NRCS Announces Application Deadline for EQIP and RCPP-LMR Sign-Ups

USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Idaho has announced an Oct. 3 application deadline for Fiscal Year 2026 Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) - Land Management and Rental projects.

"Farm Bill programs like EQIP and RCPP allow us to provide financial assistance to Idaho's farmers, ranchers and private timber producers," said Jerome Faulkner, Acting NRCS State Conservationist for Idaho.

Applications for EQIP are accepted year-round, however, only the applications received by Oct. 3 will be considered for funding during this cycle. Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed in subsequent cycles.

EQIP helps agricultural producers complete resource conservation projects and make conservation-related management changes on their farms or ranches. Conservation program participation is voluntary and helps private landowners and operators defray the costs of installing conservation practices.

RCPP is a partner-driven approach to conservation that funds solutions to natural resource challenges on agricultural land. By leveraging collective resources and collaborating on common goals, RCPP demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in delivering results for agriculture and conservation.

The Fiscal Year 2026, the Lower South Fork Clearwater River Habitat Restoration and the Blaine County Canal Company Pipeline RCPP projects are eligible for the Land Management and Rental sign-up, with applications being due by Oct. 3 if participants are located in the project area and treating the resource concerns as specified by the local partner.

More Information

To learn more about NRCS programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Producers can also apply for NRCS programs, manage conservation plans and contracts, and view and print conservation maps by logging into their farmers.gov account. If you don't have an account, sign up today.

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, personalized 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.