# NRCS Expands California Regenerative Funding

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) increased FY2027 funding for its Regenerative Pilot Program to $1 billion and is offering financial assistance to California producers through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). California applicants can include five additional eligible conservation practices, bundle practices in one application, and meet the CSP requirement for addressing identified critical soil and water concerns on 75% rather than 100% of their land. Applications for current-year funding are due **November 6, 2026 (9 days from October 28)**.

- The $1 billion total comprises $650 million through EQIP and $350 million through CSP; producers and organizations helping them prepare applications should account for the relevant program pathway.
- California applicants can use the expanded practice options and bundled applications, while the revised CSP threshold may broaden eligibility for producers with identified soil and water concerns.
- Organizations supporting California producers should use the November 6 deadline when planning application preparation and should confirm that proposed practices fit the program’s eligible options.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Environment
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 28, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

### Key Quotes
> The Regenerative Pilot Program focuses on supporting regenerative farming practices that improve soil health, enhance farm resilience, and boost long-term productivity.
> — Carlos Suarez, NRCS State Conservationist in California

### Sources
- [NRCS Offers Additional Practices for California Farmers Participating in the Regenerative Pilot Program | Natural Resources Conservation Service](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/state-offices/california/news/nrcs-offers-additional-practices-for-california-farmers-participating) - USDA