The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has announced a national batching deadline of January 15, 2026, for the first funding round of several major conservation programs. This deadline applies nationwide and is intended to provide farmers and ranchers with a clear and consistent timeline for accessing conservation assistance.

Programs included in this batching period are the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), and the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). The deadline also includes NRCS’ new Regenerative Pilot Program, which delivers targeted “Farmer First” support through EQIP and CSP to advance regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices.

While NRCS conservation programs remain continuous sign-up, the agency is implementing this initial national batching period following the government shutdown to ensure producers have timely access to funding and technical assistance. Farmers and ranchers who apply by January 15, 2026, will be considered for the first round of available funding.

Additional programs such as National and State Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) will follow later in the year, and PL-566 and Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) opportunities remain open for eligible sponsors as funding allows.

Producers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center to learn more about eligibility, application requirements, and how these programs can support conservation goals on their operations.

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