Conservation Reserve Program: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how landowners can receive annual rental payments by taking environmentally sensitive cropland out of production for conservation.
The Conservation Reserve Program is a way for landowners to receive payments for taking environmentally sensitive cropland out of production and planting resource-conserving cover instead.
Who it's for
This program is designed for landowners who have cropland that is environmentally sensitive.
What you get
In exchange for your land, you will receive annual rental payments. This money is provided to compensate you for removing the land from agricultural production and using it to plant vegetation that helps conserve natural resources.
What it costs you
When you join, you are committing to a long-term contract, typically lasting between 10 and 15 years. During this entire term, you cannot harvest crops or graze animals on the land covered by the contract.
The catch to know
The rental rates you receive are calculated based on average soil rental rates within your specific county. Because these rates are based on county averages, they might be lower than the current market cash rent you could get by leasing the land to another farmer.
How to apply
- Review the eligibility of your cropland.
- Contact your local office to discuss your specific land.
- Complete the necessary application and contract paperwork.
- Visit the official portal for more details: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-programs/conservation-reserve-program/index