BOISE, Idaho, September 6, 2022 –The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Idaho announces a January 27, 2023, application deadline for the Fiscal Year 2023 Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).

NRCS offers CSP in all 50 states and the Pacific and Caribbean areas through continuous signups. The program provides many benefits, including increased crop yields, decreased inputs, wildlife habitat improvements and increased resilience to adverse weather. CSP is for working lands, including cropland, pastureland, rangeland, nonindustrial private forest land and agricultural land under Indian tribe jurisdiction. Additionally, existing CSP participants may have an opportunity to renew their contracts in the first half of the fifth year of their five-year contract through a competitive application process.

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

Eligible activities in Idaho, that include conservation practices, enhancements, bundled enhancements, and supplemental activity payments and equivalent payment amounts may be found at this link.

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 www.farmers.gov, you can create a secure account, apply for NRCS programs, electronically sign documents and manage your conservation contracts.

Applications for CSP Classic are accepted year-round, however, only the applications received by January 27 will be considered for funding during this particular cycle. Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed in subsequent cycles.

For more information on these programs as well as eligibility requirements, contact your local USDA service center or visit NRCS online at http://www.id.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/.

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