Conservation programs within USDA assist owners of America's private land with conserving their soil, water, and other natural resources. Certain programs also provide financial assistance for agricultural producers to rehabilitate farmland damaged by natural disasters and pests.
Conservation planning and technical assistance are provided for individuals wishing to develop and implement conservation plans. Conservation plans protect, conserve, and enhance our natural resources, including soil, water, air, plants, and animals.
USDA provides technical information, resources, and data tools to assist the public in addressing their conservation needs through the use of technology.
USDA addresses air issues related to wind erosion and soil loss, plant growth and yield, fire activity, human health, attainment of National Ambient Air Quality Standards, air nuisances like odors and noise, and global air concerns such as potential changes in greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
USDA provides cost share and incentive payments to farmers and ranchers to voluntarily address threats to soil, water, and related natural resources, including grazing land, wetlands, and wildlife habitat. They help landowners comply with federal and state environmental laws and make beneficial, cost-effective changes to cropping systems, grazing management, nutrient management, and irrigation.