A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started with the Conservation Reserve Program
Enrolling in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a meaningful way to improve soil health, restore native habitats, reduce erosion, and support sustainable land management. But if you’re new to the process, understanding how to get started can feel like a challenge. Between paperwork, technical requirements, and compliance considerations, there’s a lot to keep track of.
At FDCE Conservation & Bioenergy, we’ve worked with landowners across the country to navigate CRP enrollment and ensure long-term project success. Whether you’re enrolling a small acreage or managing a large-scale restoration, we’re here to simplify the process.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what’s involved in enrolling your land in CRP, from the initial decision to final approval.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, the first step is to confirm that both you and your land qualify for the Conservation Reserve Program.
Land Eligibility
To be eligible, land must typically:
- Have been planted or considered “cropland” for at least four of the six years preceding the application
- Be capable of being planted to an agricultural commodity
- Be physically and legally capable of being maintained in a conservation cover
- Certain marginal lands, wetlands, or lands with high erosion risk may also qualify under specific CRP practices.
Producer Eligibility
You may be eligible to enroll if:
- You are an owner, operator, or tenant with control of the land for the duration of the contract
- You meet income limitations as defined by USDA guidelines
FDCE Tip: We can assist with reviewing your land’s qualifications and identifying suitable CRP practices based on soil type, topography, and conservation goals.
Step 2: Visit Your Local FSA Office
Once you’ve determined eligibility, the next step is to contact your local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. They administer CRP and will be your primary point of contact throughout the enrollment process.
At this stage, you’ll:
- Express your interest in CRP enrollment
- Discuss available CRP signup periods (General, Continuous, or Grassland CRP)
- Begin filling out the necessary application forms
- Receive guidance on potential CRP practices suited to your land
Step 3: Choose a CRP Practice
There are dozens of CRP practices available—each designed to meet specific conservation goals like erosion control, pollinator support, wetland restoration, or wildlife habitat creation.
Some common practices include:
- CP1: Introduced grasses and legumes
- CP2: Native warm-season grasses
- CP4D: Permanent wildlife habitat
- CP21: Filter strips for water quality
- CP33: Upland bird buffers
- CP42: Pollinator habitat
FDCE Tip: We help landowners understand the most beneficial and compliant CRP practice based on land conditions, goals, and USDA requirements.
Step 4: Submit Your Offer
Once you’ve selected your CRP practice and completed the necessary forms, you’ll submit your offer to the FSA. The enrollment process will vary slightly depending on the signup type:
- General CRP: Competitive process based on an Environmental Benefits Index (EBI)
- Continuous CRP: Non-competitive, available year-round for high-priority conservation practices
- Grassland CRP: Focused on maintaining grasslands and supporting grazing operations
If applying under General CRP, the FSA will score your offer and compare it to others using the EBI, which evaluates your proposed conservation plan’s environmental value.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
After submission, the FSA and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will:
- Review your offer
- Verify land eligibility through site visits or mapping
- Score your proposal (if applicable)
You’ll be notified if your offer is accepted and can then move forward with finalizing your CRP contract.
Step 6: Sign the CRP Contract
If your application is approved, you’ll sign a CRP contract, which typically lasts 10 to 15 years, depending on the practice.
The contract includes:
- Conservation plans outlining vegetation requirements and maintenance schedules
- Payment terms (annual rental payments and cost-share reimbursements)
- Management obligations and compliance responsibilities
FDCE Tip: We’ll work with you to review your CRP contract and ensure all establishment and management requirements are clearly understood.
Step 7: Begin Site Preparation and Establishment
Once the contract is in place, you’ll begin preparing your land for seeding. This often includes:
- Herbicide application to control invasive species and weeds
- Soil preparation to ensure good seed-to-soil contact
- Planting of native grasses, forbs, or other required vegetation
FDCE provides full-service CRP establishment, including:
- High-quality, USDA-compliant native seed mixes
- Proprietary BOOST micronutrient seed enhancements
- Precision seeding with custom-engineered equipment
- Turnkey maintenance plans for long-term success
Step 8: Maintain Compliance and Manage Your Land
Once your CRP land is established, regular management is required to ensure the habitat remains healthy and compliant with USDA requirements.
Common CRP management activities include:
- Periodic mowing
- Spot spraying or prescribed burns to control invasives
- Wildlife monitoring
- Mid-contract management tasks (as outlined in your agreement)
We help landowners implement a compliant management plan, and can handle ongoing maintenance for the life of your CRP contract.
Partner with FDCE for a Smooth Enrollment Process
The CRP enrollment process involves a series of steps, but with the right support, it doesn’t have to be complicated. At FDCE Conservation & Bioenergy, we provide the expertise, resources, and full-service solutions you need to get your CRP project started right, and keep it on track for years to come.
Whether you’re considering enrollment for the first time or expanding your conservation efforts, contact FDCE today. We’ll walk with you every step of the way, from eligibility checks to post-establishment maintenance.