What Do NRCS’s 2026 Changes Mean for Farmers? (English/Spanish below; coming soon)
RAFI hosted a webinar on January 6 to present what we have learned thus far about the two major conservation program announcements that came out in late December: a single nationwide “batching/ranking” date for NRCS program applications — January 15, 2026 — and a new “Regenerative Pilot Program” that sets aside EQIP and CSP program funding for specific conservation practices. Because 2025 brought significant changes at USDA, it’s understandable that some farmers may feel hesitant about engaging with NRCS or may be wondering whether applying could be beneficial to your farming operation. We hope to help you understand your options, the next steps, and how best to communicate with NRCS offices so that you can approach the application process with greater clarity and confidence. and decide whether and how to move forward before the 2026 deadline.
Resources
Most current NRCS Conservation Program Application form:
RAFI Webinar Recording (English)
Q&A from Webinar (coming soon)
One-On-One Support
Located in the Southeast states or Caribbean islands, and need one-on-one assistance from RAFI or another trusted provider? Complete this intake form, and you will be referred to a technical assistance provider in your region. (Please note, due to the rapidly approaching deadline, assistance will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and we will do our best to assist you or refer you to another trusted provider. We recommend that you turn in the Conservation Program Application to NRCS by Jan 15, and we can assist you afterwards.)
RAFI Support Form: English
RAFI Support Form Español
RAFI Blog: How to Apply to NRCS by January 15 Deadline