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Iowa Technical Service Providers (TSP)

The Technical Service Provider (TSP) process is intended to help professionals provide technical assistance to landowners and farmers under one of the Farm Bill conservation programs.

TSP Overview

The objective is to help support the landowner and support conservation goals. Technical Service Providers (TSPs) are individuals or businesses that have technical expertise in conservation planning and design for a variety of conservation activities. TSPs are hired by farmers, ranchers, private businesses, nonprofit organizations, or public agencies to provide these services on behalf of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Additional information about TSPs, policy, certification, how to find a TSP, etc. can be found on the USDA-NRCS National Technical Service Provider website.

How to Become a TSP

Certification is dependent on meeting specific educational, experience, coursework, and plans reviewed. For more information about how to become a TSP go to the NRCS Registry website or visit the Step-by-Step Guide for Registering as a TSP webpage.

There are various forms of training available: NRCS online and in-person training, approved online training, and partnered institutions (see below):

Iowa TSP Information

Once any training is completed, TSPs must send in a copy of their certificates and/or licenses to the State TSP Coordinator. TSPs must also be able to verify their work history or education illustrating their knowledge, skills, and abilities pertaining to each category they are requesting certification.

Additional information about state laws can be located on the Iowa DNR webpage.

CPAs, DIAs, and CEMAs

Previously known as Conservation Activity Plans (CAPs), NRCS has reorganized and renamed CAPs into three new categories—Conservation Planning Activities (CPAs), Design and Implementation Activities (DIAs), and Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities (CEMAs). The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) supports payments for practices involving the development of CPAs, DIAs, and CEMAs. For more information, please visit the following links:

  • Conservation Planning Activities (CPAs), Design and Implementation Activities (DIAs), and Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities (CEMAs)
  • Iowa Conservation Practice Standards - Section IV of the electronic Field Office Technical Guide (eFOTG)

TSP Tools

Important TSP Contacts

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.