By Jamie Martin
The USDA has launched the Regenerative Pilot Program to help producers adopt practical soil health and conservation practices with fewer administrative hurdles. This effort follows decades of progress since NRCS was created in response to the historic Dust Bowl, when national attention turned to soil protection and improved resource management. Over time, U.S. farm production has grown while total inputs have fallen, showing the importance of continued conservation efforts.
Despite this progress, many farmers still face erosion concerns and complicated program requirements. Recent USDA information shows that a significant portion of cropland experiences both water driven and wind driven erosion. The Regenerative Pilot Program addresses these challenges by offering a streamlined, outcome focused approach that removes program complexity for producers.
For FY2026, the program supports whole farm planning under one unified conservation framework. It targets key resource concerns such as soil, water, and natural vitality. USDA has committed $400 million through EQIP and $300 million through CSP to support regenerative agriculture projects during the program’s first year.
Producers can now combine multiple regenerative practices in one application, making the process more flexible and accessible. This approach is designed to help both beginning and experienced farmers strengthen soil resilience, improve yields, and manage resources more efficiently.
"As the American farmers and ranchers who produce our food, fuel, and fiber know firsthand, healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy nation," said Rebecca Bartels, Executive Director of Invest in our Land (IIOL). "We welcome USDA's launch of the Regenerative Agriculture Initiative, which recognizes the key role regenerative conservation practices play not only as a foundational pillar of national health, but as indispensable tools producers rely on to stay resilient, competitive, and productive in the face of economic uncertainty and extreme weather.
“These voluntary, science-based tools—delivered through trusted NRCS programs—are not only proven and productive, but in extremely high demand across the country. In fact, most applications from producers to utilize these programs still go unfunded due to overwhelming interest. For this initiative to succeed and to ensure every farmer who wants to steward their land has the support to do so, we must fully fund and staff the conservation programs that make this work possible. We stand ready to work with USDA to meet this moment and deliver for American agriculture.”
To ensure the program reflects producer needs, NRCS is establishing the Chief’s Regenerative Agriculture Advisory Council. This council will meet quarterly to provide guidance, evaluate progress, and help improve data collection and reporting systems.
The program also encourages collaboration between the public and private sectors. Many companies want to support conservation practices, and USDA will now be able to match private funding to expand opportunities for farmers. This model increases resources while maximizing taxpayer investments.
Farmers and ranchers interested in regenerative agriculture are encouraged to apply at their local NRCS Service Center. Both EQIP and CSP applications can now be submitted through a single regenerative application for the 2026 ranking cycle.
Photo Credit: pexels-binyaminmellish
Categories: National