CSP Helps Change Become a Reality
Pat Jackson has worked with NRCS for many years, using agency experts to help flesh out ideas and solve problems. He used EQIP to make improvements on his ranch, such as brush management and fencing. He is currently involved with CSP for grazing management.
Story by: Wade Day, Public Affairs Specialist, San Angelo, Texas
Pat Jackson operates roughly 8,600 acres of ranchland in Schleicher County, Texas. Low stony hills, mesquite flats, and mottes of live oaks all play together to make up a diverse landscape and a diverse operation, as well. Having Rambouillet sheep, Angora goats, commercial cattle and wildlife as part of your ranching system requires planning and knowledge, plus a willingness to get your hands dirty.
Jackson, who has operated the land since 1979, has proven he is up to the task. He knows what works for his operation but will be the first to tell you that he is still learning. This willingness to learn and adapt has made his relationship with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) even more fruitful.
Jackson has worked with NRCS for many years, using agency experts to help flesh out ideas and solve problems. He used the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) to make improvements on his ranch, such as brush management and fencing. And, he is currently involved with the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) for grazing management.
Through CSP, Jackson is incorporating wildlife refuge areas, monitoring key grazing areas, and fitting watering facilities with escape ramps. While each practice has been beneficial in some way, Jackson points to the overall effect they collectively have on both his operation and himself as the decision maker.
“CSP has helped both financially and in my management,” he said. “Really the part that sticks out is that it has given me ‘a physical something’ to look at and see the benefits. Whether it was the grazing enclosures, wildlife ramps in water facilities, or the ability to defer pastures, [EQIP and CSP] have made me a better manager because I can see the changes.”
How It Works
These changes in management and the positive effects they have on our natural resources are at the heart of what the CSP program is all about. The program represents a genuine commitment to conservation.
Based on management goals for your operation, NRCS works one-on-one with producers to develop a conservation plan. This plan enhances existing efforts and uses new conservation practices or activities to help producers take their management to the next level. Practices and activities in the conservation plan work to expand on the benefits of cleaner water and air, healthier soil and better wildlife habitat, all while improving agricultural operations.
CSP is for working lands and is the largest conservation program in the United States. The program offers annual payments to landowners and producers for implementing these practices on their land and operating and maintaining existing conservation efforts.
For landowners and producers already taking steps to improve the condition of their land, chances are, CSP can help find new ways to meet their goals.
CSP participants are seeing real results and Jackson can attest to that.
“I can see the positive impact from the changes in management,” Jackson said. “Being able to stay profitable and be a better manager of the land is hard to argue with.”
The CSP program has been a positive for Jackson and is something that he plans to continue using. He plans to continue his current management and implement more enhancements that will allow him to better manage his property.