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USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service
Partnering for Conservation and Resilient Land
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) works with landowners and agricultural producers to conserve natural resources while keeping working lands productive. Through voluntary programs, NRCS provides tools, funding, and technical expertise to protect soil health, improve water quality, enhance wildlife habitat, and reduce the impacts of flooding and other natural disasters. These efforts help sustain farms, forests, and communities.
For Assistance or More Information,
Call 252-351-8041
Financial and Technical Assistance for Conservation
Access voluntary conservation programs through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). These programs offer financial and technical assistance to help conserve soil, water, and other natural resources while supporting productive and sustainable agriculture.
- Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA)
Helps producers manage risk through conservation practices that improve soil and water quality. - Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative
Supports locally led projects that promote conservation and sustainable land management. - Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Offers cost-share and technical help for on-farm projects such as erosion control, irrigation efficiency, and habitat improvement. - Agricultural Water Enhancement Program (AWEP)
Improves water use efficiency and water quality through conservation practices. - Special EQIP Initiatives
Targeted programs addressing specific resource concerns:- Air Quality Initiative
Reduces agricultural air pollutants. - On-Farm Energy Initiative
Improves energy efficiency and lowers costs. - Organic Initiative
Assists organic and transitioning-to-organic producers. - Seasonal High Tunnel Initiative
Supports high tunnel systems that extend growing seasons and improve plant quality.
- Air Quality Initiative
- National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI)
Reduces runoff and improves water quality in priority watersheds. - Conservation Technical Assistance (CTA)
Offers free planning and technical guidance for soil, water, and habitat improvements. - Grazing Lands Conservation Initiative (GLCI)
Promotes sustainable grazing and pasture management. - Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
Encourages land retirement and practices that protect water quality and wildlife habitat (administered by the USDA Farm Service Agency).
NRCS provides step-by-step guidance on program options, eligibility, and how to get started. Explore national resources for current opportunities, application details, and success stories.
Bringing Conservation Practices Home That Make a Difference
Conservation is not limited to farms and fields, every household can play a role in protecting natural resources. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) supports Backyard Conservation, which adapts proven farm-tested practices for use in home landscapes, gardens, and community spaces. Simple actions such as planting native species, creating pollinator or wildlife habitat, conserving water, and reducing stormwater runoff help protect soil and water quality while making your property more attractive, resilient, and environmentally friendly.
By practicing backyard conservation, residents contribute to the same goals NRCS promotes on working lands: healthier soils, cleaner water, stronger habitats, and more resilient communities.
Non-Discrimination Statement
The USDA prohibits discrimination in its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity, religion, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and other protected categories. For details or to file a complaint, visit the USDA Civil Rights Complaint page or call 866-632-9992.