USDA program signup began Monday

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced programs that will help producers conserve sensitive land and newer farmers to get their start in agriculture.

The Conservation Reserve Program provides incentives, such as monetary compensation, to producers that conserve environmentally sensitive land through certain methods. Cover crops are an example.

Continuous signup for the program begins June 9 for contracts of up to 10 to 15 years. USDA will allow producers with general CRP contracts expiring in September an option of a one-year extension.

Through the Transition Incentives Program, retiring farmers enrolled in CRP could also receive incentives by transferring a portion of land to beginning, disadvantage, or veteran farmers.

Signup for the transition program begins June 9.