Legislation Aims to Expedite NRCS Approval for Farm Conservation Practices

By Andi Anderson

U.S. Representatives Abigail Spanberger of Virginia and Zachary Nunn of Iowa have introduced legislation to revamp the Natural Resource Conservation Service's (NRCS) process for approving new conservation practices on farms. The bipartisan Streamlining Conservation Practice Standards Act aims to bridge the gap between existing evidence-backed practices and emerging research and innovations, making it easier for farmers to integrate voluntary conservation programs.

Criticism has been directed at the current NRCS approval process for its sluggishness, lack of clear guidelines, and lengthy duration—sometimes taking several years for a single practice to gain approval.

The proposed bill seeks to better align NRCS best practices with evolving agricultural research. It advocates for more frequent reviews of new practices, ensuring a proactive approach to incorporating cutting-edge innovations into conservation methodologies. Additionally, the legislation promotes transparency, benefiting farmers, Technical Service Providers, researchers, and NRCS staff.

Representative Spanberger emphasized the need to cut bureaucratic red tape, emphasizing that farmers could significantly benefit from the most recent and efficient practice standards. The legislation intends to streamline bureaucratic processes and enhance transparency, enabling farmers to access the latest and most effective conservation practices.

The legislation, also supported by a bipartisan group in the U.S. Senate, received endorsements from various agriculture and climate-focused organizations, including Kiss the Ground and the Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA). It aims to clarify and simplify the process for updating and establishing new conservation practice standards, fostering transparency and accessibility.

Moreover, the Streamlining Conservation Practice Standards Act aims to incorporate innovative approaches and technologies into new and existing conservation practices. Erica Campbell, Policy Director at Kiss the Ground, emphasized the bill's potential to streamline NRCS procedures, ensuring swift funding allocation for farmers to enhance conservation outcomes and improve sustainability.

The proposed legislation endeavors to expedite the integration of innovative conservation practices into NRCS programs, enabling farmers to implement cutting-edge techniques efficiently while fostering greater transparency and accessibility in the process.

Photo Credit:usda-nrcs