Update, September 25, 2026: The first-round cutoff for FY2027 USDA conservation funding was September 18, 2026. You can still apply. USDA accepts applications year-round, and anything submitted now is held for the next ranking round.
If you missed the first round, the best move is to get your paperwork in order now so your application is ready when the next round opens. Funding in later rounds depends on what is left, so earlier is still better.
Programs covered by this funding cycle
- EQIP: cost-share for cover crops, high tunnels, pasture management, manure storage, and other practices
- CSP: payments for expanding conservation work you’re already doing
- ACEP: wetland and agricultural land easements
- AMA: risk management support, with a focus on urban ag producers here in New York
- GLRI, NWQI, and WLFW-GWWA: targeted funding for water quality and wildlife habitat
How to get ready for the next round
You’ll need a USDA farm number, which your local Service Center can set up if you don’t have one yet. Bring a rough idea of the practices you want to put in place. The NRCS staff there can walk you through which program fits and what the application needs.
Find your local USDA Service Center: farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator
For a plain-language overview of EQIP and how veterans can qualify for higher payment rates, see our NRCS EQIP resource page.
Know a fellow farmer veteran who’s been putting this off? Send them this post.
