Support through NRCS Initiatives

Arkansas Resource Conservation and Development Council (ARCD) is happy to partner with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to support farmers, ranchers, and landowners across the state. Arkansas boasts a rich agricultural tradition, and NRCS programs are key to sustaining that heritage by providing valuable resources and technical assistance to ensure land productivity while conserving natural resources.

What is NRCS?

The NRCS, a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides financial and technical assistance to help Arkansas farmers implement conservation practices that benefit the environment. These initiatives support long-term sustainability, improving soil health, water quality, and land productivity for future generations.

Key NRCS Initiatives in Arkansas

1. High Tunnel Systems
   High tunnels, also known as hoop houses, are one of the most popular NRCS initiatives in Arkansas. These structures extend the growing season, protect crops from severe weather, and improve yields. Many local farmers use high tunnels to grow fresh produce year-round, which not only increases income but also provides local communities with access to healthy food.

2. Cover Crop Programs
   Cover crops are essential for improving soil health, reducing erosion, and increasing water retention. Through NRCS programs, Arkansas producers can receive assistance in integrating cover crops into their farming systems, improving soil fertility and protecting the land from degradation.

3. Water Conservation and Irrigation Efficiency
   Water is a precious resource in Arkansas agriculture. NRCS programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) help farmers upgrade their irrigation systems to improve water-use efficiency. Whether it’s converting to drip irrigation systems or installing moisture sensors, these initiatives ensure that farms use water responsibly, reducing waste and supporting long-term sustainability.

4. Pollinator Habitat Initiatives
   With the global decline in pollinators, NRCS works with Arkansas landowners to establish pollinator habitats. Farmers can dedicate portions of their land to native wildflowers and grasses that attract and sustain bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, boosting crop production while also enhancing biodiversity.

5. Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
   CSP is designed for producers who are already practicing conservation but are looking to take their efforts to the next level. It rewards Arkansas farmers who implement advanced conservation methods, from rotational grazing systems to forest stand improvements. CSP helps farmers manage their land holistically, creating healthier ecosystems.

Success Stories in Arkansas

In partnership with NRCS, ARCD has helped showcase numerous producers adopt these conservation practices. One such success story is Andy Goldsmith in Sebastian County, Arkansas. Goldsmith implemented a high tunnel system with NRCS support, enabling him to grow fresh vegetables year-round, which he donates to local food drives, helping combat food insecurity in his community.

How to Get Involved

Are you a producer, landowner, or farmer in Arkansas looking to improve your land, conserve resources, and increase yields? ARCD, in partnership with NRCS, is here to help you access these programs. Whether you're interested in high tunnels, water conservation, or cover crops, there’s an NRCS initiative that fits your needs.

Contact us today to learn more about the available programs and how we can assist you in building a more sustainable and productive future for Arkansas agriculture.

Email: media@arkansasrcd.com
Phone: (479) 407-9730

Together, we can continue the tradition of stewardship that defines Arkansas’s agricultural community.