USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) recently announced that the ranking period cut-off date for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is Jan. 13. Producers interested in CSP should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline so that their applications can be considered during the first ranking period of 2012.
CSP is a voluntary program that encourages agricultural and forestry producers to address resource concerns by undertaking additional conservation activities and improving and maintaining existing conservation systems.
“CSP is a popular conservation program, and we expect to receive many applications,” NRCS State Conservationist, Karen Woodrich said. “I encourage all farmers who are interested in applying to contact their local NRCS office as soon as possible so they can meet the deadline.”
A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help potential applicants determine if CSP is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, contract obligations and potential payments. It is available from local NRCS offices and on the CSP Web page.
Visit the NRCS CSP Web site or contact Larry Starr, NRCS District Conservationist, at larry.starr@ky.usda.gov. The local conservation district office located at 118 E. Bellville St. in Marion or 360 W. Main St. in Salem, or call 965-3921, extension 3 in Marion or 988-2180, extension 3 in Salem.
