The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency has announced enrollment periods for the 2026 Conservation Reserve Program (CRP): Continuous CRP offers open February 12 through March 20, and General CRP offers open March 9 through April 17. CRP helps agricultural farmers and ranchers receive annual rental payments and cost-share assistance by placing environmentally sensitive or marginal cropland into long-term vegetative cover to improve soil, water and wildlife habitat.

Both options offer farmers a way to generate reliable conservation income while improving long-term land productivity and resource quality. Those interested in submitting offers should contact their local FSA county office before the respective deadlines. Signup is expected to be competitive.

Read the full USDA announcement to learn enrollment details and deadlines so you can decide if CRP is right for your land this year.