USDA Aligns National Timeline for Conservation Program Applications
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a national January 15, 2026, batching deadline for the first funding cycle of several major NRCS conservation programs.
The announcement aims to provide farmers and ranchers with a clear and consistent timeline for applying for conservation assistance.
The deadline applies to important programs including the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, Conservation Stewardship Program, Agricultural Conservation Easement Program, and Agricultural Management Assistance Program.
It also includes NRCS’s new Regenerative Pilot Program, which supports farmers through targeted assistance under EQIP and CSP.
“The NRCS team continues its commitment to America’s producers — advancing conservation, strengthening service delivery, and keeping our promise to the men and women who feed and fuel our nation,” said NRCS Chief Aubrey J.D. Bettencourt. “Our mission is clear: empower farmers, protect our natural resources, and deliver on President Trump’s ‘Farmers First’ vision.”
NRCS programs traditionally operate under continuous sign up. However, the agency is implementing a national batching period following a government shutdown to ensure farmers can access funding efficiently and fairly during the first funding round.
Producers who wish to be considered for funding in this initial batch must submit applications by January 15, 2026. NRCS noted that conservation programs will continue accepting applications after this date, but funding decisions for the first round will be based on the batching deadline.
Other NRCS opportunities will follow separate schedules. National and State Conservation Innovation Grants will be offered later in the year. Emergency programs, including PL 566 and Emergency Watershed Protection, remain available to eligible sponsors as funding allows.
Programs included in the January batching deadline are ACEP, EQIP, CSP, AMA, and the Regenerative Pilot Program. These initiatives help farmers improve soil health, protect water resources, conserve land, and strengthen long term farm sustainability.
NRCS encourages producers to begin the application process early and work with local USDA Service Centers for assistance. Additional information is available through the NRCS website.
The new batching timeline reflects USDA’s effort to strengthen conservation delivery while supporting farmers with clear guidance and reliable access to conservation resources.