By USDA NRCS Vermont
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Vermont has launched an exciting opportunity for farmers and landowners to quickly and efficiently access funding to implement conservation practices on their land. The ACT NOW initiative simplifies the approval process for applications for a few common conservation practices, including cover crop, nutrient management and reduced tillage.
Applications for ACT NOW funding will open on February 2, 2025, and close on March 30, 2025. This is a limited time opportunity and funding is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t delay.
What Makes ACT NOW Unique?
The ACT NOW initiative streamlines the process, moving from application to contract obligation in just a few months. If you meet the state-established minimum ranking threshold, your application can move directly to pre-approval and funding. This means you don’t need to wait for all applications to be reviewed before hearing back about your application!
Eligible Conservation Practices
The following conservation practices are eligible for the upcoming ACT NOW funding period:
- 340 – Cover Crop: Improve soil health and reduce erosion by planting cover crops during off-seasons.
- 329 – No-Till Residue Management: Minimize soil disturbance to preserve organic matter and reduce erosion.
- 345 – Reduced Till Residue Management: Adopt conservation tillage practices to improve soil structure and health.
- 512 – Pasture and Hay Planting: Establish or improve pasture and hay fields to promote sustainable grazing and forage production.
- 590 – Nutrient Management: Optimize the use of nutrients to enhance crop yield while protecting water quality.
- 336 – Soil Carbon Amendment: Increase soil organic matter and enhance carbon sequestration.
- All Conservation Planning, Design and Implementation, and Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities (CPA, DIA, and CEMA): Plan for conservation to promote sustainable land management. Popular activities in this category include Forest Management Plans (CPA 106) and Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CPA 102)
Detailed conservation practice information can be found online at the Vermont Field Office Technical Guide.
Don’t Wait—ACT NOW
Visit the NRCS Service Center Locator at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/contact/find-a-service-center to schedule an appointment with your local NRCS field office. Their team can guide you through the application process and help determine how ACT NOW funding can best support your conservation goals.
Submit your application early to secure funding, and no later than March 30.
Together, we can build healthier soils, cleaner water, and more resilient agricultural landscapes for Vermont.