News

USDA offers expanded conservation program opportunities

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service has announced several new and expanded opportunities for climate-smart agriculture. 

NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says the Environmental Quality Incentives Program has been updated to include nationwide availability and there are added flexibilities for producers to re-enroll in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). 

In addition, the NRCS has announced a new partnership with Farmers for Soil Health, an initiative of the United Soybean Board, National Corn Growers Association, and the National Pork Board to advance the use of soil health practices, especially cover crops, on corn and soybean farms.  The goal is to use cover crops on 30 million acres of corn and soybean ground by 2030, which would double the current acreage. 

For more information, farmers should contact their local USDA Service Center.