# USDA Issues $1.8 Billion Conservation Payments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced approximately $1.8 billion in 2026 Conservation Reserve Program and Grassland CRP rental payments to agricultural producers and private landowners. The Farm Service Agency also accepted offers covering nearly 1 million new Grassland CRP acres. The announcement describes program payments—not a contractor solicitation or award—so it does not identify a direct procurement opportunity for contractors.

- Producers and private landowners are the stated payment recipients; the announcement does not specify a contractor award, solicitation, or contract value.
- Procurement teams should distinguish these conservation program payments from USDA acquisitions when assessing agency spending and market opportunities.
- The expansion of accepted Grassland CRP acreage indicates continued program activity, but the signal provides no contractor requirements, procurement timeline, or application deadline.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Environment
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 09, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Farm Service Agency (FSA)

### Key Quotes
> This change will encourage greater growth of our cattle industry, while preserving our nation’s natural resources.
> — Brooke L. Rollins, Secretary of Agriculture

### Sources
- [USDA Announces $1.8 Billion in 2026 Conservation Program Payments | Farm Service Agency](https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/10-08-2026/usda-announces-18-billion-2026-conservation-program-payments) - FSA