CSP funding soars in WI: apply by feb. 9

Friday, January 5, 2024

The USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) urges Wisconsin farmers, producers, and forest landowners to apply for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) by Feb. 9, 2024, to tap into substantial funding from the Farm Bill and Inflation Reduction Act. This unprecedented funding, totaling $19.5 billion, enhances CSP incentives for adopting climate-smart practices and technologies. Notably, the minimum annual payment for CSP participants has risen from $1,500 to $4,000, aiming to boost equity and benefit smaller, underserved operations.

The Inflation Reduction Act funding encourages producers to embrace conservation activities while sustaining agricultural production. Josh Odekirk, Acting State Conservationist for Wisconsin NRCS, emphasizes that increasing the minimum payment widens participation, making CSP more accessible to a diverse range of producers. As the largest U.S. conservation program, CSP, enriched by Inflation Reduction Act dollars, extends support to more agricultural and forestry producers.

While NRCS program applications are accepted year-round, those interested in CSP must submit applications to local NRCS offices by Feb. 9, 2024, for 2024 funding consideration. All eligible applications received by the deadline will be assessed and ranked for funding in the coming year. Applications are accepted at all USDA Service Centers in Wisconsin.

CSP, providing technical and financial assistance, empowers agricultural and forest producers to elevate conservation efforts. It compensates those who commit to enhancing conservation activities while maintaining baseline levels. Examples of CSP enhancements suitable for urban, small-scale, and innovative producers include planting multi-species cover crops, natural material mulching, establishing pollinator habitats, and implementing soil health crop rotation. The program, accessible through continuous signups, yields benefits such as increased crop yields, reduced inputs, wildlife habitat improvement, and heightened resilience to weather extremes. CSP is applicable to working lands, including cropland, pastureland, rangeland, nonindustrial private forest land, and agricultural land under tribal jurisdiction in Wisconsin.

Photo Credit: usda-nrcs