State Farmers Can Now Enroll in CRP Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that the 2021 signup period for general Conservation Reserve Program is now open. Farmers and private landowners can apply for the CRP through February 12; with the enrollment period for CRP Grasslands running between March 15 through April 23, 2021. Both programs are competitive and provide annual rental payments for land devoted to conservation purposes.

"This signup for the Conservation Reserve Program gives producers and landowners an opportunity to enroll for the first time or continue their participation for another term," said State Farm Service Agency Director Sandy Chalmers. "This program encourages conservation on sensitive lands or low-yielding acres, which provides tremendous benefits for stewardship of our natural resources and wildlife."

Through CRP, farmland owners 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 who participate in CRP help provide numerous benefits to the nation's environment and economy.

CRP Grasslands 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.

Chalmers says all USDA Service Centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments.