This opportunity is offered by our partners at the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maryland. It is not a Mid-Atlantic 4R program, and applications go through your local NRCS office rather than through MA4R.
NRCS in Maryland is accepting applications for its conservation programs, and producers who want to be considered for fiscal year 2027 funding should apply by November 13, 2026. NRCS takes applications year-round, so you can still apply after that date, but applications received later will be considered for a future funding cycle.
Programs open for applications
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides technical and financial assistance to address resource concerns on your land, including water and air quality, soil health, and soil erosion.
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) helps producers who already have conservation practices in place build on that work while strengthening their operation.
Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) has two parts. Agricultural Land Easements protect farmland from development through a permanent easement, and Wetland Reserve Easements help landowners protect, restore and enhance wetlands previously degraded by agricultural use.
Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) helps farmers manage financial risk through diversification, marketing and conservation.
Regenerative Pilot Program (RPP) lets producers apply for whole-farm regenerative practices through a single application covering both EQIP and CSP.
Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) allows producers to participate in partner-led conservation projects. The ranking date for RCPP applications is also November 13, 2026.
How to apply
Contact your local NRCS office to start an application or talk through which program fits your operation. NRCS staff offer one-on-one technical advice as part of the process. For program details and office locations, visit nrcs.usda.gov.
Many of these programs can support nutrient management practices like soil testing, cover crops and precision application, so they can pair well with the 4R approach on your farm.