Agriculture In-depth-- USDA NRCS offering new program focusing on regenerative approach to conservation management

Regenerative Agriculture is a conservation management approach that emphasizes natural resources through improved soil health, water management, and natural vitality for the productivity and prosperity of American agriculture and communities. In December 2025, USDA launched the NRCS Regenerative Pilot Program, a farmer first, outcomes-based approach to conservation designed to return the agency to its core mission – helping people help the land. During the Feb. 2026 Commodity Classic Convention, U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Aubrey Bettencourt joined U.S. Ag Secretary Secretary Brooke Rollins and Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce in talking about some of the agency’s newer initiatives. In this episode, hear Bettencourt share some details of the new Regenerative Pilot Program. NRCS is investing $700 million to specifically support regenerative agriculture, including: $400 million through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP); and $300 million through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)