Legislation in the recent farm bill included funding for the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), which offers farmers incentives for using sustainable agriculture practices. Specific “enhancement” projects relating to animals and livestock production include: Incorporate Native Grasses and or Legumes into 15% or more of the forage base, Grazing Management to Improve Wildlife Habitat, Monitoring Nutritional Status of Livestock and Wildlife Corridors. A complete list can be found here.

Interested farmers can call the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) through its 1-800-346-9140 (English) and 1-800-411-3222 (Spanish) toll free hot-line or contact their local NRCS staff. More information on the CSP, including a self-screening checklist, is available through the ATTRA website.

Application deadline for the 2009 calendar year is September 30, 2009.