By Scout Nelson
Grasslands in the Great Plains are among the most valuable ecosystems in North America. They support grazing, store carbon, protect soil and provide habitat for wildlife. However, pressures such as cropland expansion and encroaching woody plants continue to threaten these landscapes. Conservation programs like the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) help protect these areas while allowing producers to keep grazing livestock.
Grassland CRP, launched nationally in 2014, allows working lands to remain in production under conservation-focused requirements. Enrollment exceeded 7.7 million acres by 2024. Participants sign 10–15 year contracts requiring them to maintain grass cover, follow a conservation plan, and receive annual rental payments based on local pasture rates. Some may also qualify for cost-share to help install conservation improvements.
A recent study surveyed ranchers across Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota to understand their preferences and barriers to joining Grassland CRP. The survey targeted both current participants and non-participants and received 476 complete responses. Questions covered conservation practices, program experience, attitudes, social networks and preferences for future Grassland CRP contract features.
Survey data showed that respondents manage large grazing operations and use a range of grazing systems. Many preferred higher rental payments, flexibility in conservation plans, and the ability to graze during winter.
They were less supportive of mandatory rotational grazing or longer contracts. Results also indicated that ranchers were willing to accept lower payments when programs allowed more flexible or useful management practices.
Among non-participants, the biggest barriers were lack of awareness, uncertainty about eligibility and hesitation to adopt new practices. Some cited challenges such as time-consuming applications or previous rejection of offers. Participants pointed to concerns about low rental rates and insufficient cost-sharing improvements.
The study’s findings highlight the importance of voluntary, flexible, and financially meaningful conservation programs. Shorter contracts, clear payments, and optional rather than required management practices may encourage wider adoption. Improving outreach and education can also help ranchers understand the value of enrolling in Grassland CRP.
Photo Credit: pexels-jeffrey-czum
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, General, Livestock