NRCS in Texas Accepting Applications for Conservation Programs
put Farmers First through a historic investment in conservation on agricultural lands through
USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) as a result of the conservation funding
provided by the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.
“We know that America’s producers know the land the best and are the best stewards,” said
NRCS State Conservationist Kristy Oates in Texas. “We encourage producers interested
in conserving natural resources and keeping their operations productive, profitable and
sustainable for future generations to contact their local NRCS office.”
While NRCS accepts applications year-round, interested agricultural producers in Texas should
apply by November 13, 2026, to be considered for fiscal year 2027 funding.
Programs include:
- Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): The Agricultural Land
Easement component of ACEP enables producers to protect their agricultural land from
development by enrolling it in a permanent Agricultural Land Easement. The Wetland
Reserve Easement component of ACEP helps landowners protect, restore and enhance
wetlands which have been previously degraded due to agricultural uses. - Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP): CSP helps producers build on existing
conservation efforts while strengthening their operation. - Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP): EQIP provides producers with the
technical and financial resources they need to address resources concerns on their land
including improved water and air quality, increased soil health, reduced soil erosion,
improved natural vitality and more.
NRCS is also providing additional financial assistance nationwide through the Regenerative
Pilot Program (RPP), which enables producers to implement whole-farm regenerative practices
through a single application for EQIP and CSP. RPP is part of USDA’s commitment to putting
Farmers First and advancing the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda by building a
healthier, more resilient food system.
Additionally, producers can apply to participate in a Regional Conservation Partnership
Program (RCPP) project. The ranking date for RCPP applications will be announced at a later
date.
For more than 90 years, NRCS has helped farmers, ranchers and forestland owners make
investments in their operations and local communities to improve the quality of our air, water,
soil, and wildlife habitat. NRCS uses the latest science and technology to help keep working
lands working, boost agricultural economies, and increase the competitiveness of American
agriculture. NRCS provides one-on-one, technical advice and financial assistance and works
with producers to help them reach their goals through voluntary, incentive-based conservation
programs. For more information, visit nrcs.usda.gov.