Signups for Conservation Reserve Program start soon

Farmers and ranchers interested in the Farm Service Agency’s (FSA) Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) can sign up March 12 through April 6. CRP has a 25-year legacy of successfully protecting the nation’s natural resources through voluntary participation, while providing significant economic and environmental benefits to rural communities across Washington state, explained FSA County Executive Director.

CRP allows agricultural producers to enroll land in 10- to 15-year contracts that help preserve environmentally sensitive land. In exchange for managing the land for environmental benefits, producers receive annual rental payments and up to 50 percent of the cost to establish approved practices. Rental rates are based on the relative productivity of the soils within each county and the average dryland cash rent or cash rent equivalent. In general, no other income can be derived from the land while under contract.

Eligibility is based on several factors. Eligible land must have been planted to an annual crop or conserving use in at least four years between 2002 and 2007. In addition, the land must be considered highly erodible, be in the state Conservation Priority Area or be in an expiring CRP contract in 2012.

Numerous resources are available to help producers make informed decisions on program eligibility. FSA county office staff can answer questions on program rules, application procedures and possible benefits. For additional information, please contact the Grant County FSA Office at (509) 754-2463, ext 2.