasslands runs from March 15 through April 23, 2021.

     Both programs are competitive and provide annual rental payments for land devoted to conservation purposes.

     “The Conservation Reserve Program and the many focused programs that come under it, like CRP Grasslands, are some of our most critical tools we have to help producers better manage their operations while conserving natural resources,” said acting state executive director Bob Wegand. “As one of our nation’s largest conservation endeavors, CRP has proven to protect our nation’s valuable resources; and next year’s signup gives our farmers and ranchers an opportunity to enroll in CRP for the first time or continue their participation for another term.

     Through CRP, farmers and ranchers establish long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees, to control soil erosion, improve water quality, and enhance wildlife habitat on cropland. Farmers and ranchers who participate in CRP help provide numerous benefits to the nation’s environment and economy. CRP general signup is held annually. The competitive general signup includes increased opportunities for enrollment of wildlife habitat through the  initiative.

     Grasslands Signup helps landowners and operators protect grassland, including rangeland, and pastureland and certain other lands while maintaining the areas as grazing lands. Protecting grasslands contributes positively to the economy of many regions, provides biodiversity of plant and animal populations and improves environmental quality. A separate CRP Grasslands signup is offered each year following general signup.

     Signed into law in 1985, CRP is one of the largest private-lands conservation programs in the United States. The successes of CRP contribute to USDA’s and its goal of reducing the environmental footprint of U.S. agriculture by half by 2050. Earlier this year, Secretary Perdue announced the department-wide initiative to align resources, programs, and research to position American agriculture to better meet future global demands.

     For more information on CRP, visit fsa.usd.gov or contact your local FSA county office.