WASHINGTON – USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is accepting applications for certain practices under the continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) signup and will offer extensions for expiring CRP contracts. The 2018 Farm Bill reauthorized CRP, one of the country’s largest conservation programs.
Since passage of the 2018 Farm Bill last December, FSA has determined that a limited signup prioritizing water-quality practices furthers conservation goals and makes sense for producers as FSA works to fully implement the program.
Continuous CRP Signup
This year’s signup will include such practices as grassed waterways, filter strips, riparian buffers, wetland restoration and others. A full list of practices approved for this program is available at https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-programs/conservation-reserve-program/crp-continuous-enrollment/index
Continuous signup enrollment contracts are 10 to 15 years in duration. Soil rental rates will be set at 90 percent of the existing rates. Incentive payments will not be offered for these contracts.
Other CRP Signup Options
FSA plans to open a CRP general signup in December 2019 and a CRP Grasslands signup later.
CRP Contract Extensions
A one-year extension will be offered to existing CRP participants who have expiring CRP contracts of 14 years or less. Producers eligible for an extension will receive a letter describing their options.
Producers interested in applying for continuous CRP practices, or who need an extension, should contact their USDA service center before Aug. 23. To locate your local FSA office, visit www.farmers.gov. More information on CRP can be found at www.fsa.usda.gov/crp.