Steve Chick, Nebraska state conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, says the numbers show the state enrolled 784,377 acres of cropland, pastureland, rangeland and non-industrial private forestland into CSP. 

Administered by NRCS, CSP will add more than $8.9 million annually to Nebraska's economy from this first signup. 

"CSP provides our conservation-minded farmers and ranchers an opportunity to achieve an even higher level of conservation stewardship on working farms, ranches, and forest lands," says Chick.

Through CSP, contract holders get technical assistance and funding assistance for installing new conservation practices and adopting additional activities, and improving, maintaining, and managing existing activities.

Nationally, 10,630 contracts were obligated, enrolling over 12.6 million total acres.

"In Nebraska, there are 573 CSP contracts with farmers and ranchers who are doing outstanding conservation work," says Chick. "It is a privilege to be working with producers who are committed stewards of Nebraska's natural resources--soil, water, air, plants and animals."

Authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill, CSP offers payments to producers who maintain a high level of conservation on their land and who agree to adopt higher levels of stewardship. Eligible lands include cropland, pastureland, rangeland and non-industrial forestland. Individuals, entities and Indian Tribes operating agricultural or non-industrial private forestland may be eligible for the program.

Despite this being an extremely busy time for farmers and ranchers, Chick encourages producers to start thinking about the next CSP sign-up.

"With the 2010 CSP signup completed, farmers and ranchers are advised to start preparing for the next funding opportunity which could happen as soon as this fall."

CSP is a continuous sign-up program so producers may contact their local NRCS office for an application at any time.

 "A self-screening checklist is available to determine if CSP is right for you and your business," says Chick.

Check with your local NRCS offices or on the NRCS Web site at www.ne.nrcs.usda.gov/programs.