The deadline for Conservation Stewardship Program applications to be considered for funding this year is April 14. Through CSP, the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service helps farmers, ranchers and forest landowners earn payments for expanding conservation activities while maintaining agricultural production on their land. CSP also encourages adoption of new technologies and management techniques.
“CSP continues to be a very effective tool for private landowners working to achieve their conservation and management goals,” said Jon Bourdon, NRCS state conservationist in West Virginia. “It is the largest conservation program in the United States with more than 70 million acres of productive agricultural and forest land enrolled.”
CSP is offered in West Virginia through continuous signups. The program offers an opportunity for both agricultural and forest managers to enhance their operations while adopting conservation activities that will refine work already completed. Practices and enhancements are available to improve resource concerns, such as soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, or reduce soil erosion. Whether a person is looking to improve tree stands, plant cover crops, install pollinator habitat, establish riparian buffers, or incorporate enhanced grazing management activities, a plan can be customed designed a plan to help meet one’s goals.
While applications are accepted throughout the year, interested producers should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline to ensure their applications are considered for 2023 funding.
For additional information about CSP, contact the local service center or visit the website at http://www.nrcs.usda.gov.