While the NRCS continuously accepts applications for enrollment into the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) (both Classic and CSP-Inflation Reduction Act [IRA]) throughout the year, interested applicants must submit applications to the local U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) field office by Jan. 26, 2024, for the CSP Classic and the CSPIRA sign up. Any applications received after Jan. 26, 2024, will be considered for future CSP application sign ups. USDA is increasing the minimum annual payment for agricultural producers participating in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) from $1,500 to $4,000 starting in fiscal year 2024. The increase addresses challenges faced by small scale, underserved, and urban producers and improves equity in the program by making participation more financially beneficial for smaller operations. The new minimum payment is available for new and renewed CSP contracts.