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Conservation Planning

Conservation Planning

Landowners can benefit from NRCS conservation planning in several ways. Receiving professional technical assistance will increase confidence in the design, implementation, and monitoring of a plan that will perform for landowners and their land. The productivity of agricultural land often increases

Landowners can benefit from NRCS conservation planning in several ways. Receiving professional technical assistance will increase confidence in the design, implementation, and monitoring of a plan that will perform for landowners and their land. The productivity of agricultural land often increases when conservation practices are correctly applied and managed to conserve soil, increase rangeland health, conserve water and improve water quality, and manage livestock waste.

Conservation plans can be developed to improve habitat for fisheries, upland game birds, and other wildlife. Healthy and productive lands also have less tangible benefits such as open space and scenic views. Ultimately, everyone who eats food or drinks water benefits from your conservation efforts. Another benefit to landowners who work with NRCS professionals is an increased potential for participating in financial assistance programs.

Most of NRCS’ clients are individual land owners or managers. Technical assistance, including conservation planning, is provided free of charge and at the invitation of the client.  The conservation planning process with NRCS is voluntary, it is confidential, and the plan belongs to the client. Clients implement elements of their plans, potentially with further NRCS assistance, at their own pace and in accordance with their own decisions. 

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides professional conservation planning and other technical assistance to clients. Some examples of professionals available through NRCS include agronomists, soil scientists, range conservationists, foresters, wildlife management specialists, and engineers. The NRCS maintains a network of field offices to provide direct assistance, in accordance with local needs and priorities. 



Contact

Find Your Local Service Center

USDA Service Centers are locations where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Development employees for your business needs. Enter your state and county below to find your local service center and agency offices. If this locator does not work in your browser, please visit offices.usda.gov.