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Natural Resources Conservation Service

U.S. Department of Agriculture 

Young woman smiling with arms crossed on a farm, with a tractor and cultivated field in the background.
Farmer kneeling in a field of leafy greens, harvesting crops with a large straw hat and light-colored jacket, blue sky, and rows of crops extending into the distance.
Farmer inspecting row crops in a field of green plants

Mission: To help farmers, ranchers, and landowners conserve natural resources such as soil, water, air, plants, and animals while keeping their land productive.

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What is NRCS?

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a USDA agency that helps farmers conserve soil, water, and other natural resources through expert guidance and financial support—promoting sustainable, productive agriculture for future generations.

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Key Programs

Some of the most common programs include:

  • EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program) – Funding for conservation practices like cover crops, irrigation upgrades, and erosion control.

  • CSP (Conservation Stewardship Program) – Rewards and supports farmers already using advanced conservation practices.

  • AMA (Agricultural Management Assistance) – Helps with risk management, irrigation efficiency, and conservation improvements.Help farms run more efficiently and sustainably

Why NRCS Matters

NRCS helps farmers protect their land while improving productivity. By offering tools, funding, and expert support, NRCS makes conservation accessible—ensuring long-term food security, environmental health, and economic opportunity for communities.

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What NRCS Does

NRCS provides free technical guidance and financial assistance for conservation projects that:

  • Improve soil health and crop yields

  • Protect water quality and reduce erosion

  • Support climate-smart agriculture and drought resilience

  • Enhance wildlife habitat

  • Help farms run more efficiently and sustainably

We envision a stronger, more equitable Louisiana where farmers thrive, communities access fresh food, and agriculture drives opportunity and resilience.

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Unmanned agricultural drone flying over a grassy field.
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Why NRCS Matters to Louisiana

  • Funding access: Millions of dollars are available each year for eligible projects.

  • Technical expertise: Specialists help tailor conservation plans to your land and goals.

  • Long-term benefits: Healthy soil, cleaner water, stronger crops, and more resilient farms.

  • Community impact: Supports food security, local economies, and environmental stewardship.

Who Can Benefit

  • Farmers and ranchers (large and small-scale)

  • Urban and community gardeners

  • Landowners looking to restore or protect their property

  • Nonprofits and schools involved in agriculture or conservation