?CRP Grasslands recognizes the conservation value of well-managed, working grazing lands and pasture lands,? said USDA Deputy Under Secretary, Alexis Taylor. ?Small livestock operators are encouraged to contact their local Farm Service Agency Office to learn more about this program.?

Participants in the CRP Grasslands program must establish or maintain long-term, resource conserving grasses or other plant species to control erosion, improve water quality, and develop wildlife habitat on marginally productive agricultural lands. Program participants can use the land for haying or grazing while following a conservation plan in order to maintain cover. A goal of the program is to minimize the conversion of grasslands to row crops or non-agricultural uses. Participants can receive up to 75 percent of the grazing value of the land and up to 50 percent of the cost to establish cover or acquire materials to facilitate management, like fencing to support rotational grazing.

USDA will select offers for enrollment based on six ranking factors: (1) current and future use, (2) new farmer/rancher or underserved producer involvement, (3) maximum grassland preservation, (4) vegetative cover, (5) environmental factors, and (6) pollinator habitat.