The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service announced the establishment of a “batching deadline” of January 15, 2026, for the first funding round of key conservation programs.
This national batching deadline ensures producers have a clear, consistent timeline for participating in EQIP, CSP, the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, and Agricultural Management Assistance. This includes the new NRCS Regenerative Pilot Program, which provides targeted farmer-first assistance through EQIP and CSP. “The NRCS team continues its commitment to America’s producers by advancing conservation, strengthening service delivery, and keeping our promise to the men and women who feed and fuel our nation,” said NRCS Chief Aubrey Bettencourt.
NRCS programs are continuous sign-up programs, but due to the government shutdown, the agency is implementing an initial national batching period to ensure producers have access to funding and support. National and State Conservation Innovation Grants will follow later in 2026.
- NAFB