USDA Implements Program to Control Erosion, Improve Water Quality

The USDA’s Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a voluntary program that helps agricultural producers safeguard environmentally sensitive land. CRP participants plant long-term, resource-conserving covers to improve the quality of water, control soil erosion and enhance wildlife habitat. In return, FSA provides participants with rental payments and cost-share assistance.

Up to 750,000 acres of highly erodible cropland (defined as an Erodibility Index of 20 or greater) devoted to certain conservation practices may be enrolled in CRP at any time under continuous sign-up. Offers are accepted provided that certain eligibility requirements are met. Offers for continuous sign-up are not subject to competitive bidding. Continuous sign-up contracts are for a 10-year duration.

For eligibility and information about incentive payments, click here.