RENO, Nev.—The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) accepting applications for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). CSP helps agricultural producers maintain and improve their existing conservation systems and adopt additional conservation activities to address priority natural resource concerns.  
 

Applications for the classic CSP and Inflation Reduction Act funded versions are due before 4 p.m. on April 5, 2024. Any applications received after the deadline will be considered for funding during the next funding cycle. For both the Classic and IRA CSP, eligibility will be determined by May 3, field verification will be done by May 17, and money will be obligated by July 12, 2024.  
 

The following amounts are available under each program: 

• CSP-IRA: $775,000.00  
• CSP Classic: $1,162,000.00  
   

CSP is for all private working lands and agricultural land under jurisdiction of a tribe. This program provides annual payments for meeting certain benchmarks in the management of the land. Additional payments are earned by agreeing to complete enhancements to the land. On-farm benefits include increased crop yields, decreased inputs, wildlife habitat improvements, and better resilience to weather variables. 

In Fiscal Year 2024, the minimum annual payment for agricultural producers participating in the CSP increased from $1,500 to $4,000. 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 new and renewed CSP contracts. 

To learn more about CSP, or for general information about NRCS programs contact your local NRCS office. Office locations can be found by going to https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-basics/conservation-by-state/nevada and selecting the Nevada Service Center Map.