Applications for CSP due by March 31

The USDA announced Feb. 10 that Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) applications are due March 31. Additionally, participants with existing CSP contracts set to expire Dec. 31 this year can submit a renewal application for an additional five years, so long as those participants agree to adopt additional activities to achieve higher levels of conservation on their lands.

CSP helps participants to improve soil quality through the use of cover crops, conservation crop rotations and activities that increase soil productivity, use water wisely, improve water quality and restore wildlife habitat.

State Conservationist Roylene Rides said CSP is a program for producers seeking to achieve higher levels of conservation and adopt new and emerging conservation technologies on farms, ranches and forests.

In Washington, up to 183,500 acres will be enrolled in CSP this year.

A CSP self-screening checklist is also available at the website for interested parties.

http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted.