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NRCS-Maine announces sign-up dates for conservation program funding

Public encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible for consideration
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High Tunnel Systems and Field

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is using the expedited “Act Now” process to deliver Fiscal Year 2025 conservation contracting faster in Maine. It is currently accepting applications under “Act Now” for certain EQIP practices until March 7, 2025, for Fiscal Year (FY) 2025.

NRCS-Maine Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) Fiscal Year 2025 applications will be using Act Now for the following ranking pools:

  • FY25 MAINE ACT NOW-Climate Smart Agriculture:  Eligible practices include Conservation Cover (code 327), Conservation Crop Rotation (code 328), Soil Carbon Amendment (code 336), Cover Crop (code 340), Mulch (code 484), Residue & Tillage Management, No-Till (code 329), Residue & Tillage Management, Reduced Till (code 345)
  • FY25 Maine ACT NOW Conservation Planning Activities (CPAs), Design and Implementation Activities (DIAs), and Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities (CEMAs). 

Applications eligible for the Act Now ranking pools listed above will be accepted on a continuous sign-up basis in the order received until March 7, 2025.  Any application that ranks at or above the NRCS-Maine established minimum ranking score of 75 points will be preapproved as long as funds are available.

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has also set its FY26 application deadlines for agricultural producers and landowners seeking financial assistance opportunities to address resource concerns in Maine. While NRCS accepts conservation program applications year-round, interested applicants should apply by Aug. 22, 2025, to be considered for Fiscal Year 2026 funding for the following programs:

 

 

For more information about assistance available, contact your local USDA Service Center.

 

 

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