CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM (CSP)

 The Conservation Stewardship Program helps agricultural producers maintain and improve their existing conservation systems and adopt additional conservation activities to address priority resources concerns.  Participants earn CSP payments for conservation performance - the higher the performance, the higher the payment.
 

 How to Apply
Visit your local USDA Service Center visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/getstarted. 

• To fill out form AD 1026, which ensures a conservation plan is in place before lands with highly erodible soils are farmed. It also ensures that identified wetland areas are protected. This ensures you meet conservation compliance provisions.

• To meet other eligibility certifications.

Once complete, we’ll work with you on the application, or CPA 1200 (Enter 1200  in the Form Number field and click the search button). If you are entity interested in Agricultural Land Easements then the application will be CPA 41 and CPA 41A.

While NRCS accepts program applications year-round, producers and landowners should apply by state-specific ranking dates to be considered for funding in the current cycle. Applications received after the ranking date will be automatically considered during the next funding cycle. 

Funding is provided through a competitive process. See program ranking dates. You can also apply for financial assistance and manage applications, contracts and conservation plans online through farmers.gov.