Skip to main content
Press Release

NRCS Texas Conservation Stewardship Program application submission date approaching

Publish Date
Row of Crops Outside

While NRCS continuously accepts applications for enrollment into the Conservation Stewardship Program throughout the year, interested applicants must submit applications to their local NRCS field office by Jan. 24, 2025, for the CSP Classic and the CSP-IRA sign up. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) would like to remind those interested in consideration for enrollment into the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) that applications must be submitted to the local NRCS field office by Jan. 24, 2025, for the CSP Classic and CSP-Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) sign up.

The USDA increased the minimum annual payment for agricultural producers participating in CSP from $1,500 to $4,000 starting in fiscal year 2024.

The increase addresses challenges faced by small scale, underserved and urban producers and improves equity in the program by making participation more financially beneficial for smaller operations. 

The new minimum payment is available for all CSP contracts.

CSP provides support to agricultural and forest producers to enhance their conservation practices, offering both technical and financial assistance to help them implement more comprehensive conservation strategies. 

By participating in the program, producers may receive compensation for adopting additional conservation activities while maintaining their existing conservation efforts.

Examples of CSP enhancements that are suitable for being adopted by smaller scale and urban producers include:

  • Planting multi-species cover crops
  • Mulching with natural materials
  • Establishing pollinator habitats
  • Soil health crop rotation

How to Apply

NRCS accepts producer applications for its conservation programs year-round, but producers interested in CSP should apply through their local NRCS field office by Jan. 24, 2025, for consideration.

Applications received after Jan. 24, 2025, will be considered during future CSP application sign ups. 

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

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.