The Conservation Stewardship Program

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) in Montana is part of a national initiative administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) that rewards agricultural producers for conservation efforts that enhance natural resources while maintaining or improving the productivity of their land. This voluntary program is designed to support ongoing stewardship on agricultural lands through technical and financial assistance. CSP provides participants with annual payments based on the level of conservation performance achieved—higher conservation outcomes yield higher payments. The program operates on a continuous sign-up basis; however, NRCS establishes specific application ranking dates for evaluating and approving applications. In Montana, the next ranking deadline for fiscal year 2026 funding consideration is October 31, 2025. Applications received after this date will be held for the next ranking cycle. CSP in Montana focuses on conservation activities that address regional resource concerns such as soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, drought resilience, and carbon sequestration. Two specific areas of emphasis are Resource Conserving Crop Rotations (RCCRs) and Advanced Grazing Management (AGM). RCCRs include perennial grasses, legumes, and mixed grass-forb systems suited to Montana’s climatic and soil conditions. Enhanced RCCRs may include additional growing years or substitutions of perennial crops to further improve resource conservation outcomes. AGM activities are tailored to promote sustainable livestock production while improving land health. These activities may include rotational grazing systems, invasive species control, and practices that support pollinator and wildlife habitat, wildfire mitigation, and water management. All conservation enhancements must be adapted to the specific conditions of the applicant’s operation and region. Applicants work closely with NRCS conservation planners to create a tailored conservation plan, using resources like the Montana Conservation Planning Workbook to assess and document conservation performance. The CSP contract period typically spans five years, with annual payments tied to conservation activity implementation and effectiveness. Eligibility extends to agricultural producers who operate working lands, including cropland, pastureland, and rangeland. Applicants must meet stewardship threshold requirements and be in control of the land for the duration of the contract. The program is competitive, and applications are ranked using state-specific evaluation criteria. Montana applicants must refer to the CSP Montana Ranking Questions document for guidance on how their proposals will be scored and prioritized.

Begin early by contacting your local NRCS office. Use the Montana Conservation Planning Workbook to align conservation practices with program priorities. Emphasize quantifiable conservation outcomes.