The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida wants to remind agricultural producers and forest landowners they are accepting applications for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). But the deadline to apply to be considered for funding in the current cycle is December 10, 2021.
CSP is for working lands, including cropland, pastureland, rangeland, non-industrial forestland as well as tribal lands. The program helps producers build on existing conservation efforts while strengthening their operations. CSP provides many benefits, including increased crop yields, decreased inputs, wildlife habitat improvements, and resiliency to weather extremes. It also encourages the adoption of new technologies and innovative management techniques.
Through CSP, agricultural producers and forest landowners earn payments for managing, maintaining, and expanding conservation activities like cover crops, buffer strips, pollinators, and beneficial insect habitats, and soil health activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land.
While NRCS does accept CSP applications year-round, Florida producers and landowners should apply by December 10 to be considered for 2022 funding.?
To learn more or to apply, contact NRCS at your local USDA Service Center.