EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program)Subsidy

NRCS · Montana

Program Overview

Cost-share payments (typically 50-75%) for conservation practices: cover crops, fencing, water systems, nutrient management, erosion control, and more.

Program Details

Value Range Cost-share typically 50-75% of practice cost (90% for beginning farmers). Payment limits removed for FY2025.

Deadline Application batching periods vary by state, typically fall for next year funding

Where to Apply Your local NRCS office

Complexity Low to apply (2-page form), then NRCS develops conservation plan with you

Required Documents

Photo ID
Deed or lease
Description of conservation concerns

Forms

NRCS-CPA-1200 (Conservation Program Application)

Priority Advantages

The following groups may receive priority consideration for this program:

Beginning Farmer: higher payment rates, dedicated set-asides, fee waivers
Veteran: priority scoring in applications
Socially Disadvantaged: priority scoring, dedicated set-asides
Limited Resource: waived fees, higher cost-share rates
Organic/Transitioning: dedicated funding initiative

Pro Tip: Beginning farmers get 90% cost-share instead of 50-75%. Organic/transitioning operations have a dedicated EQIP initiative with separate funding.

Recent Awards in Montana

Natural Resources & Conservation, Montana Dept Of
$5.0M · Good Neighbor Authority

Montana State University
$1.9M · Plant And Animal Disease, Pest Control, And Animal Care

Missoula County
$1.3M · Infrastructure Investment And Jobs Act Community Wildfire Defense Grants

Montana State University
$1.0M · Payments To Agricultural Experiment Stations Under The Hatch Act

Your Local NRCS Office

NRCS Dillon Field Office
420 Barrett St, Dillon, MT 59725-3588
(406) 683-3800

NRCS Crow Agency Tribal Service Center
8645 S. Weaver Dr. Student Union Bldg, Rm 205, Crow Agency, MT 59022
(406) 638-9102

Find more offices in Montana →

Frequently Asked Questions

Who may qualify for EQIP in Montana?

Cost-share payments (typically 50-75%) for conservation practices: cover crops, fencing, water systems, nutrient management, erosion control, and more. Contact your local NRCS office in Montana for specific eligibility requirements.

How much does EQIP pay?

Value range: Cost-share typically 50-75% of practice cost (90% for beginning farmers). Payment limits removed for FY2025.. Actual amounts depend on your specific situation, crops, and acreage.

When is the EQIP deadline?

Application batching periods vary by state, typically fall for next year funding. Contact your local NRCS office for the most current dates.

How do I apply for EQIP in Montana?

Apply at Your local NRCS office. Required forms: NRCS-CPA-1200 (Conservation Program Application).

Related Programs in Montana

CSP (Conservation Stewardship Program)Subsidy

NRCS · Application periods announced by state, typically spring

ARC-CO (Agriculture Risk Coverage — County)Subsidy

FSA · Annual election, typically March 15

PLC (Price Loss Coverage)Subsidy

FSA · Annual election, typically March 15

CRP (Conservation Reserve Program)Subsidy

FSA · General signup has periodic windows; Continuous CRP is always open for priority practices

Federal Crop InsuranceSubsidy

RMA · Varies by crop — corn/soybeans: March 15, wheat: Sept 30, etc.

Learn More at USDA →

Program information sourced from USDA. Eligibility described here is general guidance only. Confirm at your local FSA or NRCS office. FarmGrant is not affiliated with USDA.