The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) New York announces March 13, 2026, as the second and final batching date for applications submitted for Fiscal Year 2026 funding through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program – Agricultural Land Easement (ALE). 

Through ALE, NRCS provides funds to eligible conservation partners for the purchase of conservation easements on privately owned farmland. Eligible partners include state or local agencies, non-profits and Native American Tribes that have farmland or grassland protection programs. Private landowners interested in applying for ALE must work with an eligible partner who will apply to NRCS.

ALE easements protect critical natural resources and encourage private landowners to protect farmland through the voluntary sale of a conservation easement, which limits future development. Eligible lands include privately owned cropland, rangeland, grassland, pastureland and forestlands.

For more information, please visit the NRCS New York ACEP Website or contact Peter Gibbs at peter.gibbs@usda.gov.