NRCS in New Jersey Announces 2nd Conservation Stewardship Program Signup for FY2026

(Hamilton Square, N.J., May 29, 2026) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications from agricultural producers and forest landowners from New Jersey for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). Agricultural producers and forest landowners looking to build on conservation efforts while strengthening their operation can apply for technical and financial assistance through CSP.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) delivers the largest long-term investment in NRCS conservation programs in decades, delivering over $34 billion through fiscal year 2031, including more than $7.7 billion for CSP. This increase in funding ensures conservation remains rooted in agriculture, with benefits to producers, communities and natural resources.

"Whether you are looking to improve grazing conditions, increase crop resiliency, or develop wildlife habitat, we can custom design a CSP plan to help you meet those goals," said Julie Hawkins, NRCS state conservationist in New Jersey. "We can help you identify natural resource problems in your operation and provide technical and financial assistance to solve those problems or attain higher stewardship levels in an environmentally beneficial and cost-effective manner."

While NRCS accepts CSP applications year-round, New Jersey producers and landowners should apply by June 30, 2026, to be considered for ACTNOW FY2026 funding.

NRCS offers CSP in all 50 states and the Pacific and Caribbean areas through continuous signups. The program provides many benefits, including increased crop yields, decreased inputs, wildlife habitat improvements and increased resilience to adverse weather. CSP is for working lands, including cropland, pastureland, rangeland, nonindustrial private forest land and agricultural land under Indian tribe jurisdiction.

Find eligible practices and practice payment amounts for New Jersey: Payment Schedules by State. Payment rates for conservation practices are reviewed and set each fiscal year for the state.

To apply for CSP, contact NRCS at your local USDA Service Center.

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