The 2006 Conservation Security Program (CSP) sign up will be held through March 31 in 60 watersheds nationwide.
Based on available funding, CSP will be offered in 60 watersheds across all 50 states, the Caribbean and Guam — down from the preliminary selection of 110 watersheds. The sign up will only include those producers who do not have an existing CSP contract.
To be eligible for CSP, most of a producer's agricultural operation must fall within the boundaries of a selected watershed.
Producers begin the application process by filling out a self-assessment. Workbooks are available in hard copy at USDA Service Centers within the watersheds, and electronically at www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/csp/.
CSP is a voluntary conservation program that supports ongoing stewardship of private agricultural lands by providing payments for maintaining and enhancing natural resources. Payments are made using three tiers of conservation contracts. CSP will be available any year on a rotational basis in as many watersheds as funding allows.
Additional information about CSP is available from local USDA Service Centers or at www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/csp.