By Scout Nelson
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) announces the opening of enrollment for the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (Grassland CRP). The sign-up period begins on July 14 and will remain open until August 8, 2025.
Grassland CRP is designed to help preserve long-term grass cover on marginal agricultural lands. It requires participants to maintain resource-conserving grasses and plants that help reduce soil erosion, enhance water quality, and create wildlife habitats. Unlike other CRP options, Grassland CRP allows continued livestock use, including grazing and haying, provided it follows an approved conservation plan.
The program offers participants annual rental payments and cost-share assistance for conservation practices. However, Grassland CRP does not include sign-up or practice incentive payments. The contracts for this program are long-term, lasting either 10 or 15 years, which encourages stable land use and conservation practices over time.
“Grassland CRP requires participants to maintain long-term, resource-conserving grasses and other plant species to control soil erosion, improve water quality and develop wildlife habitat on marginally productive agricultural lands. Unlike other types of CRP, Grassland CRP allows producers to use the land for livestock production, including grazing and haying, while following an approved plan.”
FSA encourages agricultural producers and private landowners who are interested in conserving their land while still using it for livestock production to consider applying. The combination of environmental benefits and financial support makes Grassland CRP a valuable option for those managing marginal lands.
Those interested in enrolling are advised to contact their local FSA office to learn more about the program and begin the application process before the August 8 deadline.
Grassland CRP continues to serve as a key conservation tool while supporting active agriculture on eligible lands.
Photo Credit:usda-farm-service-agency
Categories: Kansas, Crops