Sign-Up Period Extended for Inflation Reduction Act Funding for the Conservation Stewardship Program

HAMILTON SQUARE, N.J., May 15, 2023 – The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in New Jersey is extending the sign-up date for the previously announced Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). Applications now received by June 15, 2023 will be eligible for FY23 funding.

These funds will provide direct climate mitigation benefits for producers to advance conservation through practices like cover cropping, conservation tillage, wetland restoration, prescribed grazing, nutrient management, tree planting and more. 

In administering the IRA climate investments, USDA will also support other environmental co-benefits, including – among other things – water conservation, wildlife habitat improvements, and reducing runoff.

A complete list of eligible practices and activities can be found here: 

CSP is for working lands including cropland, pastureland, and nonindustrial private forest land. Participating farmers will further address priority resource concerns related to soil quality, water quality, air quality, and plant health. On-farm benefits include increased crop yields, decreased inputs, wildlife population improvements, and better resilience to weather variables. For producers who are already taking steps to improve the condition of their land, CSP can help them find ways to meet their goals.

NRCS accepts producer applications for its conservation programs year-round, but producers interested in CSP should apply by the ranking date to be considered for funding in the current cycle. Funding is provided through a competitive process.

Applications are available through your local USDA Service Center and online at www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted.