New USDA Program Supports Soil Health Growth

Regenerative Pilot Program streamlines conservation access for all producers

The USDA is introducing the Regenerative Pilot Program to help farmers protect soil, reduce production costs, and adopt long-term conservation practices. This program follows decades of progress that began when Congress created the Natural Resources Conservation Service to improve soil and water management after the Dust Bowl. Since then, total U.S. farm production has grown significantly, even as overall farm inputs have decreased. 

Today, many producers still face barriers when applying for conservation support. Farmers report ongoing erosion concerns, and many find existing programs too complex or time consuming. The new Regenerative Pilot Program aims to remove these challenges by offering a streamlined, outcome based model that reduces administrative burdens and improves access for both new and experienced farmers. 

In fiscal year 2026, the program focuses on whole farm planning under a single conservation framework. It addresses major resource concerns such as soil health, water protection, and overall natural vitality. USDA is dedicating $400 million through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and $300 million through the Conservation Stewardship Program to support the first year of regenerative projects. 

A key feature of the program is the ability for producers to bundle multiple regenerative practices into one application. This gives farms more flexibility to plan improvements across their entire operation. It also encourages long term soil resilience and higher yields over time. 

"As the American farmers and ranchers who produce our food, fuel, and fiber know firsthand, healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy nation," said Rebecca Bartels, Executive Director of Invest in our Land (IIOL). "We welcome USDA's launch of the Regenerative Agriculture Initiative, which recognizes the key role regenerative conservation practices play not only as a foundational pillar of national health, but as indispensable tools producers rely on to stay resilient, competitive, and productive in the face of economic uncertainty and extreme weather.  

“These voluntary, science-based tools—delivered through trusted NRCS programs—are not only proven and productive, but in extremely high demand across the country. In fact, most applications from producers to utilize these programs still go unfunded due to overwhelming interest. For this initiative to succeed and to ensure every farmer who wants to steward their land has the support to do so, we must fully fund and staff the conservation programs that make this work possible. We stand ready to work with USDA to meet this moment and deliver for American agriculture.” 

To support practical, producer centered solutions, NRCS is forming the Chief’s Regenerative Agriculture Advisory Council. This group will meet quarterly to review program progress and advise on data, reporting, and future improvements. 

The announcement also opens doors for public and private partnerships. Many companies are interested in supporting natural resource conservation, and USDA will now be able to match private funds to expand opportunities for farmers. This helps stretch taxpayer dollars and increases capacity for regenerative projects. 

Farmers and ranchers interested in participating can apply through their local NRCS Service Center. Applications for both EQIP and CSP are now accepted under a single regenerative process for the 2026 funding cycle. 

Photo Credit: usda