Temple, Texas, March 7, 2023 – The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is announcing an opportunity for farmers, ranchers and producers to sign up for additional conservation programs through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law in August 2022.

Texas NRCS began accepting IRA-CSP applications on March 6, 2023. Applications can be submitted to the local Field Offices through April 7, 2023.

CSP-IRA is a little different than the CSP Classic Program, as this signup specifically targets “climate and clean energy.” CSP-IRA applications must include at least one core Climate Smart Agriculture and Forestry (CSAF) conservation practice or activity that directly improves soil carbon, reduces nitrogen losses, or reduces, captures, avoids or sequesters carbon dioxide, methane or nitrous emissions associated with agricultural productions. Facilitating practices or activities that are needed to implement the core practice may also be included.

CSP participants earn an annual payment for five years, which enables them to achieve a greater level on conservation and stewardship.

Producers should contact their local NRCS field office for additional information and guidance regarding the signup process or visit the “Getting Started With NRCS” website.