Incentives are used to introduce new practices and to encourage individuals to utilize existing practices at their facilities. Through the Farm Bill, the Unites States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides incentive opportunities for producers. The 4R nutrient stewardship framework is consistent with revisions to the NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard currently being finalized, and results of recent USDA studies have highlighted the need to increase the implementation of nutrient management that addresses nutrient source, rate, time, and place. Therefore, funds may be available within your state's NRCS programs to assist you with 4R nutrient stewardship implementation.

Environmental Quality Incentives Program

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a voluntary program that provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers through contracts up to a maximum term of ten years in length. These contracts provide financial assistance to help plan and implement conservation practices that address natural resource concerns and for opportunities to improve soil, water, plant, animal, air and related resources on agricultural land and non-industrial private forestland. In addition, the EQIP program is designed to help producers meet Federal, State, Tribal and local environmental regulations.

Conservation Stewardship Program

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is a voluntary program that encourages agricultural and forestry producers to address resource concerns by (1) undertaking additional conservation activities and (2) improving and maintaining existing conservation systems. CSP provides financial and technical assistance to help land stewards conserve and enhance soil, water, air, and related natural resources on their land.