January 2026 | Resources from Western Landowners Alliance

USDA Conservation Programs: January 15 Batching Deadline

• The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) set January 15 as the deadline for the first 2026 funding batch
• Programs included:
  • Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
  • Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
  • Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)
  • Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA)
• Producers should contact their local NRCS office to submit applications before the deadline
• NRCS programs operate on a continuous sign-up basis, but only January 15 submissions qualify for this first allocation

New Regenerative Pilot Program Through EQIP & CSP

• NRCS is offering targeted support for regenerative management practices
• Funding will help producers advance:
  • Soil health and carbon sequestration
  • Resilient water use and drought adaptation
  • Rotational grazing and pasture recovery
  • Reduced reliance on chemical inputs
• Applications for the pilot program are due January 15 with the other conservation programs

Farmer Bridge Assistance Program Payments

• USDA Farm Service Agency released payment rates for row-crop commodities through FBA
• Eligible crops include barley, corn, cotton, soybeans, wheat, sunflower, and many more
• The FSA will use existing producer data to provide pre-filled FBA applications
• A payment calculator is available to help estimate benefits
• USDA plans to issue FBA payments by the end of February

Continuous Sign-Up Reminder

• Applications may be accepted year-round for NRCS and USDA programs
• Submitting by January 15 ensures consideration in the first 2026 funding round
• Later applications will roll into future batching periods

Need Help Navigating USDA or NRCS Funding?

• Contact your local NRCS or FSA county office for program details
• I’m available to help with questions, applications, and strategy at any time
• Reach out to me directly for assistance

Thank you to our longtime partners, Western Landowners Alliance, for being a trusted source for industry news, updates, and need-to-know deadlines for landowners.