Each year, NRCS re-evaluates the amount of financial assistance available for each activity in each state. These evaluations consider the current costs for material and labor within the state and also the fair marketplace compensation for opportunity costs that may arise (e.g. conversion of productive land). If necessary, the amount of financial assistance is adjusted to keep pace with actual costs.

Disclaimer:  NRCS provides financial assistance for selected conservation activities.  The availability of conservation practices, conservation practice standards, practice scenarios, and the amount of financial assistance can vary between states. 

Payment Schedule Legend

The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, commonly known as the 2018 Farm Bill, is a landmark piece of legislation aimed at addressing the distinct needs and concerns of Historically Underserved (HU) classified producers, including socially disadvantaged, beginning, limited resource, and veteran farmers and ranchers. This legislation provides critical support to these producers by empowering the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to offer enhanced incentives and increased payment rates for various agricultural practices and activities.

Additionally, the 2018 Farm Bill authorizes the NRCS to provide elevated payment rates for high priority practices, source water protection, supplemental activity payments associated with advanced grazing management, and improvements in resource-conserving crop rotation methods.

• Historically Underserved (HU)
  • Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers
• High Priority Practices (Pr)
  • Directives Part 530 – Working Lands Conservation Programs
• Source Water Protection (Wp)
  • Source Water Protection
  • Directives Part 530 – Working Lands Conservation Programs
• Supplemental Payment (SU)
  • CSP Enhancements, Bundles and Supplemental Payments
  • Directives Part 530 – Working Lands Conservation Programs