On November 8, 2024, USDA published a request for public input soliciting comments for improving the Conservation Practice Standards “to maximize climate mitigation and adaptation benefits, as supported by peer-reviewed scientific literature.” USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service supports the implementation of conservation practices through the IRA-funded Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), and Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Conservation Practice Standards are reviewed every five years and this comment period gives the public an opportunity to participate in that process. The notice in the Federal Register includes a list of questions to guide commenters. Comments must be submitted by December 23, 2024.
EQIP, RCPP, ACEP, and CSP are funded by the Farm Bill and IRA section 21001, which appropriates funds to support climate smart agricultural conservation investments.