Wisconsin Farmers - Apply for USDA RCPP Funds by May 16

By Blake Jackson

Wisconsin farmers and forest landowners seeking conservation funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) should apply for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) by May 16, 2025, for fiscal year 2025 consideration.

State Conservationist Nathan Fikkert announced this deadline for producer contracts, which offer payments for over 120 basic conservation practices. Last year, NRCS Wisconsin invested $5.78 million through RCPP.

“RCPP encourages conservation partners to join in efforts with producers to increase the restoration and sustainable use of soil, water, wildlife and related natural resources on regional or watershed scales,” said Fikkert. “Receiving RCPP applications early gives our staff ample time to assist our customers, address their resource concerns, and begin planning and coordinating for their land’s conservation needs.”

Applications received by May 16th will be evaluated and prioritized for 2025 funding. Interested farmers and landowners should contact their local USDA Service Center to begin the eligibility and planning process.

Fikkert also advised those considering practices requiring permits, such as manure storage or streambank restoration, to start planning and seeking permits promptly, as shovel-ready projects receive higher rankings in certain fund pools.

While NRCS accepts applications year-round, applying by the deadline ensures consideration for the next funding cycle. Applications received after May 16th will be deferred.

The RCPP program facilitates collaboration between NRCS and partners to provide conservation assistance through producer contracts or easement agreements.

Several projects have funding available for fiscal year 2025, including the American Bird Conservancy's initiative to improve oak ecosystem health in southeast Wisconsin, and the American Farmland Trust's project focusing on soil quality on protected land statewide.

Additionally, NEW Water will work on water quality and habitat improvement in the Ashwaubenon and Dutchman Creek watersheds, and Trout Unlimited will focus on cold-water stream restoration in the driftless region. These partnerships aim to enhance conservation efforts across Wisconsin.

Photo Credit: usda-nrcs