The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offers voluntary conservation programs that provide financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers and landowners to improve soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and overall land stewardship.
NRCS programs operate on a continuous application basis, with funding decisions made through periodic ranking periods throughout the year. Individual deadlines can be found through their websites.
Common programs include:
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)
The Kennebec County Soil & Water Conservation District does not administer NRCS funding but can provide technical assistance and help connect applicants with NRCS staff and program information.
Learn More
NRCS Maine: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/state-offices/maine
EQIP Overview: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/environmental-quality-incentives-program/maine/environmental-quality
CSP Overview: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/conservation-stewardship-program/maine/conservation-stewardship-program-in
ACEP Overview: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/agricultural-conservation-easement-program/maine/agricultural-conservation