October 18, 2023
Conserving land isn't just about preserving nature; it's also about engaging in habitat conservation planning, understanding state invasive plants, and making smart decisions to potentially benefit from programs like carbon credits and tax incentives. If you're a landowner considering the conservation route, this guide provides a step-by-step approach to navigate the complexities of applying for conservation in the U.S. You can also view state and federal funding and tax incentive programs available in your state using our conservation incentives database.
Start by understanding your primary objectives for the land:
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides a plethora of resources and guidance for landowners:
If you’re asking questions like, “What conservation easement programs are available?” or "Do I need a permit to cut down trees on my property?”, the NRCS is there to help you get answers.
Your land may already have a farm and tract number with the FSA. Your local representative will check the database and let you know whether you need to create one. If you don’t have a farm number, creating one is easy and puts you on the path to saving a lot of money!