GAINESVILLE, Florida, November 2, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting applications from agricultural producers and forest landowners from Florida 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.

While USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) accepts CSP applications year-round, Florida producers and landowners should apply by December 10, 2021 to be considered for funding in the current cycle.

“We are pleased to provide this opportunity to our farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners,” said Juan Hernandez, NRCS Florida State Conservationist. “Success stories from past CSP recipients are available on our website.”

NRCS offers CSP in all 50 states and the Pacific and Caribbean areas through continuous signups. The program provides assistance to improve soil, water, air, plants, animals, and related resources. CSP is for working lands, including cropland, pastureland, rangeland, nonindustrial private forest land and agricultural land under Indian tribe jurisdiction.

Special provisions are available for historically underserved producers, which include those considered beginning, socially disadvantaged and limited resource as well as military veterans.

The NRCS will be conducting a virtual workshop and overview of CSP to ag producers and non-industrial private forest landowners on Thursday, November 18, 2021. There will be two virtual opportunities to attend the workshop. NRCS will be holding the first session from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (eastern time), and the second session from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (eastern time). Contact District Conservationist Israel Vega-Marrero for the ZOOM link. The agenda is as follows:

• CSP Versus EQIP

• How to find local NRCS office
• Where to find more information about CSP and EQIP
• CSP Application
• Producer Map – information NRCS needs
• CSP Payments – minimum and maximum
• CSP Eligibility requirements
• Enhancements/Practices
• Questions from participants

To apply for CSP, contact NRCS at your local USDA Service Center. Find your local Service Center at www.farmers.gov/service-locator . If you are in Manatee, Sarasota, or Charlotte county, please contact District Conservationist Israel Vega-Marrero at 941-907-0011 ext. 3143.

0