By Blake Jackson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Wisconsin has announced the first application batching date for fiscal year (FY) 2026 funding through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).
Producers and landowners interested in financial assistance must submit applications by Friday, October 31, 2025.
Both EQIP and RCPP are voluntary conservation programs that provide financial and technical support to help farmers and landowners implement practices that protect natural resources while maintaining productive agricultural operations.
EQIP serves as NRCS’s primary conservation program, offering assistance to adopt structural, vegetative, and management practices that enhance environmental outcomes on working lands. The program helps farmers and forest landowners integrate conservation into their operations while supporting sustainable production.
RCPP, meanwhile, emphasizes collaboration with partners to deliver conservation benefits. Assistance may be provided through producer contracts or easement agreements, with a focus on addressing regional natural resource priorities.
Although NRCS accepts applications year-round, funding decisions are only made during designated ranking periods. To be considered for the first round of FY26 funding, applications must be received by the October 31 deadline.
For more information, producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.
Photo Credit: usda-nrcs
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy