Published in Winter 2024
By: Will Fett, USDA NRCS
Producers and forest managers interested in taking their conservation efforts to the next level are encouraged to consider the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) through the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. This year there is approximately $29M in available funding for Oregon producers and the deadline to apply is March 29, 2024.
CSP offers technical and financial assistance to help agricultural and forest producers. The program compensates agricultural and forest producers who agree to increase their level of conservation by adopting additional conservation activities and maintain their baseline level of conservation. the minimum annual payment for agricultural producers participating in CSP has increased to $4,000 (previously $1,500). 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.
Conservation practices that are eligible include herbaceous weed treatment, precision pesticide application, improving nutrient uptake, forage testing, precision agriculture, wildlife refuge, and a variety of other conservation practice tailored to the landowner goals. Those activities that are on the Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Mitigation list may be eligible for consideration in two different funding pools as they have dedicated funding.
To get started, contact a local UDSA NRCS office and Local Service Center to develop a conservation plan that meets operational goals.