NRCS New Jersey Announces Conservation Stewardship Program Signup

Hamilton Square, N.J., Dec. 1,  2023 – The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in New Jersey is now accepting applications from agricultural producers and forest landowners for the classic Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). Agricultural producers and forest landowners looking to build on conservation efforts while strengthening their operation can apply for technical and financial assistance through CSP and IRA CSP.

Additional CSP funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will also be offered during this same application period. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funds will provide direct climate mitigation benefits for producers to advance conservation through practices like cover cropping, conservation tillage, wetland restoration, prescribed grazing, nutrient management, tree planting and more. 

“The Inflation Reduction Act is a once in-a-generation investment that New Jersey producers and forest landowners have access to," said New Jersey Acting State Conservationist Evan Madlinger. "This funding for climate-smart practices allows us to extend our financial and technical assistance to more clients while having a positive impact on future agricultural operations, forestland, and the surrounding environment.

In administering the IRA climate investments, USDA will also support other environmental co-benefits, including – among other things – water conservation, wildlife habitat improvements, and reducing runoff.

While NRCS accepts CSP and IRA CSP applications year-round, New Jersey producers and landowners should apply by March 29, 2024, to be considered for funding in the current cycle.

CSP is for working lands including cropland, pastureland, and nonindustrial private forest land. Participating farmers will further address priority resource concerns related to soil quality, water quality, air quality, and plant health. On-farm benefits include increased crop yields, decreased inputs, wildlife population improvements, and better resilience to weather variables. For producers who are already taking steps to improve the condition of their land, CSP can help them find ways to meet their goals.

Special provisions are available for historically underserved producers, which include those considered beginning, socially disadvantaged and limited resource as well as military veterans.

To find out more information about CSP please visit the CSP webpage. To locate an NRCS field office near you, please visit the USDA Service Center webpage.  

To apply for CSP, contact NRCS at your local USDA Service Center. Find your local Service Center at www.farmers.gov/service-locator. Service Center staff continue to work with agricultural producers via phone, email, and other digital tools. Because of the pandemic, some USDA Service Centers are open to limited visitors. Contact your Service Center to set up an in-person or phone appointment. On farmers.gov   you can create a secure account, apply for NRCS programs, electronically sign documents and manage your conservation contracts.

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