Cost Share Programs for Farmers

Federal Conservation Programs

Looking to make your agricultural operation more eco-friendly? The United States Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offers two fantastic programs to help: the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).

EQIP: A Helping Hand for New Conservation Efforts

  • This voluntary program provides financial and technical assistance to install conservation practices on your eligible farmland.
  • Think building fences to control livestock grazing, installing watering systems, or adopting practices like planting cover crops or creating nutrient management plans.
  • EQIP helps you make environmentally friendly improvements like reducing soil erosion, protecting water quality, and promoting wildlife habitats.

CSP: Rewards for Ongoing Conservation Champions

Are you already a conservation-minded farmer with established practices? CSP is for you! This program rewards producers who maintain and enhance their existing conservation efforts, ensuring your land and the surrounding environment stay healthy for years to come.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

NRCS has a wealth of resources to guide you through these programs. Visit their website to learn about eligibility requirements, available conservation practices, and application details for both EQIP and CSP: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/


North Carolina Cost Share Programs for Farmers

The North Carolina Agricultural Cost Share Program (ACSP) is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to farmers with a goal of improving water quality. Here's a quick breakdown of the program's key points:

  • Eligibility: Applies to landowners or renters who have been operating an agricultural business for more than three years.
  • Assistance: Offers financial and technical help to implement Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce water pollution from farms. Examples of BMPs include cover crops, long-term no-till practices, and animal waste management systems.
  • Cost-Sharing: Reimburses farmers for up to 75% of the cost of installing BMPs.
  • Implementation: Local soil and water conservation districts collaborate with farmers to develop plans and implement BMPs.

If you're a farmer in North Carolina looking to improve your water management practices and reduce pollution, the NC Agricultural Cost Share Program might be a valuable resource for you.

For more details and application procedures, you can visit the program's website 

The Agricultural Water Resources Assistance Program (AgWRAP) identifies opportunities to increase water use efficiency, availability and storage. Eligible practices are listed on the program website.