NRCS Funding Open for Pennsylvania Landowners

Thursday, October 2, 2025

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Pennsylvania is inviting agricultural producers and private landowners to apply for fiscal year 2026 assistance through key conservation programs.

Opportunities are available under the Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program, Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), and Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).

Applications are accepted year-round; however, NRCS uses cutoff dates to evaluate and rank submissions based on potential conservation impact. For the first round of FY2026 funding, all applications must be submitted by November 1, 2025. Late applications will be considered for later rounds as funds allow.

NRCS programs provide both technical guidance and financial support to help producers implement conservation practices that enhance natural resources, strengthen land resiliency, and improve environmental outcomes on private lands.

“NRCS conservation programs are good for Pennsylvania’s natural resources and for your operation’s bottom line,” said Denise Coleman, NRCS State Conservationist in Pennsylvania.

“Whether this is your first time working with NRCS or you want to take conservation to the next level on your land, we encourage you to contact your local NRCS service center to learn more.”

Program Details

AMA supports producers in managing financial risks through diversification, marketing, or natural resource practices, with NRCS focusing on conservation aspects.
CSP helps build on existing conservation efforts while enhancing production, offering tailored plans for grazing, crop yields, or wildlife habitat.
EQIP provides cost-share for more than 170 conservation practices addressing soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and other resource concerns.
RCPP leverages partnerships to implement targeted projects, including statewide farmland preservation (Project 2712) and stream restoration in Central PA (Project 2761).

Special provisions are available under EQIP and CSP for beginning farmers, veterans, and other eligible groups, with options for advance payments or increased funding. Producers are encouraged to contact their local NRCS Service Center to learn about eligibility and program details.

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