USDA Opens Enrollment for Grassland Conservation Reserve Program

Producers and Landowners Can Protect Grasslands This Year

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced the opening of enrollment for its Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (Grassland CRP). The enrollment period began on July 14, 2025, and ends on August 8, 2025. This program is a key initiative by the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) designed to support agricultural producers and private landowners.

Grassland CRP is a voluntary conservation program that helps protect grasslands while allowing producers to continue activities like grazing and haying. Unlike other conservation programs, this one lets farmers and ranchers use their land for agriculture while still conserving its natural habitat.

The main goal of the Grassland CRP is to protect grasslands that are at risk of being converted into non-agricultural use. It also helps maintain plant and animal biodiversity and supports grazing operations. The program is important for preserving native grasslands and areas with shrubs and forbs, which are often threatened by land conversion.

Participants in the program can enjoy the benefits of conserving the environment while keeping their land productive. This helps balance agriculture and conservation efforts in rural communities.

The USDA encourages responsible land management that protects the environment and supports farming at the same time. This program also strengthens efforts to maintain the health of ecosystems, which benefits both farmers and nature.

Producers and landowners interested in enrolling should contact their local USDA Service Center before August 8, 2025, to get more information and apply for the program.