While the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) continuously accepts applications for enrollment into the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) throughout the year, interested applicants must submit their applications to their local NRCS Field Office by Feb. 28 for the 2022-1 CSP Classic sign up.
Any applications received after Feb. 28 will be considered for future CSP application sign ups.
CSP helps farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners to build on their existing conservation efforts while strengthening their operation. CSP participants earn an annual payment for five years which enables them to achieve a greater level on conservation and stewardship.
Whether looking to improve grazing conditions, increase crop resiliency, or develop wildlife habitat, NRCS can custom design a CSP plan to help meet those goals.
For existing CSP contracts holders whose contracts are expiring in 2022, the deadline to submit those applications for the 2022-1 CSP-Renewal sign up will be March 31.
Special provisions are available for historically underserved producers, which include those considered beginning, socially disadvantaged and limited resource as well as military veterans. These producers are targeted funds.