Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #9 - Design-CNMP Revision

Scenario Description:

A Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) will be revised to address changes in manure management, volume or analysis, plants and crops, or plant and crop 

management or to adjust the nutrient balance on an Animal Feeding Operation (AFO). No modifications are required to engineered practices in the farmstead/production 

area. This scenario is where the services of a professional engineer are typically not required. The producer may export manure or organic products from the farm. The 

producer has an animal production area and land applies nutrients.

Before Situation:

The owner/operator of an AFO has an existing written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses the current required resource concerns and 

client objectives present on the facility production area and land application areas. The CNMP is out of date or does not meet current needs or objectives. Various levels of 

management and conservation implementation have changed on the operation. Soil tests, manure analyses, or changes in cropping system require that the nutrient 

balance be adjusted to bring the CNMP up to date.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additional applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,874.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,874.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 5 $533.60
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #25 - Design- Livestock Operations greater than 300 AU without Land Application and Minimal Engineering

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 300 animal units (AU). The producer exports (material transferred to another owner with written documentation of 

the transfer) manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial 

fertilizers). No State requirement for Professional Engineer.

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices 

installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Partial implementation of CNMP-related practices for the AFO has 

potentially occurred.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additional applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,973.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,973.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 36 $3,906.36

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 10 $1,067.20
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #41 - Design- Dairy less than 300 AU Land Application

Scenario Description:

Dairy Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently less than 300 animal units (AU) land application. The producer may export (material transferred to another owner with 

written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and 

applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Job sheets and 

implementation requirement documents found in State's eFOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be used. Design all conservation practices found in Comprehensive 

Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102) or Conservation Plan that address the planned practices for land application of manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, 

storage and treatment of animal wastes.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,779.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,779.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 60 $6,510.60

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #57 - Design- Dairy greater than 300 AU and less than 700 AU with Land Application

Scenario Description:

Dairy Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 300 animal units (AU) and less than 700 AU with land application. The producer may export (material 

transferred to another owner with written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal 

production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Job sheets and 

implementation requirement documents found in State's eFOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be used. Design all conservation practices found in Comprehensive 

Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102) or Conservation Plan that address the planned practices for land application of manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, 

storage and treatment of animal wastes.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,430.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,430.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 66 $7,161.66

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #73 - Design- Non Dairy Operation greater than 300 AU and less than 700 AU with Land Application

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 300 animal units (AU) and less than 700 AU with land application. The producer may export (material transferred to 

another owner with written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production 

area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Job sheets and 

implementation requirement documents found in State's eFOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be used. Design all conservation practices found in Comprehensive 

Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102) or Conservation Plan that address the planned practices for land application of manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, 

storage and treatment of animal wastes.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,786.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,786.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 64 $6,944.64

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 36 $3,841.92
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #89 - Design- Non Dairy Operation Less than 300 AU with Land Application

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently less than 300 animal units (AU) with land application. The producer may export (material transferred to another owner with 

written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and 

applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Job sheets and 

implementation requirement documents found in State's eFOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be used. Design all conservation practices found in Comprehensive 

Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102) or Conservation Plan that address the planned practices for land application of manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, 

storage and treatment of animal wastes.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,609.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,609.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 62 $6,727.62

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 27 $2,881.44
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #105 - Design- Non Dairy Operation greater 700 AU with Land Application

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 700 animal units (AU) with land application. The producer may export (material transferred to another owner with 

written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and 

applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Job sheets and 

implementation requirement documents found in State's eFOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be used. Design all conservation practices found in Comprehensive 

Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102) or Conservation Plan that address the planned practices for land application of manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, 

storage and treatment of animal wastes.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,942.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,942.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 76 $8,246.76

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 44 $4,695.68
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #121 - Design- Small Livestock Operations less than 300 AU without Land Application

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently less than 300 animal units (AU). The producer exports (material transferred to another owner with written documentation of 

the transfer) the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial 

fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices 

installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Partial implementation of CNMP-related practices for the AFO has 

potentially occurred.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,988.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,988.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 29 $3,146.79

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 36 $3,841.92
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #137 - Design- Livestock Operations greater than 300 AU without Land Application

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 300 animal units (AU). The producer exports (material transferred to another owner with written documentation of 

the transfer) manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial 

fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices 

installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Partial implementation of CNMP-related practices for the AFO has 

potentially occurred.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additional applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,623.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,623.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 26 $2,821.26

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 45 $4,802.40
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #153 - Design- Small Livestock Operations greater than 300 AU with Land Application and Minimal Engineering

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 300 animal units (AU) with land application and minimal engineering. The producer exports (material transferred to 

another owner with written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, 

cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers). State laws do not require a PE.

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices 

installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Partial implementation of CNMP-related practices for the AFO has 

potentially occurred.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,776.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,776.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 74 $8,029.74

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 7 $747.04
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #169 - Design- Small Livestock Operations less than 300 AU with Land Application and Minimal Engineering

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently less than 300 animal units (AU) with land application and minimal engineering. The producer exports (material transferred to 

another owner with written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area, 

cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers). State laws do not require a PE.

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices 

installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Partial implementation of CNMP-related practices for the AFO has 

potentially occurred.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,926.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,926.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 54 $5,859.54

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 10 $1,067.20
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #185 - Design- Livestock Operations less than or equal to 300 AU without Land Application and Minimal Engineering

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently less than or equal to 300 animal units (AU) with land application and minimal engineering. The producer exports (material 

transferred to another owner with written documentation of the transfer) modest amount of manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal 

production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers). No State requirement for Professional Engineer.

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices 

installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Partial implementation of CNMP-related practices for the AFO has 

potentially occurred.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Design all 

conservation practices found in Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102)or Conservation Plan that addresses the planned practices for land application of 

manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, storage and treatment of animal wastes. Management and conservation practices in the CNMP document delivered to 

the client ensure that, if implemented, the AFO will properly, within applicable NRCS standards and specifications, store, handle, and contain manure and wastewater 

materials generated by the AFO; dispose of AFO mortality; implement conservation practices to reduce soil erosion on land application areas to sustainable levels; land 

apply waste material nutrients in a manner than meets NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard technical criteria.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,709.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,709.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 52 $5,642.52

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 10 $1,067.20
Practice: 101 - CNMP Design and Implementation Activity

Scenario: #201 - Design- Dairy greater than or equal to 700 AU with Land Application

Scenario Description:

Dairy Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than or equal to 700 animal units (AU) with land application. The producer may export (material transferred to 

another owner with written documentation of the transfer) modest amounts of the manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production 

area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current. Manure not 

frequently tested.

After Situation:

Utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to design planned conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. Design and implementation will meet the general and additonal applicable criteria found in each conservation practice. Job sheets and 

implementation requirement documents found in State's eFOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be used. Design all conservation practices found in Comprehensive 

Nutrient Management Plan (CPA 102) or Conservation Plan that address the planned practices for land application of manure and nutrients, and the handling, transfer, 

storage and treatment of animal wastes.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,729.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,729.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 76 $8,246.76

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 42 $4,482.24
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #355 - Planning Dairy Greater than 300 AU, less than 700 AU with Land

Scenario Description:

Dairy Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) greater than 300 but less than 700 animal units (AU) animal units (AU). The producer utilizes manure or organic products from the 

farm or may export. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current or do not exist. 

Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. 

The owner/operator of a Dairy AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the 

facility production area and land waste application areas. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little 

documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Resource 

concerns on the AFO production area and land application areas remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area and land application 

areas. Collection, transfer, and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be 

inventoried-evaluated and planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP 

have been made to mitigate, if feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,627.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,627.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 50 $5,336.00

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 50 $4,291.00
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #371 - Planning Dairy Less than 300 AU with Land

Scenario Description:

Dairy Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently is less than 300 animal units (AU). The producer utilizes manure or organic products from the farm or may export. The 

operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current or do not exist. 

Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. 

The owner/operator of a Dairy AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the 

facility production area and land waste application areas. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little 

documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Resource 

concerns on the AFO production area and land application areas remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP Certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area and land application 

areas. Collection, transfer, and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be 

inventoried-evaluated and planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP 

have been made to mitigate, if feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,130.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,130.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 45 $3,861.90
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #387 - Planning Livestock Greater than 300 AU, No-Land

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently greater than 300 animal units (AU). The producer exports (material transferred to another owner with written documentation of 

the transfer) all manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area only.

Before Situation:

Currently the production area does not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality. Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area does not 

meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. The owner/operator of a livestock AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan 

(CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the facility production area. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on 

the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. 

Resource concerns on the AFO production area remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and transfer of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area. Collection, transfer, 

and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be inventoried-evaluated and 

planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP have been made to mitigate, if 

feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,168.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,168.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 35 $3,735.20

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 40 $3,432.80
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #403 - Planning Livestock Less than 300 AU, No-Land

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently less than 300 animal units (AU). The producer exports (material transferred to another owner with written documentation of 

the transfer) all manure or organic products from the farm. The operation has an animal production area only.

Before Situation:

Currently the production area does not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality. Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area does not 

meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. The owner/operator of a livestock AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan 

(CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the facility production area. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on 

the farm. Little documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. 

Resource concerns on the AFO production area remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and transfer of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area. Collection, transfer, 

and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be inventoried-evaluated and 

planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP have been made to mitigate, if 

feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,242.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,242.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 25 $2,668.00

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 30 $2,574.60
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #419 - Planning Livestock Greater than 700 AU with Land

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently is greater than 700 animal units (AU). The producer utilizes manure or organic products from the farm or may export. The 

operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current or do not exist. 

Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. 

The owner/operator of a livestock AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the 

facility production area and land waste application areas. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little 

documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Resource 

concerns on the AFO production area and land waste application areas remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP Certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area and land application 

areas. Collection, transfer, and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be 

inventoried-evaluated and planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP 

have been made to mitigate, if feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,914.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,914.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 50 $5,336.00

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 65 $5,578.30
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #435 - Planning Livestock Greater than 300 AU, less than 700 AU with Land

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently is greater than 300 but less than 700 animal units (AU). The producer utilizes manure or organic products from the farm or may 

export. The operation has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current or do not exist. 

Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. 

The owner/operator of a livestock AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the 

facility production area and land waste application areas. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little 

documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Resource 

concerns on the AFO production area and land waste application areas remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP Certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area and land application 

areas. Collection, transfer, and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be 

inventoried-evaluated and planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP 

have been made to mitigate, if feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,988.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,988.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 55 $4,720.10
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #451 - Planning Livestock Less than 300 AU with Land

Scenario Description:

Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) currently is less than 300 animal units (AU). The producer utilizes manure or organic products from the farm or may export. The operation 

has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current or do not exist. 

Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. 

The owner/operator of a livestock AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the 

facility production area and land waste application areas. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little 

documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Resource 

concerns on the AFO production area and land waste application areas remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP Certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP identifies the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area and land application 

areas. Collection, transfer, and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be 

inventoried-evaluated and planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP 

have been made to mitigate, if feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,678.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,678.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 28 $2,988.16

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 43 $3,690.26
Practice: 102 - Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan

Scenario: #467 - Planning Dairy Greater than 700 AU with Land

Scenario Description:

Dairy Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) greater than 700 animal units (AU). The producer utilizes manure or organic products from the farm or may export. The operation 

has an animal production area, cropland, and applies most nutrients (manure and commercial fertilizers).

Before Situation:

Currently the production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. Soil tests are not current or do not exist. 

Manure or Organic products are not frequently tested. The production area and land application areas do not meet NRCS quality criteria for water quality and soil erosion. 

The owner/operator of a Dairy AFO has not received a written Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) that addresses all resource concerns present on the 

facility production area and land waste application areas. Various levels of management and conservation implementation have occurred on the farm. Little 

documentation of the systems used and practices installed exists. The producer may or may not have a conservation plan or a nutrient management plan. Resource 

concerns on the AFO production area and land application areas remain to be addressed through the development of a complete CPA-CNMP.

After Situation:

Utilize a CNMP certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to plan conservation practices that address the handling, storage, and application of animal waste in an 

environmentally safe manner. CPA-CNMP describes the conservation practice solutions to all identified resource concerns on the AFO production area and land application 

areas. Collection, transfer, and storage of manure and wastewater systems, mortality management facilities, as well as any rainfall or runoff diversion systems will be 

inventoried-evaluated and planned for adequacy according to applicable NRCS conservation practice standard technical criteria. Decisions presented within the CNMP 

have been made to mitigate, if feasible, negative air quality impacts and improve farmland safety and security.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,086.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,086.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 65 $6,936.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 60 $5,149.20
Practice: 106 - Forest Management Plan

Scenario: #74 - FMP Less Than or Equal to 20 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land typically unmanaged or limited management activities. Typical site is approximately 1 to 20 acres in size and consists of existing unevenaged mixed species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands without an existing forest management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed 

by a management plan. A Forest Management Plan or Conservation Plan Activities (CPA), as defined by EQIP regulation, is needed to allow the producer to apply for 

financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to help implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 

381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Conservation Plan Activities (CPA). The 

CPA criteria requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Forest 

Management CPA is not considered a Forest Harvest Plan, but should complement the needs for harvest if desired by the land user. Additional CPA plan criteria is detailed 

in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,607.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,607.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 19 $1,607.21
Practice: 106 - Forest Management Plan

Scenario: #75 - FMP 21 to 100 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land typically unmanaged or limited management activities. Typical site is approximately 21 to 100 acres in size and consists of existing 

uneven-aged mixed species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on 

Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands without an existing forest management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed 

by a management plan. A Forest Management Plan or Conservation Plan Activities (CPA), as defined by EQIP regulation, is needed to allow the producer to apply for 

financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to help implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 

381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Conservation Plan Activities (CPA). The 

CPA criteria requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Forest 

Management CPA is not considered a Forest Harvest Plan, but should complement the needs for harvest if desired by the land user. Additional CPA plan criteria is detailed 

in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,368.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,368.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 28 $2,368.52
Practice: 106 - Forest Management Plan

Scenario: #76 - FMP 101 to 250 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land typically unmanaged or limited management activities. Typical site is approximately 101 to 250 acres in size and consists of existing 

uneven-aged mixed species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on 

Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands without an existing forest management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed 

by a management plan. A Forest Management Plan or Conservation Plan Activities (CPA), as defined by EQIP regulation, is needed to allow the producer to apply for 

financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to help implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 

381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Conservation Plan Activities (CPA). The 

CPA criteria requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Forest 

Management CPA is not considered a Forest Harvest Plan, but should complement the needs for harvest if desired by the land user. Additional CPA plan criteria is detailed 

in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,891.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,891.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 46 $3,891.14
Practice: 106 - Forest Management Plan

Scenario: #77 - FMP Greater Than 1000 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land typically unmanaged or limited management activities. Typical site is approximately 1001 acres or greater in size and consists of existing 

uneven-aged mixed species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on 

Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands without an existing forest management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed 

by a management plan. A Forest Management Plan or Conservation Plan Activities (CPA), as defined by EQIP regulation, is needed to allow the producer to apply for 

financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to help implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 

381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Conservation Plan Activities (CPA). The 

CPA criteria requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Forest 

Management CPA is not considered a Forest Harvest Plan, but should complement the needs for harvest if desired by the land user. Additional CPA plan criteria is detailed 

in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,135.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,135.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 108 $9,135.72
Practice: 106 - Forest Management Plan

Scenario: #78 - FMP 501 to 1000 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land typically unmanaged or limited management activities. Typical site is approximately 501 to 1000 acres in size and consists of existing 

uneven-aged mixed species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on 

Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands without an existing forest management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed 

by a management plan. A Forest Management Plan or Conservation Plan Activities (CPA), as defined by EQIP regulation, is needed to allow the producer to apply for 

financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to help implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 

381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Conservation Plan Activities (CPA). The 

CPA criteria requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Forest 

Management CPA is not considered a Forest Harvest Plan, but should complement the needs for harvest if desired by the land user. Additional CPA plan criteria is detailed 

in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,020.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,020.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 83 $7,020.97
Practice: 106 - Forest Management Plan

Scenario: #79 - FMP 251 to 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land typically unmanaged or limited management activities. Typical site is approximately 251 to 500 acres in size and consists of existing 

uneven-aged mixed species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on 

Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands without an existing forest management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed 

by a management plan. A Forest Management Plan or Conservation Plan Activities (CPA), as defined by EQIP regulation, is needed to allow the producer to apply for 

financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to help implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 

381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Conservation Activity Plan (CPA). The CPA 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Forest Management 

CPA is not considered a Forest Harvest Plan, but should complement the needs for harvest if desired by the land user. Additional CPA plan requirements are detailed in 

the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,752.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,752.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 68 $5,752.12
Practice: 110 - Grazing Management Plan

Scenario: #75 - Conservation Plan for Grazed Lands 101 to 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Site specific conservation plan for grazed lands for an agricultural operation with 101 to 500 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: Soil erosion, water quality, fish 

and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of management of livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently manages animals without a plan 

to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife 

opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and idenify problems and opportunities, 

determine objectives, inventory resources, analyze resource data, formulate alternatives, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions to meet objectives.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) plan for grazing lands. The 

CPA requires the plan to meet the General Requirements (steps 1-7) of the planning process. Step 1- Identify Problems and Opportunities, Step 2- Determine Objectives, 

Step 3-Inventory Resources, Step 4-Analyze Resource Data, Step 5-Formulate Alternatives, Step 6-Evaluate Alternatives, and Step 7-Make Decisions (Select Preferrred 

Alternative).

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,136.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,136.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 30 $3,136.20
Practice: 110 - Grazing Management Plan

Scenario: #91 - Conservation Plan for Grazed Lands <100 acres.

Scenario Description:

Site specific conservation plan for agricultural operation with less than 100 acres grazed land. The plan will address the following natural resource concerns: soil erosion, 

water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of management of livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently manages animals without a plan 

to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife 

opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and identify problems and opportunities, 

determine objectives, inventory resources, analyze resource data, formulate alternatives, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions to meet objectives.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) plan for grazing lands. The 

CPA requires the plan to meet the General Requirements (steps 1-7) of the planning process. Step 1- Identify Problems and Opportunities, Step 2- Determine Objectives, 

Step 3-Inventory Resources, Step 4-Analyze Resource Data, Step 5-Formulate Alternatives, Step 6-Evaluate Alternatives, and Step 7-Make Decisions (Select Preferred 

Alternative). The plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The CPA meets the basic 

quality criteria for the CPA 110 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,508.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,508.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 24 $2,508.96
Practice: 110 - Grazing Management Plan

Scenario: #107 - Conservation Plan for Grazed Lands 501 to 1,500 acres

Scenario Description:

Site specific conservation plan for grazed lands for an agricultural operation with 501 to 1,500 acres of grazed land. The plan will address the following natural resource 

concerns: soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of management of livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently manages animals without a plan 

to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife 

opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and idenify problems and opportunities, 

determine objectives, inventory resources, analyze resource data, formulate alternatives, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions to meet objectives.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) plan for grazing lands. The 

CPA requires the plan to meet the General Requirements (steps 1-7) of the planning process. Step 1- Identify Problems and Opportunities, Step 2- Determine Objectives, 

Step 3-Inventory Resources, Step 4-Analyze Resource Data, Step 5-Formulate Alternatives, Step 6-Evaluate Alternatives, and Step 7-Make Decisions (Select Preferrred 

Alternative). The plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The CPA meets the basic 

quality criteria for the CPA 110 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,763.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,763.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 36 $3,763.44
Practice: 110 - Grazing Management Plan

Scenario: #123 - Conservation Plan for Grazed Lands 1,501 to 5,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Site specific conservation plan for grazed lands for an agricultural operation with 1,501 to 5,000 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be 

addressed: soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of management of livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently manages animals without a plan 

to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife 

opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and idenify problems and opportunities, 

determine objectives, inventory resources, analyze resource data, formulate alternatives, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions to meet objectives.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) plan for grazing lands. The 

CPA requires the plan to meet the General Requirements (steps 1-7) of the planning process. Step 1- Identify Problems and Opportunities, Step 2- Determine Objectives, 

Step 3-Inventory Resources, Step 4-Analyze Resource Data, Step 5-Formulate Alternatives, Step 6-Evaluate Alternatives, and Step 7-Make Decisions (Select Preferrred 

Alternative). The plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The CPA meets the basic 

quality criteria for the CPA 110 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,390.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,390.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 42 $4,390.68
Practice: 110 - Grazing Management Plan

Scenario: #139 - Conservation Plan for Grazed Lands 5,001 to 10,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Site specific conservation plan for grazed lands for an agricultural operation with 5,001 to 10,000 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be 

addressed: soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of management of livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently manages animals without a plan 

to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife 

opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and idenify problems and opportunities, 

determine objectives, inventory resources, analyze resource data, formulate alternatives, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions to meet objectives.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) plan for grazing lands. The 

CPA requires the plan to meet the General Requirements (steps 1-7) of the planning process. Step 1- Identify Problems and Opportunities, Step 2- Determine Objectives, 

Step 3-Inventory Resources, Step 4-Analyze Resource Data, Step 5-Formulate Alternatives, Step 6-Evaluate Alternatives, and Step 7-Make Decisions (Select Preferrred 

Alternative). The plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The CPA meets the basic 

quality criteria for the CPA 110 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,017.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,017.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 48 $5,017.92
Practice: 110 - Grazing Management Plan

Scenario: #155 - Conservation Plan for Grazed Lands >10,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Site specific conservation plan for grazed lands for an agricultural operation with greater than 10,000 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be 

addressed: soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of management of livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently manages animals without a plan 

to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife 

opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and identify problems and opportunities, 

determine objectives, inventory resources, analyze resource data, formulate alternatives, evaluate alternatives, and make decisions to meet objectives.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) plan for grazing lands. The 

CPA requires the plan to meet the General Requirements (steps 1-7) of the planning process. Step 1- Identify Problems and Opportunities, Step 2- Determine Objectives, 

Step 3-Inventory Resources, Step 4-Analyze Resource Data, Step 5-Formulate Alternatives, Step 6-Evaluate Alternatives, and Step 7-Make Decisions (Select Preferred 

Alternative). The plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The CPA meets the basic 

quality criteria for the CPA 110 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,645.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,645.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 54 $5,645.16
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #89 - Organic Crops + Livestock, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on 

soil texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,917.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,917.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 34 $2,917.88
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #105 - Organic Crops, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,746.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,746.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 32 $2,746.24
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #121 - Small Farm

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for a small farm (<10 acres).

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,716.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,716.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 20 $1,716.40
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #137 - Organic Crops + Livestock, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on 

soil texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,089.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,089.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 36 $3,089.52
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #153 - Crops+Livestock, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for crops 

and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,574.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,574.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 30 $2,574.60
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #169 - Crops+Livestock, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

crops and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil 

texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,059.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,059.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 24 $2,059.68
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #185 - Organic Crops, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,231.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,231.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 26 $2,231.32
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #201 - Crops, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for crops. 

A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, topography, and 

cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,402.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,402.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 28 $2,402.96
Practice: 116 - Soil Health Management Plan

Scenario: #217 - Crops, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages without an existing soil health management plan, or with an outdated plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a 

management plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of a Soil Health Conservation Plan Activity (CPA). The CPA criteria 

requires the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,888.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,888.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 22 $1,888.04
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #9 - High Complexity, 6+ Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose several variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that cannot be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or 

manual calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???High Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that 

varies more than about 30% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit 

requires substantive changes to two or more of the electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Complex analysis to evaluate alternatives is required to 

confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a detailed simulation is required to determine systems sizing and layout.) ???High 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: comprehensive lighting system redesign; radiant heating systems; convert to tunnel ventilation; or convert 

to bench heating. Each ???Design??? indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are 

contracted. If more than five practices are contracted, then, at a minimum, ???6+ Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. Use this scenario if at least one 

design is deemed high complexity. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA 

documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,048.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,048.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 78 $8,324.16

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 15 $770.25

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 6 $205.20

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 24 $1,749.36
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #25 - Medium Complexity, 6+ Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose some variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that can be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or manual 

calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???Medium Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that varies 

more than about 10% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit requires 

substantive changes to either electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Analysis beyond the scope of NRCS methodology to evaluate alternatives is 

required to confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a simplified heat transfer model to determine heating, ventilation, and 

cooling loads may be required if existing device capacity cannot be estimated.) ???Medium Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: change of 

lighting fixture counts or layout; wall insulation; grain dryers; add reverse osmosis to syrup production; or add evaporative cooling systems (cooling cells). Each 

???Design??? indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. If more than five 

practices are contracted, then, at a minimum, ???6+ Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. If at least 1 scenario is more complex than indicated herein, use 

an alternate scenario for contracting. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA 

documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,537.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,537.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 66 $7,043.52

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 14 $718.90

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 5 $171.00

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 22 $1,603.58
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #41 - Low Complexity, 6+ Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for one-to-one device 

retrofits. The scenario(s) may provide for a new component to modify the operation of an existing device (e.g., timer to reduce run-time). Three factors typically indicate a 

???Low Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) New devices maintain output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) of the old devices within a roughly 10% range. 2) New devices are installed 

in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit does not require substantive changes to electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. ???Low 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: lamp or fixture upgrades; attic insulation; fans; or washer-extractors. Each ???Design??? indicates that 

new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. If more than five practices are contracted, 

then, at a minimum, ???6+ Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. If at least 1 scenario is more complex than indicated herein, use an alternate scenario for 

contracting. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA documents: a) the client???s 

final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas; and c) design deliverables described in the associated NRCS 

Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,025.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,025.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 54 $5,762.88

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 13 $667.55

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 20 $1,457.80
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #57 - High Complexity, 4-5 Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose several variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that cannot be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or 

manual calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???High Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that 

varies more than about 30% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit 

requires substantive changes to two or more of the electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Complex analysis to evaluate alternatives is required to 

confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a detailed simulation is required to determine systems sizing and layout.) ???High 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: comprehensive lighting system redesign; radiant heating systems; convert to tunnel ventilation; or convert 

to bench heating. Each ???Design??? indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are 

contracted. If more than three practices are contracted, then, at a minimum, ???4-5 Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. Use this scenario if at least one 

design is deemed high complexity. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA 

documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,391.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,391.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 66 $7,043.52

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 14 $718.90

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 5 $171.00

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 20 $1,457.80
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #73 - Medium Complexity, 4-5 Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose some variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that can be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or manual 

calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???Medium Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that varies 

more than about 10% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit requires 

substantive changes to either electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Analysis beyond the scope of NRCS methodology to evaluate alternatives is 

required to confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a simplified heat transfer model to determine heating, ventilation, and 

cooling loads may be required if existing device capacity cannot be estimated.) ???Medium Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: change of 

lighting fixture counts or layout; wall insulation; grain dryers; add reverse osmosis to syrup production; or add evaporative cooling systems (cooling cells). Each 

???Design??? indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. If more than three 

practices are contracted, then, at a minimum, ???4-5 Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. If at least 1 scenario is more complex than indicated herein, use 

an alternate scenario for contracting. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA 

documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,879.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,879.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 54 $5,762.88

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 13 $667.55

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 18 $1,312.02
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #89 - Low Complexity, 4-5 Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for one-to-one device 

retrofits. The scenario(s) may provide for a new component to modify the operation of an existing device (e.g., timer to reduce run-time). Three factors typically indicate a 

???Low Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) New devices maintain output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) of the old devices within a roughly 10% range. 2) New devices are installed 

in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit does not require substantive changes to electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. ???Low 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: lamp or fixture upgrades; attic insulation; fans; or washer-extractors. Each ???Design??? indicates that 

new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. If more than three practices are contracted, 

then, at a minimum, ???4-5 Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. If at least 1 scenario is more complex than indicated herein, use an alternate scenario for 

contracting. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA documents: a) the client???s 

final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design deliverables described in the associated 

NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,367.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,367.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 42 $4,482.24

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 12 $616.20

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 16 $1,166.24
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #105 - High Complexity, 2-3 Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose several variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that cannot be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or 

manual calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???High Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that 

varies more than about 30% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit 

requires substantive changes to two or more of the electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Complex analysis to evaluate alternatives is required to 

confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a detailed simulation is required to determine systems sizing and layout.) ???High 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: comprehensive lighting system redesign; radiant heating systems; convert to tunnel ventilation; or convert 

to bench heating. Each ???Design??? indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are 

contracted. If more than one practice is contracted, then, at a minimum, ???2-3 Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. Use this scenario if at least one 

design is deemed high complexity. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA 

documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas; and c) design deliverables 

described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,733.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,733.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 54 $5,762.88

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 13 $667.55

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 16 $1,166.24
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #121 - Medium Complexity, 2-3 Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose some variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that can be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or manual 

calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???Medium Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that varies 

more than about 10% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit requires 

substantive changes to either electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Analysis beyond the scope of NRCS methodology to evaluate alternatives is 

required to confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a simplified heat transfer model to determine heating, ventilation, and 

cooling loads may be required if existing device capacity cannot be estimated.) ???Medium Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: change of 

lighting fixture counts or layout; wall insulation; grain dryers; add reverse osmosis to syrup production; or add evaporative cooling systems (cooling cells). Each 

???Design??? indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. If more than one 

practice is contracted, then, at a minimum, ???2-3 Designs??? shall be contracted for theAg Energy DIA. If at least 1 scenario is more complex than indicated herein, use an 

alternate scenario for contracting. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA 

documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,221.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,221.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 42 $4,482.24

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 12 $616.20

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 14 $1,020.46
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #137 - Low Complexity, 2-3 Designs

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with multiple energy practice scenarios. Associated scenario(s) provide for one-to-one device 

retrofits. The scenario(s) may provide for a new component to modify the operation of an existing device (e.g., timer to reduce run-time). Three factors typically indicate a 

???Low Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) New devices maintain output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) of the old devices within a roughly 10% range. 2) New devices are installed 

in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit does not require substantive changes to electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. ???Low 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: lamp or fixture upgrades; attic insulation; fans; or washer-extractors. Each ???Design??? indicates that 

new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. If more than one practice is contracted, then, 

at a minimum, ???2-3 Designs??? shall be contracted for the Ag Energy DIA. If at least 1 scenario is more complex than indicated herein, use an alternate scenario for 

contracting. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA documents: a) the client???s 

final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design deliverables described in the associated 

NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,709.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,709.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 30 $3,201.60

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 11 $564.85

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 12 $874.68
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #153 - High Complexity, 1 Design

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) energy practice scenario. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose several variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that cannot be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or 

manual calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???High Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that 

varies more than about 30% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit 

requires substantive changes to two or more of the electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Complex analysis to evaluate alternatives is required to 

confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a detailed simulation is required to determine systems sizing and layout.) ???High 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: comprehensive lighting system redesign; radiant heating systems; convert to tunnel ventilation; or convert 

to bench heating. ???One Design??? indicates that each new device or component is closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are 

contracted. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA documents: a) the client???s 

final decisions related to the associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design deliverables described in the associated 

NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,075.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,075.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 42 $4,482.24

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 12 $616.20

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 12 $874.68
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #169 - Medium Complexity, 1 Design

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) energy practice scenario. Associated scenario(s) provide for retrofits that 

impose some variables in the design process. The scenarios may involve a change in service levels that can be evaluated or designed through use of simple tools or manual 

calculations. Four factors typically indicate a ???Medium Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) Client objectives require a change of output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) that varies 

more than about 10% from old devices. 2) System constraints prevent new devices from being installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit requires 

substantive changes to either electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. 4) Analysis beyond the scope of NRCS methodology to evaluate alternatives is 

required to confirm level of service and appropriate device output, placement, etc. (For example, a simplified heat transfer model to determine heating, ventilation, and 

cooling loads may be required if existing device capacity cannot be estimated.) ???Medium Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: change of 

lighting fixture counts or layout; wall insulation; grain dryers; add reverse osmosis to syrup production; or add evaporative cooling systems (cooling cells). ???One 

Design??? indicates that each new device or component is closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. The Ag Energy DIA 

includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the 

associated energy practice scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice 

Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,563.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,563.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 30 $3,201.60

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 11 $564.85

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 10 $728.90
Practice: 120 - Agricultural Energy Design

Scenario: #185 - Low Complexity, 1 Design

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to conserve energy through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) energy practice scenario. Associated scenario(s) provide for one-to-one 

device retrofits. The scenario(s) may provide for a new component to modify the operation of an existing device (e.g., timer to reduce run-time). Three factors typically 

indicate a ???Low Complexity??? system, as follows. 1) New devices maintain output (hp, Btu/hr, lux, etc.) of the old devices within a roughly 10% range. 2) New devices 

are installed in the same location as the old devices. 3) The retrofit does not require substantive changes to electrical, mechanical, plumbing, or structural systems. ???Low 

Complexity??? practice scenarios include but are not limited to: lamp or fixture upgrades; attic insulation; fans; or washer-extractors. ???One Design??? indicates that 

each new device or component is closely related to other devices or components even if numerous scenarios are contracted. The Ag Energy DIA includes reviewing, and, 

when needed, revising alternatives to address energy concerns. The Ag Energy DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated energy practice 

scenarios, b) estimated energy and greenhouse gas benefits; and c) design deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. 

Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to transition their agricultural operation to become more energy efficient. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement 

one or more practice scenarios to address Energy Efficiency resource concerns using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria incorporates recommended measures to 

increase energy conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building 

Envelope, 533 Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Ag Energy DIA. The DIA 120 criteria include tasks needed to 

document the client???s decision, energy savings and design of conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy DIA meets the quality criteria for 

the DIA 120 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,051.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,051.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 18 $1,920.96

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 10 $513.50

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 1 $34.20

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 8 $583.12
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #24 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition CAP Crops and Livestock

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will transition from conventional to organic to meet USDA National Organic Program (NOP) requirements. Natural Resource 

Concern: Soil Erosion, Water Quality, Plant Condition, and other identified natural resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using traditional and conventional methods for farming and/or ranching mixed operation of crops and livestock. The producer 

currently manages the operation based upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. The producer is interested in transitioning part or all of the management unit to 

meet national USDA requirements for a certified operation. The producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and collect/coordinate data 

recording to monitor per requirements of plan. Associated Practices: Refer to the NRCS Plan Criteria for conservation practices associated with operations transitioning to 

organic certification and typically needed to address identified natural resource concerns.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop the Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition Conservation Activity 

Plan (CAP) The CAP criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to implement a system of 

conservation practices which assist the producer to transition from conventional farming or ranching to an organic production system with crops and livestock. The CAP 

plan will include conservation practices which address related resource concerns. The CAP meets the basic quality criteria for the 138 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office 

Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,436.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,436.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 75 $6,436.50
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #25 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition CAP Crops or Livestock

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will transition from conventional to organic to meet USDA National Organic Program (NOP) requirements. Natural Resource 

Concern: Soil Erosion, Water Quality, Plant Condition, and other identified natural resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using traditional and conventional methods for farming with only crops. The producer currently manages the operation based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. The producer is interested in transitioning part or all of the management unit to meet national USDA requirements for 

certified operation. The producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan and collect/coordinate data recording to monitor per requirements of 

plan. Associated Practices: Refer to the NRCS Plan Criteria for conservation practices associated with operations transitioning to organic certification and typically needed 

to address identified natural resource concerns.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop the Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition Conservation Activity 

Plan (CAP) The CAP criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to implement a system of 

conservation practices which assist the producer to transition from conventional farming or ranching to an organic production system with crops and livestock. The CAP 

plan will include conservation practices which address related resource concerns. The CAP meets the basic quality criteria for the 138 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office 

Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,492.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,492.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 64 $5,492.48
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #41 - Transition to Organic- Crop, Low Complexity

Scenario Description:

A site specific conservation plan that contains planned conservation treatment activities for resource concerns resulting from the transition of conventional to organic 

production systems. At a minimum two alternatives will be developed. The first will be a no-action alternative in which current management activities are assumed to 

continue. The second will be an action alternative identifying a conservation practice or a system of conservation practices and management activities to address CPA 

identified resource concern(s). Additional action alternatives may be developed to identify different ways of achieving client objectives.

Before Situation:

Current crops and rotation, farming practices (tillage, nutrient application methods, timing, source, and rate), soils, and equipment and technology utilized are not 

considered as Organic. The producer objectives are to become organic. The effect of changes to the current cropping system are not known and new resource concerns 

may emerge.

After Situation:

When evaluating conservation practice effects, the short term and long term effect on natural resources and the applicability and effect on special environmental concerns 

identified in Step-3 (Resource Inventory) must be documented. Include recommendations that will avoid or mitigate any adverse effects on soil, water, air, plants, animals 

(including livestock, fish, and wildlife), energy, or human concerns; as well as on special environmental concerns. The Organic System Plan Template supplements are 

completed as part of NRCS Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) 138 that helps farmers who are interested in transitioning from conventional farming practices to organic 

production by addressing the natural resource concerns on their operation.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,578.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,578.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 65 $5,578.30
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #57 - Transition to Organic- Crop, High Complexity

Scenario Description:

A site specific conservation plan that contains planned conservation treatment activities for resource concerns resulting from the transition of conventional to organic 

production systems. Crop production system is more complex based on site features, large acreage, specialty crops, irrigation, orchard and vineyards. At a minimum two 

alternatives will be developed. The first will be a no-action alternative in which current management activities are assumed to continue. The second will be an action 

alternative identifying a conservation practice or a system of conservation practices and management activities to address CPA identified resource concern(s). Additional 

action alternatives may be developed to identify different ways of achieving client objectives.

Before Situation:

Current crops and rotation, farming practices (tillage, nutrient application methods, timing, source, and rate), soils, and equipment and technology utilized are not 

considered as Organic. The producer objectives are to become organic. The effect of changes to the current cropping system are not known and new resource concerns 

may emerge.

After Situation:

When evaluating conservation practice effects, the short term and long term effect on natural resources and the applicability and effect on special environmental concerns 

identified in Step-3 (Resource Inventory) must be documented. Include recommendations that will avoid or mitigate any adverse effects on soil, water, air, plants, animals 

(including livestock, fish, and wildlife), energy, or human concerns; as well as on special environmental concerns. The Organic System Plan Template supplements are 

completed as part of NRCS Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) 138 that helps farmers who are interested in transitioning from conventional farming practices to organic 

production by addressing the natural resource concerns on their operation.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,436.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,436.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 75 $6,436.50
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #73 - Transition to Organic-Livestock, Low Complexity

Scenario Description:

A site specific conservation plan that contains planned conservation treatment activities for resource concerns resulting from the transition of conventional to organic 

livestock systems. At a minimum two alternatives will be developed. The first will be a no-action alternative in which current management activities are assumed to 

continue. The second will be an action alternative identifying a conservation practice or a system of conservation practices and management activities to address CPA 

identified resource concern(s). Additional action alternatives may be developed to identify different ways of achieving client objectives.

Before Situation:

Current livestock production, housing, feed, equipment and technology utilized are not considered as Organic. The producer objectives are to become organic. The effect 

of changes to the current system are not known and new resource concerns may emerge.

After Situation:

When evaluating conservation practice effects, the short term and long term effect on natural resources and the applicability and effect on special environmental concerns 

identified in Step-3 (Resource Inventory) must be documented. Include recommendations that will avoid or mitigate any adverse effects on soil, water, air, plants, animals 

(including livestock, fish, and wildlife), energy, or human concerns; as well as on special environmental concerns. The Organic System Plan Template supplements are 

completed as part of NRCS Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) 138 that helps farmers who are interested in transitioning from conventional farming practices to organic 

production by addressing the natural resource concerns on their operation.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,007.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,007.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 70 $6,007.40
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #89 - Transition to Organic-Livestock, High Complexity

Scenario Description:

A site specific conservation plan that contains planned conservation treatment activities for resource concerns resulting from the transition of conventional to organic 

livestock systems. System is high complexity based on conditions such as large Animal Units, multiple production locations, age segregation and similar management. At 

a minimum two alternatives will be developed. The first will be a no-action alternative in which current management activities are assumed to continue. The second will 

be an action alternative identifying a conservation practice or a system of conservation practices and management activities to address CPA identified resource 

concern(s). Additional action alternatives may be developed to identify different ways of achieving client objectives.

Before Situation:

Current livestock production, housing, feed, equipment and technology utilized are not considered as Organic. The producer objectives are to become organic. The effect 

of changes to the current system are not known and new resource concerns may emerge.

After Situation:

When evaluating conservation practice effects, the short term and long term effect on natural resources and the applicability and effect on special environmental concerns 

identified in Step-3 (Resource Inventory) must be documented. Include recommendations that will avoid or mitigate any adverse effects on soil, water, air, plants, animals 

(including livestock, fish, and wildlife), energy, or human concerns; as well as on special environmental concerns. The Organic System Plan Template supplements are 

completed as part of NRCS Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) 138 that helps farmers who are interested in transitioning from conventional farming practices to organic 

production by addressing the natural resource concerns on their operation.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,000.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,000.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 20 $2,134.40

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 80 $6,865.60
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #105 - Transition to Organic- Crop and Livestock, Low Complexity

Scenario Description:

A site specific conservation plan that contains planned conservation treatment activities for resource concerns resulting from the transition of conventional to organic crop 

and livestock production systems. At a minimum two alternatives will be developed. The first will be a no-action alternative in which current management activities are 

assumed to continue. The second will be an action alternative identifying a conservation practice or a system of conservation practices and management activities to 

address CPA identified resource concern(s). Additional action alternatives may be developed to identify different ways of achieving client objectives.

Before Situation:

Current crops and rotation, livestock management and feeding, farming practices (tillage, nutrient application methods, timing, source, and rate), soils, and equipment 

and technology utilized are not considered as Organic. The producer objectives are to become organic. The effect of changes to the current cropping system are not 

known and new resource concerns may emerge.

After Situation:

When evaluating conservation practice effects, the short term and long term effect on natural resources and the applicability and effect on special environmental concerns 

identified in Step-3 (Resource Inventory) must be documented. Include recommendations that will avoid or mitigate any adverse effects on soil, water, air, plants, animals 

(including livestock, fish, and wildlife), energy, or human concerns; as well as on special environmental concerns. The Organic System Plan Template supplements are 

completed as part of NRCS Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) 138 that helps farmers who are interested in transitioning from conventional farming practices to organic 

production by addressing the natural resource concerns on their operation.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,436.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,436.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 75 $6,436.50
Practice: 138 - Conservation Plan Supporting Organic Transition

Scenario: #121 - Transition to Organic- Crop and Livestock, High Complexity

Scenario Description:

A site specific conservation plan that contains planned conservation treatment activities for resource concerns resulting from the transition of conventional to organic crop 

and livestock production systems. Increased crop acreage, irrigation, specialty crops, orchards and vineyards, large AUs, age segregation management add complexity to 

the system. At a minimum two alternatives will be developed. The first will be a no-action alternative in which current management activities are assumed to continue. 

The second will be an action alternative identifying a conservation practice or a system of conservation practices and management activities to address CPA identified 

resource concern(s). Additional action alternatives may be developed to identify different ways of achieving client objectives.

Before Situation:

Current crops and rotation, livestock management and feeding, farming practices (tillage, nutrient application methods, timing, source, and rate), soils, and equipment 

and technology utilized are not considered as Organic. The producer objectives are to become organic. The effect of changes to the current cropping system are not 

known and new resource concerns may emerge.

After Situation:

When evaluating conservation practice effects, the short term and long term effect on natural resources and the applicability and effect on special environmental concerns 

identified in Step-3 (Resource Inventory) must be documented. Include recommendations that will avoid or mitigate any adverse effects on soil, water, air, plants, animals 

(including livestock, fish, and wildlife), energy, or human concerns; as well as on special environmental concerns. The Organic System Plan Template supplements are 

completed as part of NRCS Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) 138 that helps farmers who are interested in transitioning from conventional farming practices to organic 

production by addressing the natural resource concerns on their operation.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,429.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,429.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 20 $2,134.40

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 85 $7,294.70
Practice: 140 - Transition to Organic Design

Scenario: #9 - Low Complexity 1-4 CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will transition from conventional production to organic production. They will meet the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) 

requirements. All Natural resources will be addressed: Soil, Water, Air, Plants and Animals. Will address resource concerns with 1 - 4, low complexity conservation 

practices.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using conventional agricultural production methods. Producer will transition all or part of the farm operation to meet national 

USDA NOP requirements for organic certification. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. Low complexity conservation practices may include: cover crop, crop 

rotation, reduced tillage, conservation plantings and minor structural practices for erosion control such as grass waterways and diversions.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. All practices installed according to field office technical guide 

requirements. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,919.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,919.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 140 - Transition to Organic Design

Scenario: #25 - Low Complexity, 5+ CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will transition from conventional production to organic production. They will meet the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) 

requirements. All Natural resources will be addressed: Soil, Water, Air, Plants and Animals. Will address resources concerns with 5 or more conservation practices with 

low complexity.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using conventional agricultural production methods. Producer will transition all or part of the farm operation to meet national 

USDA NOP requirements for organic certification. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. Low complexity conservation practices may include: cover crop, crop 

rotation, reduced tillage, conservation plantings and minor structural practices for erosion control such as grass waterways and diversions.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. All practices installed according to field office technical guide 

requirements. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,770.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,770.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 32 $3,472.32

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 32 $3,415.04

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 32 $2,746.24

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80
Practice: 140 - Transition to Organic Design

Scenario: #41 - High Complexity, 1 -4 CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will transition from conventional production to organic production. They will meet the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) 

requirements. All Natural resources will be addressed: Soil, Water, Air, Plants, and Animals. Will address resource concerns with 1 - 4, high complexity conservation 

practices.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using conventional agricultural production methods. Producer will transition all or part of the farm operation to meet national 

USDA NOP requirements for organic certification. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. High complexity conservation practices may include: management 

practices for nutrients, pests, grazing, irrigation etc. and structural practices such as waste storage facility and wetland practices.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. All practices installed according to field office technical guide 

requirements. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,644.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,644.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 40 $3,432.80

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 8 $499.84

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 140 - Transition to Organic Design

Scenario: #57 - High Complexity, 5+ CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will transition from conventional production to organic production. They will meet the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) 

requirements. All Natural resources will be addressed: Soil, Water, Air, Plants and Animals. Will address resource concerns with 5 or more, high complexity conservation 

practices.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using conventional agricultural production methods. Producer will transition all or part of the farm operation to meet national 

USDA NOP requirements for organic certification. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. High complexity conservation practices may include: management 

practices for nutrients, pests, grazing, irrigation etc. and structural practices such as waste storage facility and wetland practices.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to meet organic certification requirements. All practices installed according to field office technical guide 

requirements. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,287.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16,287.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 56 $6,076.56

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 56 $4,805.92

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 16 $999.68

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80
Practice: 144 - Fish and Wildlife Habitat Design

Scenario: #9 - Fish & Wildlife Habitat DIA

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses. Natural Resource Concerns: Terrestrial Habitat and/or Aquatic Habitat on an agricultural operation. The Fish and Wildlife Habitat Design and 

Implementation Activity (DIA) addresses fish and wildlife habitat management relative to only one land use on the agricultural operation.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or knowledge of development or management of fish and/or wildlife habitat. The producer does not currently manage or enhance habitat to 

promote opportunities for fish and/or wildlife habitat. Within existing land uses, the producer is interested in management of land or water features for establishment of 

new habitat for benefit of appropriate fish or wildlife species. Associated Practices: Applicable conservation practices cited in the DIA criteria and NRCS Field Office 

Technical Guide.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, the participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Fish and Wildlife Habitat DIA. The DIA criteria require the 

plan to meet quality criteria for the primary fish/wildlife habitat resource concern and provides for opportunities to improve, restore, or enhance habitat that supports 

native and/or managed species. The DIA may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The DIA 

meets the basic quality criteria for the 144 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Design & Implementation Plan

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,272.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,272.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, biologist 1298 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study the origins, behavior, diseases, 

genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in 

wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological 

data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential 

use of land and water habitats. Cost associated with this component 

includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $90.90 36 $3,272.40
Practice: 144 - Fish and Wildlife Habitat Design

Scenario: #25 - Fish & Wildlife Habitat DIA (2 Land Uses)

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses. Natural Resource Concerns: Terrestrial Habitat and/or Aquatic Habitat on an agricultural operation. The Fish and Wildlife Habitat Design and 

Implementation Activity (DIA) addresses fish and wildlife habitat management relative to two land uses on the agricultural operation of which each land use is at least 20 

acres in size.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or knowledge of development or management of fish and/or wildlife habitat. The producer does not currently manage or enhance habitat to 

promote opportunities for fish and/or wildlife habitat. Within existing land uses, the producer is interested in management of land or water features for establishment of 

new habitat for benefit of appropriate fish or wildlife species. Associated Practices: Applicable conservation practices cited in the DIA criteria and NRCS Field Office 

Technical Guide.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, the participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Fish and Wildlife Habitat DIA. The DIA criteria require the 

plan to meet quality criteria for the primary fish/wildlife habitat resource concern and provides for opportunities to improve, restore, or enhance habitat that supports 

native and/or managed species. The DIA may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The DIA 

meets the basic quality criteria for the 144 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Fish and Wildlife Habitat DIA

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,999.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,999.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, biologist 1298 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study the origins, behavior, diseases, 

genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in 

wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological 

data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential 

use of land and water habitats. Cost associated with this component 

includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $90.90 44 $3,999.60
Practice: 144 - Fish and Wildlife Habitat Design

Scenario: #41 - Fish & Wildlife Habitat DIA (3 or More Land Uses)

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses. Natural Resource Concerns: Terrestrial Habitat and/or Aquatic Habitat on an agricultural operation. The Fish and Wildlife Habitat Design and 

Implementation Activity (DIA) addresses fish and wildlife habitat management relative to three or more land uses on the agricultural operation of which at least three of 

the land uses are at least 20 acres in size.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or knowledge of development or management of fish and/or wildlife habitat. The producer does not currently manage or enhance habitat to 

promote opportunities for fish and/or wildlife habitat. Within existing land uses, the producer is interested in management of land or water features for establishment of 

new habitat for benefit of appropriate fish or wildlife species. Associated Practices: Applicable conservation practices cited in the DIA criteria and NRCS Field Office 

Technical Guide.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, the participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Fish and Wildlife Habitat DIA. The DIA criteria require the 

plan to meet quality criteria for the primary fish/wildlife habitat resource concern and provides for opportunities to improve, restore, or enhance habitat that supports 

native and/or managed species. The DIA may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. The DIA 

meets the basic quality criteria for the 144 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Fish and Wildlife Habitat DIA

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,726.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,726.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, biologist 1298 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study the origins, behavior, diseases, 

genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in 

wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological 

data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential 

use of land and water habitats. Cost associated with this component 

includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $90.90 52 $4,726.80
Practice: 148 - Pollinator Habitat Design

Scenario: #9 - Pollinator Habitat Enhancement Plan CAP - No Local TSP

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses, No qualified TSP within 300 miles. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife, Plant Condition, Soil Erosion, Water Quality on an agricultural 

operation.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer currently has no plan or knowledge of development or management of pollinator habitat. The producer does not currently manage or enhance 

habitat to promote opportunities for pollinator habitat. Within existing land uses, the producer may be interested in management of land or for establishment of 

new habitat for benefit of appropriate pollinator species. Associated Practices: 311, 327, 328, 656, 332, 340, 342, 647, 386, 393, 412, 422, 603, 379, 512, 595, 338, 

528, 550, 329, 643, 391, 390, 381, 395, 580, 585, 612, 645, 601, 659, 657, 644, 380, 650.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Pollinator Habitat Enhancement Conservation Activity Plan 

(CAP). The CAP criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to improve, restore, or enhance flowerrich habitat that supports native and/or managed pollinator species. The CAP plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address 

other related resource concerns. The CAP meets the basic quality criteria for the 146 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,544.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,544.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, biologist 1298 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study the origins, behavior, diseases, 

genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in 

wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological 

data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential 

use of land and water habitats. Cost associated with this component 

includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $90.90 61 $5,544.90
Practice: 148 - Pollinator Habitat Design

Scenario: #25 - Pollinator Habitat Enhancement Plan CAP

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife, Plant Condition, Soil Erosion, Water Quality on an agricultural operation.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer currently has no plan or knowledge of development or management of pollinator habitat. The producer does not currently manage or enhance 

habitat to promote opportunities for pollinator habitat. Within existing land uses, the producer may be interested in management of land or for establishment of 

new habitat for benefit of appropriate pollinator species. Associated Practices: 311, 327, 328, 656, 332, 340, 342, 647, 386, 393, 412, 422, 603, 379, 512, 595, 338, 528, 

550, 329, 643, 391, 390, 381, 395, 580, 585, 612, 645, 601, 659, 657, 644, 380, 650.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Pollinator Habitat Enhancement Conservation Activity Plan 

(CAP). The CAP criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to improve, restore, or enhance flowerrich habitat that supports native and/or managed pollinator species. The CAP plan may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address 

other related resource concerns. The CAP meets the basic quality criteria for the 146 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,817.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,817.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, biologist 1298 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study the origins, behavior, diseases, 

genetics, and life processes of animals and wildlife. May specialize in 

wildlife research and management. May collect and analyze biological 

data to determine the environmental effects of present and potential 

use of land and water habitats. Cost associated with this component 

includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $90.90 42 $3,817.80
Practice: 157 - Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity 

Scenario: #9 - Design Nutrient Management for greater than 101 Acres and less than or equal to 300 Acres Fertilizer and Manure

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses where natural or artificial amendments are applied. Natural Resource Concern: Water Quality, Soil Erosion, Water Quantity, and other 

associated resource concerns. Manure may be imported.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has no plan or minimal knowledge for the application and management of nutrients. The producer currently manages nutrient application based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. Producer is interested in management of nutrients to maximize yields, improve profit margins, reduce costs, and for 

environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Nutrient Management conservation activity plan consistent 

with the criteria in DIA 157 and 590 Nutrient Management. The DIA criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for Soils, Water Quality and Air Quality resource 

concerns and other applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to manage nutrients for plant production and address offsite movement of nutrients. The 

design may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. Meets the basic quality criteria for the DIA 157 

as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide and CPS 590 Nutrient Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,595.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,595.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 70 $7,595.70
Practice: 157 - Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity 

Scenario: #25 - Design Nutrient Management for 101 to less than 300 Acres and No Manure

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses where natural or artificial amendments are applied. Natural Resource Concern: Water Quality, Soil Erosion, Water Quantity, and other 

associated resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has no plan or minimal knowledge for the application and management of nutrients. The producer currently manages nutrient application based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. Producer is interested in management of nutrients to maximize yields, improve profit margins, reduce costs, and for 

environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Nutrient Management conservation activity plan consistent 

with the criteria in DIA 157 and 590 Nutrient Management. The DIA criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for Soils, Water Quality and Air Quality resource 

concerns and other applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to manage nutrients for plant production and address offsite movement of nutrients. The 

design may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. Meets the basic quality criteria for the DIA 157 

as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide and CPS 590 Nutrient Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,340.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,340.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40
Practice: 157 - Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity 

Scenario: #41 - Design Nutrient Management for greater than 300 Acres and No Manure

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses where natural or artificial amendments are applied. Natural Resource Concern: Water Quality, Soil Erosion, Water Quantity, and other 

associated resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has no plan or minimal knowledge for the application and management of nutrients. The producer currently manages nutrient application based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. Producer is interested in management of nutrients to maximize yields, improve profit margins, reduce costs, and for 

environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Nutrient Management conservation activity plan consistent 

with the criteria in DIA 157 and 590 Nutrient Management. The DIA criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for Soils, Water Quality and Air Quality resource 

concerns and other applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to manage nutrients for plant production and address offsite movement of nutrients. The 

design may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. Meets the basic quality criteria for the DIA 157 

as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide and CPS 590 Nutrient Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,425.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,425.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 50 $5,425.50
Practice: 157 - Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity 

Scenario: #57 - Design Nutrient Management for less than or equal to 100 Acres Fertilizer and Manure

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses where natural or artificial amendments are applied. Natural Resource Concern: Water Quality, Soil Erosion, Water Quantity, and other 

associated resource concerns. Manure may be imported.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has no plan or minimal knowledge for the application and management of nutrients. The producer currently manages nutrient application based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. Producer is interested in management of nutrients to maximize yields, improve profit margins, reduce costs, and for 

environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Nutrient Management conservation activity plan consistent 

with the criteria in DIA 157 and 590 Nutrient Management. The DIA criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for Soils, Water Quality and Air Quality resource 

concerns and other applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to manage nutrients for plant production and address offsite movement of nutrients. The 

design may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. Meets the basic quality criteria for the DIA 157 

as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide and CPS 590 Nutrient Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,425.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,425.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 50 $5,425.50
Practice: 157 - Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity 

Scenario: #73 - Design Nutrient Management for less than or equal to 100 Acres and No Manure

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses where natural or artificial amendments are applied. Natural Resource Concern: Water Quality, Soil Erosion, Water Quantity, and other 

associated resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has no plan or minimal knowledge for the application and management of nutrients. The producer currently manages nutrient application based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. Producer is interested in management of nutrients to maximize yields, improve profit margins, reduce costs, and for 

environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Nutrient Management conservation activity plan consistent 

with the criteria in DIA 157 and 590 Nutrient Management. The DIA criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for Soils, Water Quality and Air Quality resource 

concerns and other applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to manage nutrients for plant production and address offsite movement of nutrients. The 

design may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. Meets the basic quality criteria for the DIA 157 

as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide and CPS 590 Nutrient Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,255.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,255.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 30 $3,255.30
Practice: 157 - Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity 

Scenario: #89 - Design Nutrient Management for greater than 300 Acres Fertilizer and Manure

Scenario Description:

Various on-farm land uses where natural or artificial amendments are applied. Natural Resource Concern: Water Quality, Soil Erosion, Water Quantity, and other 

associated resource concerns. Manure may be imported.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has no plan or minimal knowledge for the application and management of nutrients. The producer currently manages nutrient application based 

upon personal knowledge, or other local criteria. Producer is interested in management of nutrients to maximize yields, improve profit margins, reduce costs, and for 

environmental benefit. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to develop a plan.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Nutrient Management conservation activity plan consistent 

with the criteria in DIA 157 and 590 Nutrient Management. The DIA criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for Soils, Water Quality and Air Quality resource 

concerns and other applicable resource concerns and provides for opportunities to manage nutrients for plant production and address offsite movement of nutrients. The 

design may include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address other related resource concerns. Meets the basic quality criteria for the DIA 157 

as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide and CPS 590 Nutrient Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,223.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,223.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 85 $9,223.35
Practice: 158 - Feed Management Design

Scenario: #9 - Feed Management Plan

Scenario Description:

The owner/operator of an Animal Feeding Operation (AFO) has not received a written Feed Management Plan that addresses all resource concerns present on the facility. 

Various levels of management and conservation implementation has occurred in the operation. Little documentation of the methods of feed management used and 

practices installed exists, and the producer is not likely to developed a complete forage inventory or nutrient analysis. The producer may or may not have a conservation 

plan or a nutrient management plan. Nutrient management related resource concerns on the operation remain to be addressed through the development of a complete 

activity plan including management and conservation practices for proper quantity and quality of available nutrients, feedstuffs, and/or additives fed to livestock or 

poultry that may be present on the operation. Present operation and feed methodology poses risk of feeding excessive amounts of nutrients in animal manure which 

result in negative impacts to water quality and odor resource concerns. Negative water and air quality impacts as well as farmstead safety and security issues may remain 

on the AFO, and inadequate record-keeping nutrient, inspection and monitoring of the existing operation may need further improvement.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have a plan or has limited knowledge of management of feed, nutrients, feedstuffs, or nutritional additives provided to domestic livestock and poultry. 

The producer currently manages feed without a plan which would address livestock production limitations and water and air quality resource concern impacts. Producer 

currently lacks plan to provide proper balance of forage, grains or other feeds and supplements to assure domestic animal nutritional needs are met without negatively 

impacting water and air quality. Producer is interested in management of feed for domestic animals to maximize profit margin, reduce costs, improve or address livestock 

production opportunities, and for other environmental benefits. Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to develop a plan, and to 

collect/coordinate data and records to determine current nutritional needs. Associated Practice(s): 590-Nutrient Management

After Situation:

Participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Feed Management plan (CAP). The criteria requires the plan to meet quality criteria for 

applicable natural resource concerns and provides for opportunities to identify and implement conservation practices related to management of feed, forages, or delivery 

of supplements to maximize efficient feeding operations and livestock growth. The plan may serve as the basis for implementation of the primary conservation practice 

592 - Feed Management. If applicable, the plan may also be developed to complement Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP) or to help meet requirements 

of NRCS practice standard 590 - Nutrient Management. The plan may include recommendations for addressing associated natural resource concerns with other 

conservation practices.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,340.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,340.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40
Practice: 159 - Grazing Management Design

Scenario: #105 - Design and Implementation Activities for Grazed Lands <100 acres

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation activities for agricultural operation with less than 100 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be addressed: Soil 

erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of conservation practices to effectively manage livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently 

manages animals without a plan or implemented conservation practices to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals 

and implementing conservation practices to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. 

Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to design and implement a plan and/or conservation practices to meet resource concerns. In addition to the 

Prescribed Grazing Plan (CPS 528) practice, other associated conservation practices standards maybe designed and implemented to meet resource concerns identified in 

the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) for grazed lands.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Grazing Management DIA. The DIA criteria requires the design 

and implementation of grazing activities as a component of the CPA to address resouce concerns and to meet criteria for applicable conservation practices including 

practices such as: Prescribed Grazing Management (528), Brush Management (314), Fencing (382), Forage Harvest Management (511), Grazing Land Mechanical 

Treatment (548), Herbaceous Weed Treatment (315), Pasture and Hay Planting (512), Range Planting (550), and any additional conservation practices which address other 

related resource concerns. The DIA meets the basic quality criteria for the 159 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,672.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,672.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 16 $1,672.64
Practice: 159 - Grazing Management Design

Scenario: #121 - Design and Implementation Activities for Grazed Lands 101 to 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation activities for an agricultural operation with 101 to 500 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be addressed: soil 

erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of conservation practices to effectively manage livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently 

manages animals without a plan or implemented conservation practices to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals 

and implementing conservation practices to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. 

Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to design and implement a plan and/or conservation practices to meet resource concerns. In addition to the 

Prescribed Grazing Plan (CPS 528) practice, other associated conservation practices standards maybe designed and implemented to meet resource concerns identified in 

the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) for grazed lands.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Grazing Management DIA. The DIA criteria requires the design 

and implementation of grazing activities as a component of the CPA to address resouce concerns and to meet criteria for applicable conservation practices including 

practices such as: Prescribed Grazing Management (528), Brush Management (314), Fencing (382), Forage Harvest Management (511), Grazing Land Mechanical 

Treatment (548), Herbaceous Weed Treatment (315), Pasture and Hay Planting (512), Range Planting (550), and any additional conservation practices which address other 

related resource concerns. The DIA meets the basic quality criteria for the 159 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,090.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,090.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 20 $2,090.80
Practice: 159 - Grazing Management Design

Scenario: #137 - Design and Implementation Activities for Grazed Lands 501 to 1,500 acres

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation activities for agricultural operation with 501 to 1,500 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be addressed: soil 

erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of conservation practices to effectively manage livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently 

manages animals without a plan or implemented conservation practices to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals 

and implementing conservation practices to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. 

Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to design and implement a plan and/or conservation practices to meet resource concerns. In addition to the 

Prescribed Grazing Plan (CPS 528) practice, other associated conservation practices standards maybe designed and implemented to meet resource concerns identified in 

the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) for grazed lands.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Grazing Management DIA. The DIA criteria requires the design 

and implementation of grazing activities as a component of the CPA to address resource concerns and to meet criteria for applicable conservation practices including 

practices such as: Prescribed Grazing Management (528), Brush Management (314), Fencing (382), Forage Harvest Management (511), Grazing Land Mechanical 

Treatment (548), Herbaceous Weed Treatment (315), Pasture and Hay Planting (512), Range Planting (550), and any additional conservation practices which address other 

related resource concerns. The DIA meets the basic quality criteria for the 159 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,508.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,508.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 24 $2,508.96
Practice: 159 - Grazing Management Design

Scenario: #153 - Design and Implementation Activities for Grazed Lands 1,501 to 5,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation activity for an agricultural operation with 1,501 to 5,000 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be addressed: Soil 

erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of conservation practices to effectively manage livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently 

manages animals without a plan or implemented conservation practices to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals 

and implementing conservation practices to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. 

Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to design and implement a plan and/or conservation practices to meet resource concerns. In addition to the 

Prescribed Grazing Plan (CPS 528) practice, other associated conservation practices standards maybe designed and implemented to meet resource concerns identified in 

the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) for grazed lands.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Grazing Management DIA. The DIA criteria requires the design 

and implementation of grazing activities as a component of the CPA to address resource concerns and to meet criteria for applicable conservation practices including 

practices such as: Prescribed Grazing Management (528), Brush Management (314), Fencing (382), Forage Harvest Management (511), Grazing Land Mechanical 

Treatment (548), Herbaceous Weed Treatment (315), Pasture and Hay Planting (512), Range Planting (550), and any additional conservation practices which address other 

related resource concerns. The DIA meets the basic quality criteria for the 159 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,927.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,927.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 28 $2,927.12
Practice: 159 - Grazing Management Design

Scenario: #169 - Design and Implementation Activities for Grazed Lands 5,001 to 10,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation activities for an agricultural operation with 5,001 to 10,000 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be addressed: soil 

erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of conservation practices to effectively manage livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently 

manages animals without a plan or implemented conservation practices to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals 

and implementing conservation practices to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. 

Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to design and implement a plan and/or conservation practices to meet resource concerns. In addition to the 

Prescribed Grazing Plan (CPS 528) practice, other associated conservation practices standards maybe designed and implemented to meet resource concerns identified in 

the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) for grazed lands.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Grazing Management DIA. The DIA criteria requires the design 

and implementation of grazing activities as a component of the CPA to address resouce concerns and to meet criteria for applicable conservation practices including 

practices such as: Prescribed Grazing Management (528), Brush Management (314), Fencing (382), Forage Harvest Management (511), Grazing Land Mechanical 

Treatment (548), Herbaceous Weed Treatment (315), Pasture and Hay Planting (512), Range Planting (550), and any additional conservation practices which address other 

related resource concerns. The DIA meets the basic quality criteria for the 159 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,345.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,345.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 32 $3,345.28
Practice: 159 - Grazing Management Design

Scenario: #185 - Design and Implementation Activities for Grazed Lands >10,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation activities for an agricultural operation with greater than 10,000 acres grazed land. The following natural resource concerns will be addressed: 

soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, and all other appropriate resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer has no plan or limited knowledge of conservation practices to effectively manage livestock or other animals on grazed land resources. The producer currently 

manages animals without a plan or implemented conservation practices to address identified natural resource concerns. Producer is interested in management of animals 

and implementing conservation practices to maximize profit margins, reduce costs, improve or address wildlife opportunities, and for other environmental benefit. 

Producer is willing to collaborate with a certified TSP to design and implement a plan and/or conservation practices to meet resource concerns. In addition to the 

Prescribed Grazing Plan (CPS 528) practice, other associated conservation practices standards maybe designed and implemented to meet resource concerns identified in 

the Conservation Planning Activity (CPA) for grazed lands.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Grazing Management DIA. The DIA criteria requires the design 

and implementation of grazing activities as a component of the CPA to address resource concerns and to meet criteria for applicable conservation practices including 

practices such as: Prescribed Grazing Management (528), Brush Management (314), Fencing (382), Forage Harvest Management (511), Grazing Land Mechanical 

Treatment (548), Herbaceous Weed Treatment (315), Pasture and Hay Planting (512), Range Planting (550), and any additional conservation practices which address other 

related resource concerns. The DIA meets the basic quality criteria for the 159 plan as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,763.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,763.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 36 $3,763.44
Practice: 160 - Prescribed Burning Design

Scenario: #9 - Prescribed Burning Plan DIA less than or equal to 20 acres

Scenario Description:

Non Industrial Private Forest Land, Pasture or Range Land typically less than or equal to 20 acres in size and is dominated by fire tolerant species that are competing with 

undesirable vegetation and accumulating fuel load. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition.

Before Situation:

Producer has no existing plan or an obsolete plan that is insufficient for current stand condition. A Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA is needed to enable the producer to 

apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other financial assistance programs in order to implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 394, 383, 

384, 528, 314, 315, 550, 644, 645, 659, 342, 647, 460, 643, 666, 595

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) for development of the Prescribed Burning DIA. The DIA 

criteria require the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The Prescribed 

Burning Plan DIA is not considered a Forest Management Plan, a Reforestation Plan, a Forest Harvest Plan, or a Prescribed Grazing Plan, but should complement the needs 

of those plans if they exist and if desired by the decision maker. The DIA plan will fully describe all aspects of the prescribed burn including, but not limited to objectives of 

the burn (i.e., site preparation, wildlife habitat, etc.), site conditions (i.e., fuel load, fuel type, etc.), implementation strategies (i.e., method of ignition, number of persons 

required, equipment needs, etc.), tolerable weather parameters (i.e., wind direction, relative humidity, mixing height, etc.) and identification of Smoke Sensitive Areas. 

Additional DIA plan criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide and potentially state developed technical criteria.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,268.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,268.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 15 $1,268.85
Practice: 160 - Prescribed Burning Design

Scenario: #25 - Prescribed Burning Plan (DIA) greater than 1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Non Industrial Private Forest Land, Pasture or Range Land typically greater than 1,000 acres in size and is dominated by fire tolerant species that are competing with 

undesirable vegetation and accumulating fuel load. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition.

Before Situation:

Producer has no existing plan or an obsolete plan that is insufficient for current stand condition. A Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA is needed to enable the producer to 

apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other financial assistance programs in order to implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 394, 383, 

384, 528, 314, 315, 550, 644, 645, 659, 342, 647, 460, 643, 666, 595

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) for development of the Prescribed Burning Plan (DIA). The 

DIA criteria require the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The 

Prescribed Burning Plan DIA is not considered a Forest Management Plan, a Reforestation Plan, a Forest Harvest Plan, or a Prescribed Grazing Plan, but should complement 

the needs of those plans if they exist and if desired by the decision maker. The DIA plan will fully describe all aspects of the prescribed burn including, but not limited to 

objectives of the burn (i.e., site preparation, wildlife habitat, etc.), site conditions (i.e., fuel load, fuel type, etc.), implementation strategies (i.e., method of ignition, 

number of persons required, equipment needs, etc.), tolerable weather parameters (i.e., wind direction, relative humidity, mixing height, etc.) and identification of Smoke 

Sensitive Areas. Additional DIA plan criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide and potentially state developed technical criteria.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,075.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,075.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 60 $5,075.40
Practice: 160 - Prescribed Burning Design

Scenario: #41 - Prescribed Burning Plan-DIA greater than 501 acres and less than 1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Non Industrial Private Forest Land, Pasture or Range Land typically greater than 501 acres and less than 1,000 acres in size and is dominated by fire tolerant species that 

are competing with undesirable vegetation and accumulating fuel load. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant 

Condition.

Before Situation:

Producer has no existing plan or an obsolete plan that is insufficient for current stand condition. A Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA is needed to enable the producer to 

apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other financial assistance programs in order to implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 394, 383, 

384, 528, 314, 315, 550, 644, 645, 659, 342, 647, 460, 643, 666, 595

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) for development of the Prescribed Burning Plan DIA. The 

DIA criteria require the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The 

Prescribed Burning Plan DIA is not considered a Forest Management Plan, a Reforestation Plan, a Forest Harvest Plan, or a Prescribed Grazing Plan, but should complement 

the needs of those plans if they exist and if desired by the decision maker. The DIA plan will fully describe all aspects of the prescribed burn including, but not limited to 

objectives of the burn (i.e., site preparation, wildlife habitat, etc.), site conditions (i.e., fuel load, fuel type, etc.), implementation strategies (i.e., method of ignition, 

number of persons required, equipment needs, etc.), tolerable weather parameters (i.e., wind direction, relative humidity, mixing height, etc.) and identification of Smoke 

Sensitive Areas. Additional DIA plan criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide and potentially state developed technical criteria.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,383.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,383.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 40 $3,383.60
Practice: 160 - Prescribed Burning Design

Scenario: #57 - Prescribed Burning Plan -DIA greater than 251 acres and less than 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Non Industrial Private Forest Land, Pasture or Range Land typically greater than 251 acres and less than 500 acres in size and is dominated by fire tolerant species that are 

competing with undesirable vegetation and accumulating fuel load. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant 

Condition.

Before Situation:

Producer has no existing plan or an obsolete plan that is insufficient for current stand condition. A Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA is needed to enable the producer to 

apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other financial assistance programs in order to implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 394, 383, 

384, 528, 314, 315, 550, 644, 645, 659, 342, 647, 460, 643, 666, 595

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) for development of the Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA. The 

DIA criteria require the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The 

Prescribed Burning Plan DIA is not considered a Forest Management Plan, a Reforestation Plan, a Forest Harvest Plan, or a Prescribed Grazing Plan, but should complement 

the needs of those plans if they exist and if desired by the decision maker. The DIA plan will fully describe all aspects of the prescribed burn including, but not limited to 

objectives of the burn (i.e., site preparation, wildlife habitat, etc.), site conditions (i.e., fuel load, fuel type, etc.), implementation strategies (i.e., method of ignition, 

number of persons required, equipment needs, etc.), tolerable weather parameters (i.e., wind direction, relative humidity, mixing height, etc.) and identification of Smoke 

Sensitive Areas. Additional DIA plan criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide and potentially state developed technical criteria.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,537.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,537.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 30 $2,537.70
Practice: 160 - Prescribed Burning Design

Scenario: #73 - Prescribed Burning Plan (DIA) greater than 101 acres and less than 250 acres

Scenario Description:

Non Industrial Private Forest Land, Pasture or Range Land typically greater that 101 acres in size and less than 250 acres and is dominated by fire tolerant species that are 

competing with undesirable vegetation and accumulating fuel load. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant 

Condition.

Before Situation:

Producer has no existing plan or an obsolete plan that is insufficient for current stand condition. A Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA is needed to enable the producer to 

apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other financial assistance programs in order to implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 394, 383, 

384, 528, 314, 315, 550, 644, 645, 659, 342, 647, 460, 643, 666, 595

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) for development of the Prescribed Burning Plan DIA. The 

DIA criteria require the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The 

Prescribed Burning Plan DIA is not considered a Forest Management Plan, a Reforestation Plan, a Forest Harvest Plan, or a Prescribed Grazing Plan, but should complement 

the needs of those plans if they exist and if desired by the decision maker. The DIA plan will fully describe all aspects of the prescribed burn including, but not limited to 

objectives of the burn (i.e., site preparation, wildlife habitat, etc.), site conditions (i.e., fuel load, fuel type, etc.), implementation strategies (i.e., method of ignition, 

number of persons required, equipment needs, etc.), tolerable weather parameters (i.e., wind direction, relative humidity, mixing height, etc.) and identification of Smoke 

Sensitive Areas. Additional DIA plan criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide and potentially state developed technical criteria.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,114.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,114.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 25 $2,114.75
Practice: 160 - Prescribed Burning Design

Scenario: #89 - Prescribed Burning Plan (DIA) greater than 21 acres and less than 100 acres

Scenario Description:

Non Industrial Private Forest Land, Pasture or Range Land typically greater than 21 acres and less than 100 acres in size and is dominated by fire tolerant species that are 

competing with undesirable vegetation and accumulating fuel load. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant 

Condition.

Before Situation:

Producer has no existing plan or an obsolete plan that is insufficient for current stand condition. A Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA is needed to enable the producer to 

apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other financial assistance programs in order to implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 394, 383, 

384, 528, 314, 315, 550, 644, 645, 659, 342, 647, 460, 643, 666, 595

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) for development of the Prescribed Burning Plan or DIA. The 

DIA criteria require the plan to identify approved Field Office Technical Guide conservation practices where needed to address identified resource concerns. The 

Prescribed Burning Plan DIA is not considered a Forest Management Plan, a Reforestation Plan, a Forest Harvest Plan, or a Prescribed Grazing Plan, but should complement 

the needs of those plans if they exist and if desired by the decision maker. The DIA plan will fully describe all aspects of the prescribed burn including, but not limited to 

objectives of the burn (i.e., site preparation, wildlife habitat, etc.), site conditions (i.e., fuel load, fuel type, etc.), implementation strategies (i.e., method of ignition, 

number of persons required, equipment needs, etc.), tolerable weather parameters (i.e., wind direction, relative humidity, mixing height, etc.) and identification of Smoke 

Sensitive Areas. Additional DIA plan criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide and potentially state developed technical criteria.

Feature Measure: 1

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,691.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,691.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 20 $1,691.80
Practice: 161 - Pest Management Conservation System Design

Scenario: #9 - High Complexity, 5+ CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will implement high complexity conservation practices and PAMS activities as part of an overall Pest Management Conservation 

System. Natural resources relating to CPS 595 Pest Management Conservation System will be addressed. Will address resource concerns with 5 or more, high complexity 

conservation practices and/or PAMS activities.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using few pest management strategies. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation 

requirements and/or designs and specifications for all conservation practices and PAMS activities to address resource concerns. High complexity conservation practices 

may include: prescribed grazing, irrigation water management, diverse conservation plantings and complex practices for such as Agrichemical Handling Facility and 

Vegetated Treatment Area . High Complexity PAMS activities include: field sanitation , intensive scouting etc.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to address resource concerns. All practices installed according to field office technical guide requirements. PAMS 

activities according to IPM plan and Land Grant University guidelines. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,409.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,409.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 40 $3,432.80

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 8 $499.84

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80
Practice: 161 - Pest Management Conservation System Design

Scenario: #25 - High Complexity, 1 -4 CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will implement high complexity conservation practices and PAMS activities as part of an overall Pest Management Conservation 

System. Natural resources relating to CPS 595 Pest Management Conservation System will be addressed. Will address resource concerns with 1 - 4, high complexity 

conservation practices and/or PAMS activities.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using few pest management strategies. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation 

requirements and/or designs and specifications for all conservation practices and PAMS activities to address resource concerns. High complexity conservation practices 

may include: prescribed grazing, irrigation water management, diverse conservation plantings and complex practices for such as Agrichemical Handling Facility and 

Vegetated Treatment Area . High Complexity PAMS activities include: field sanitation , intensive scouting etc.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to address resource concerns. All practices installed according to field office technical guide requirements. PAMS 

activities according to IPM plan and Land Grant University guidelines. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,821.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,821.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 32 $3,472.32

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 32 $2,746.24

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 8 $499.84

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 161 - Pest Management Conservation System Design

Scenario: #41 - Low Complexity, 5+ CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will implement low complexity conservation practices and PAMS activities as part of an overall Pest Management Conservation 

System. Natural resources relating to CPS 595 Pest Management Conservation System will be addressed. Will address resource concerns with 5 or more, low complexity 

conservation practices.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using few pest management strategies. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation 

requirements and/or designs and specifications for all conservation practices and PAMS activities to address resource concerns. Low complexity conservation practices 

may include: cover crop, crop rotation, reduced tillage, conservation plantings and minor structural practices for erosion control such as grass waterways and diversions. 

Low Complexity PAMS activities include: using pest resistant varieties, trap crops, scouting etc.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to address resource concerns. All practices installed according to field office technical guide requirements. PAMS 

activities according to IPM plan and Land Grant University guidelines. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,800.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,800.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 24 $2,604.24

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 24 $2,059.68

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80
Practice: 161 - Pest Management Conservation System Design

Scenario: #57 - Low Complexity 1-4 CPS

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation where producer will implement low complexity conservation practices and PAMS activities as part of an overall Pest Management Conservation 

System. Natural resources relating to CPS 595 Pest Management Conservation System will be addressed. Will address resource concerns with 1 - 4, low complexity 

conservation practices.

Before Situation:

Agricultural operation currently managed using few pest management strategies. The producer will collaborate with a certified TSP to develop implementation 

requirements and/or designs and specifications for all conservation practices and PAMS activities to address resource concerns. Low complexity conservation practices 

may include: cover crop, crop rotation, reduced tillage, conservation plantings and minor structural practices for erosion control such as grass waterways and diversions. 

Low Complexity PAMS activities include: using pest resistant varieties, trap crops, scouting etc.

After Situation:

After NRCS program contract is approved, participant will obtain services from a certified TSP to develop the required implementation requirements and/or designs and 

specifications for all conservation practices required to address resource concerns. All practices installed according to field office technical guide requirements. PAMS 

activities according to IPM plan and Land Grant University guidelines. Implementation requirements, designs and specifications all complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,211.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,211.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #9 - Organic Crops + Livestock, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for up to 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for organic 

crops and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU and can vary in size or acreage depending on soil 

texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has collaborated with a certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,944.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,944.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 64 $6,944.64
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #25 - Crops, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for more than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has a written conservation plan including core soil health practices or has collaborated with a 

certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (CPA 116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,991.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,991.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 46 $4,991.46
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #41 - Crops + Livestock, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for crops 

and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has a written conservation plan including core soil health practices or has collaborated with a 

certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (CPA 116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,425.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,425.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 50 $5,425.50
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #57 - Small Farm

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for a small farm operation of less than 10 acres.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has collaborated with a certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,255.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,255.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 30 $3,255.30
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #73 - Crops, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU and can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has collaborated with a certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,123.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,123.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 38 $4,123.38
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #89 - Organic Crops, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU and can vary in size or acreage depending on soil 

texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has collaborated with a certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (CPA 116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,774.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,774.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 44 $4,774.44
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #105 - Crops + Livestock, <5

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for fewer than 5 Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

crops and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil 

texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has a written conservation plan including core soil health practices or has collaborated with a 

certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (CPA 116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,340.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,340.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #121 - Organic Crops, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on soil texture, 

topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has a written conservation plan including core soil health practices or has collaborated with a 

certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (CPA 116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,510.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,510.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 60 $6,510.60
Practice: 162 - Soil Health Management System Design

Scenario: #137 - Organic Crops + Livestock, 5 or more

Scenario Description:

Evaluate soil health concerns and develop a transitional cropping management plan to improve overall soil health and address all 4 soil health principles. The plan 

includes management activities or land management practices associated with crop and forage production. The soil health management plan ensures that the purposes of 

crop and forage production and preservation of natural resources related to soil health are compatible. May simultaneously implement 216 Soil Health Testing CEMA to 

evaluate baseline soil health and inventory basic or additional soil health indicators. The plan is developed for 5 or more Soil Health Management Units (SHMU) for 

organic crops and livestock. A SHMU is 1 or more planning land units with similar soil type, land use, and management. A SHMU can vary in size or acreage depending on 

soil texture, topography, and cropping system.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management. Producer has a written conservation plan including core soil health practices or has collaborated with a 

certified TSP to develop a written Soil Health Management Plan (CPA 116).

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Soil Health Management Plan consistent with the criteria in DIA 

162. The DIA criteria requires the plan address all 4 soil health principles. Meets the planning criteria for DIA 162 and facilitating soil health practices as referenced in FOTG.

Feature Measure: each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,680.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,680.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 80 $8,680.80
Practice: 163 - Irrigation Water Management Design 

Scenario: #9 - 1-2 Designs - Without Pump Test

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address irrigation water use inefficiency and all other appropriate resource concerns through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) 

irrigation practice scenario. The pump for the irrigation system is of known performance and less then 3 years old. Each 'Design' indicates that new devices or components 

is closely related to other devices or components of the irrigation water management system even if numerous practices are contracted. The Irrigation Water 

Management DIA includes reviewing, and when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified concern(s). The Irrigation Water Management DIA documents: a) 

the client???s final decisions related to the associated irrigation practice scenarios; and b) design deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice 

Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern(s): Insufficient Water - Inefficient Irrigation Water Use; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 

Nutrients transported to surface and groundwater, pesticides transported to surface and groundwater, pathogens and chemicals from manure, and biosolids or compost 

applications transported to surface and groundwater, excess salts in surface and groundwater; Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health; 

Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve irrigation water management on their agricultural operation to address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant 

condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address 

identified resource concerns using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 163 criteria incorporates recommended measures to address insufficient water, water 

quality degradation, degraded plant condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. Associated Practices: Code 449-Irrigation Water Management, Code 441-Irrigation 

System, Microirrigation, Code 442-Sprinkler System, Code 443-Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface, Code 430-Irrigation Pipeline, Code 428-Irrigation Ditch Lining, 

Code 388-Irrigation Field Ditch, Code 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral, Code 587-Structure for Water Control, Code 436-Irrigation Reservoir, Code 447-Irrigation and Drainage 

Tailwater Recovery, Code 533-Pumping Plant, Code 464-Irrigation Land Leveling, Code 450-Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) Application, Code 610-Saline and Sodic Soil 

Management, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 163 criteria include 

tasks needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant 

condition, or inefficient energy use. The Irrigation Water Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 164 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical 

Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,006.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,006.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 8 $983.12

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 8 $686.56
Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 16 $999.68

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40
Practice: 163 - Irrigation Water Management Design 

Scenario: #25 - 3 or More Designs - Without Pump Test

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address irrigation water use inefficiency and all other appropriat resource concerns through an EQIP contract with multiple irrigation 

practice scenario. The pump for the irrigation system is of known performance and less then 3 years old. Each 'Design' indicates that new devices or components is closely 

related to other decives or components of the irrigation water management system even if numerous practices are contracted. The Irrigation Water Management DIA 

includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified concern(s). The Irrigation Water Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final 

decisions related to the associated irrigation practice scenarios; and b) design deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. 

Natural Resource Concern(s): Insufficient Water - Inefficient Irrigation Water Use; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, Nutrients transported 

to surface and groundwater, pesticides transported to surface and groundwater, pathogens and chemicals from manure, and biosolids or compost applications 

transported to surface and groundwater, excess salts in surface and groundwater; Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health; Inefficient Energy 

Use - Equipment and facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve irrigation water management on their agricultural operation to address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant 

condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. Producer intends to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address 

identified resource concerns using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 163 criteria incorporates recommended measures to address insufficient water, water 

quality degradation, degraded plant condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. Associated Practices: Associated Practices: Code 449-Irrigation Water Management, 

Code 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, Code 442-Sprinkler System, Code 443-Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface, Code 430-Irrigation Pipeline, Code 428-

Irrigation Ditch Lining, Code 388-Irrigation Field Ditch, Code 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral, Code 587-Structure for Water Control, Code 436-Irrigation Reservoir, Code 447-

Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery, Code 533-Pumping Plant, Code 464-Irrigation Land Leveling, Code 450-Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) Application, Code 610-

Saline and Sodic Soil Management, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Drainage Water Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria include tasks 

needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address water quality, plant condition, or soil health. The Drainage Water 

Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 164 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,417.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,417.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 16 $1,966.24

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 56 $5,976.32

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12
Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 32 $1,999.36

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 163 - Irrigation Water Management Design 

Scenario: #41 - 1-2 Designs - With Pump Test

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address irrigation water use inefficiency and all other appropriat resource concerns through an EQIP contract with multiple irrigation 

practice scenario through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) irrigation practice scenario. The pump for the irrigation system is of unknown performance and older than 

3 years. Each 'Design' indicates that new devices or components is closely related to other devices or components of the irrigation water managment system even if 

numerous practices are contracted. The Irrigation Water Management DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified 

concern(s). The Irrigation Water Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated irrigation practice scenarios; and b) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern(s): Insufficient Water - Inefficient Irrigation Water 

Use; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, Nutrients transported to surface and groundwater, pesticides transported to surface and 

groundwater, pathogens and chemicals from manure, and biosolids or compost applications transported to surface and groundwater, excess salts in surface and 

groundwater; Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health; Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve irrigation water management on their agricultural operation to address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant 

condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. The pump for the irrigation system is of unknown performance and older than 3 years. Producer intends to work with a 

certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address identified resource concerns using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 

163 criteria incorporates recommended measures to address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. 

Associated Practices: Code 449-Irrigation Water Management, Code 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, Code 442-Sprinkler System, Code 443-Irrigation System, Surface 

and Subsurface, Code 430-Irrigation Pipeline, Code 428-Irrigation Ditch Lining, Code 388-Irrigation Field Ditch, Code 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral, Code 587-Structure for 

Water Control, Code 436-Irrigation Reservoir, Code 447-Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery, Code 533-Pumping Plant, Code 464-Irrigation Land Leveling, Code 450-

Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) Application, Code 610-Saline and Sodic Soil Management, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 163 criteria include 

tasks needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded 

plant condition, or inefficient energy use. The Irrigation Water Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 163 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office 

Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,339.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,339.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 8 $983.12

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 48 $5,122.56

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 8 $686.56
Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 16 $999.68

CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 12 $479.64

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40
Practice: 163 - Irrigation Water Management Design 

Scenario: #57 - 3 or More Designs - With Pump Test

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address irrigation water use inefficiency and all other appropriat resource concerns through an EQIP contract with multiple irrigation 

practice scenario through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) irrigation practice scenario. The pump for the irrigation system is of unknown performance and older than 

3 years. Each 'Design' indicates that new devices or components is closely related to other devices or components of the irrigation water management system even if 

numerous practices are contracted. The Irrigation Water Management DIA includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified 

concern(s). The Irrigation Water Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated irrigation practice scenarios; and b) design 

deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern(s): Insufficient Water - Inefficient Irrigation Water 

Use; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, Nutrients transported to surface and groundwater, pesticides transported to surface and 

groundwater, pathogens and chemicals from manure, and biosolids or compost applications transported to surface and groundwater, excess salts in surface and 

groundwater; Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health; Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve irrigation water management on their agricultureal operation to address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant 

condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. The pump for the irrigation system is of unknown performance and older than 3 years. Producer intends to work with a 

certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address identified resource concerns using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 

163 criteria incorporates recommended measures toaddress insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant condition, or inefficient energy use concerns. 

Associated Practices: Code 449-Irrigation Water Management, Code 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, Code 442-Sprinkler System, Code 443-Irrigation System, Surface 

and Subsurface, Code 430-Irrigation Pipeline, Code 428-Irrigation Ditch Lining, Code 388-Irrigation Field Ditch, Code 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral, Code 587-Structure for 

Water Control, Code 436-Irrigation Reservoir, Code 447-Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery, Code 533-Pumping Plant, Code 464-Irrigation Land Leveling, Code 450-

Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) Application, Code 610-Saline and Sodic Soil Management, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Irrigation Water Management DIA. The DIA 163 criteria include 

tasks needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address insufficient water, water quality degradation, degraded plant 

condition, or inefficient energy use. The Irrigation Water Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 163 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical 

Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,230.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13,230.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 16 $1,966.24

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 64 $6,830.08

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12
Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 32 $1,999.36

CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 24 $959.28

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 164 - Improved Management of Drainage Water Design

Scenario: #9 - 1-2 Designs - Tile Map Available

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address water quality degradation, poor plant productivity and health, and/or oxidation of organic matter in soils on a relatively flat 

crop field with a patterned drainage system through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) drainage practice scenario. A map of the tile system is available. Each 'Design??? 

indicates that each new device or component is closely related to other devices or components of the drainage water management system even if numerous practices are 

contracted. The Drainage Water Management DIA includes reviewing, and when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified concern(s). The Drainage Water 

Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated drainage practice scenarios; and b) design deliverables described in the associated 

NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern(s): Water Quality - Excess nutrients in surface and groundwaters, Plant Condition - Plant 

Productivity and Health, and Soil Health - Subsidence.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve drainage water management on their agricultural operation to address water quality, plant condition, or soil health concerns. Producer intends 

to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address identified resource concerns using the Drainage Water 

Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria incorporates recommended measures to increase water quality, plant condition, or soil health. Associated Practices: 554-Drainage 

Water Management, 604-Saturated Buffer, 605-Denitrifying Bioreactor, 606-Subsurface Drain, 607-Surface Drain, Field Ditch, 608-Surface Drain, Main or Lateral, 587-

Structure for Water Control, 590-Nutrient Management, 340-Cover Crop, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Drainage Water Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria include tasks 

needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address water quality, plant condition, or soil health. The Drainage Water 

Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 164 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,839.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,839.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 8 $983.12

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 32 $3,415.04

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 16 $999.68
CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.202 $68.40
Practice: 164 - Improved Management of Drainage Water Design

Scenario: #25 - 3 or More Designs - Tile Map Available

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address water quality degradation, poor plant productivity and health, and/or oxidation of organic matter in soils on a relatively flat 

crop field with a patterned drainage system through an EQIP contract with multiple drainage practice scenario. A map of the tile system is available. Each 'Design??? 

indicates that each new device or component is closely related to other devices or components of the drainage water management system even if numerous practices are 

contracted. The Drainage Water Management DIA includes reviewing, and when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified concern(s). The Drainage Water 

Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated drainage practice scenarios; and b) design deliverables described in the associated 

NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern(s): Water Quality - Excess nutrients in surface and groundwaters, Plant Condition - Plant 

Productivity and Health, and Soil Health - Subsidence.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve drainage water management on their agricultural operation to address water quality, plant condition, or soil health concerns. Producer intends 

to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address identified resource concerns using the Drainage Water 

Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria incorporates recommended measures to increase water quality, plant condition, or soil health. Associated Practices: 554-Drainage 

Water Management, 604-Saturated Buffer, 605-Denitrifying Bioreactor, 606-Subsurface Drain, 607-Surface Drain, Field Ditch, 608-Surface Drain, Main or Lateral, 587-

Structure for Water Control, 590-Nutrient Management, 340-Cover Crop, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Drainage Water Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria include tasks 

needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address water quality, plant condition, or soil health. The Drainage Water 

Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 164 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,750.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,750.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 16 $1,966.24

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 48 $5,122.56

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 24 $2,059.68

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 24 $1,499.52
CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.203 $102.60
Practice: 164 - Improved Management of Drainage Water Design

Scenario: #41 - 1-2 Designs - No Tile Map Available

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address water quality degradation, poor plant productivity and health, and/or oxidation of organic matter in soils on a relatively flat 

crop field with a patterned drainage system through an EQIP contract with at least one (1) drainage practice scenario. A map of the tile system is not available. Each 

'Design??? indicates that each new device or component is closely related to other devices or components of the drainage water management system even if numerous 

practices are contracted. The Drainage Water Management DIA includes reviewing, and when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified concern(s). The 

Drainage Water Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final decisions related to the associated drainage practice scenarios; and b) design deliverables described in 

the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. Natural Resource Concern(s): Water Quality - Excess nutrients in surface and groundwaters, Plant 

Condition - Plant Productivity and Health, and Soil Health - Subsidence.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve drainage water management on their agricultural operation to address water quality, plant condition, or soil health concerns. Producer intends 

to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address identified resource concerns using the Drainage Water 

Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria incorporates recommended measures to increase water quality, plant condition, or soil health. Associated Practices: 554-Drainage 

Water Management, 604-Saturated Buffer, 605-Denitrifying Bioreactor, 606-Subsurface Drain, 607-Surface Drain, Field Ditch, 608-Surface Drain, Main or Lateral, 587-

Structure for Water Control, 590-Nutrient Management, 340-Cover Crop, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Drainage Water Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria include tasks 

needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address water quality, plant condition, or soil health. The Drainage Water 

Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 164 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,315.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,315.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 16 $1,966.24

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 16 $999.68
CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 16 $639.52

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40
Practice: 164 - Improved Management of Drainage Water Design

Scenario: #57 - 3 or More Designs - No Tile Map Available

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to address water quality degradation, poor plant productivity and health, and/or oxidation of organic matter in soils on a relatively flat 

crop field with a patterned drainage system through an EQIP contract with multiple drainage practice scenario. A map of the tile system is not available. Each 'Design' 

indicates that new devices or components are closely related to other devices or components of the drainage water management system even if numerous designs are 

contracted. If more than one practice is contracted, then '2-5 Designs' shall be contracted for the Drainage Water Management DIA. The Drainage Water Management DIA 

includes reviewing, and, when needed, revising alternatives to address the identified concern(s). The Drainage Water Management DIA documents: a) the client???s final 

decisions related to the associated drainage practice scenarios; and b) design deliverables described in the associated NRCS Conservation Practice Statements of Work. 

Natural Resource Concern(s): Water Quality - Excess nutrients in surface and groundwaters, Plant Condition - Plant Productivity and Health, and Soil Health - Subsidence.

Before Situation:

Producer wants to improve drainage water management on their agricultural operation to address water quality, plant condition, or soil health concerns. Producer intends 

to work with a certified TSP to develop designs to implement one or more practice scenarios to address identified resource concerns using the Drainage Water 

Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria incorporates recommended measures to increase water quality, plant condition, or soil health. Associated Practices: 554-Drainage 

Water Management, 604-Saturated Buffer, 605-Denitrifying Bioreactor, 606-Subsurface Drain, 607-Surface Drain, Field Ditch, 608-Surface Drain, Main or Lateral, 587-

Structure for Water Control, 590-Nutrient Management, 340-Cover Crop, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop practice scenario designs using the Drainage Water Management DIA. The DIA 164 criteria include tasks 

needed to document the client???s decisions and design of conservation practices which address water quality, plant condition, or soil health. The Drainage Water 

Management DIA meets the quality criteria for the DIA 164 activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,709.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,709.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 16 $1,966.24

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 48 $5,122.56

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 24 $2,059.68

Cap Labor, Survey and Mapping 1591

Technician

Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.

Hours $62.48 24 $1,499.52
CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 24 $959.28

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60
Practice: 165 - Forest Management Practice Design

Scenario: #9 - DIA Less Than or Equal to 20 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 1 to 20 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Design and Implementation Activities is needed to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to develop implementation 

requirements for conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Design and Implementation Activities 

(DIA). The DIA criteria requires the design of site-specific forestry activities as a component of a forest management plan to address identified resource concerns. 

Additional DIA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $422.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $422.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 5 $422.95
Practice: 165 - Forest Management Practice Design

Scenario: #25 - DIA 501 to 1000 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 501 to 1000 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed 

species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Design and Implementation Activities is needed to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to develop implementation 

requirements for conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Design and Implementation Activities 

(DIA). The DIA criteria requires the design of site-specific forestry activities as a component of a forest management plan to address identified resource concerns. 

Additional DIA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,607.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,607.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 19 $1,607.21
Practice: 165 - Forest Management Practice Design

Scenario: #41 - DIA 101 to 250 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 101 to 250 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Design and Implementation Activities is needed to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to develop implementation 

requirements for conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Design and Implementation Activities 

(DIA). The DIA criteria requires the design of site-specific forestry activities as a component of a forest management plan to address identified resource concerns. 

Additional DIA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,015.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,015.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 12 $1,015.08
Practice: 165 - Forest Management Practice Design

Scenario: #57 - DIA Greater Than 1000 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 1001 acres or greater in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed 

species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Design and Implementation Activities is needed to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to develop implementation 

requirements for conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Design and Implementation Activities 

(DIA). The DIA criteria requires the design of site-specific forestry activities as a component of a forest management plan to address identified resource concerns. 

Additional DIA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,945.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,945.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 23 $1,945.57
Practice: 165 - Forest Management Practice Design

Scenario: #73 - DIA 251 to 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 251 to 500 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Design and Implementation Activities is needed to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to develop implementation 

requirements for conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Design and Implementation Activities 

(DIA). The DIA criteria requires the design of site-specific forestry activities as a component of a forest management plan to address identified resource concerns. 

Additional DIA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,353.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,353.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 16 $1,353.44
Practice: 165 - Forest Management Practice Design

Scenario: #89 - DIA 21 to 100 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 21 to 100 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Design and Implementation Activities is needed to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other programs to develop implementation 

requirements for conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a certified TSP for development of the Forest Management Design and Implementation Activities 

(DIA). The DIA criteria requires the design of site-specific forestry activities as a component of a forest management plan to address identified resource concerns. 

Additional DIA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $676.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $676.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 8 $676.72
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #25 - Small Farm - less than or equal to 10 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The small farm planning scenario involves combinations of various specialty crops, small fruits, tree and vine crops, and small livestock enterprises 

on less than or equal to 10 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, or (if applicable 

to the enterprise) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,311.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,311.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 10 $1,085.10

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 8 $853.76

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 16 $1,373.12
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #41 - Low Complexity Plan, <200 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use and one agricultural enterprise covering up to less than 200 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, or (if applicable 

to the enterprise) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,208.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,208.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 8 $868.08

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 12 $1,280.64

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 24 $2,059.68
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #57 - Low Complexity Plan, 200-1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use and one agricultural enterprise covering 200-1,000 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, or (if applicable 

to the enterprise) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,189.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,189.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 32 $2,746.24
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #73 - Low Complexity Plan, >1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use and one agricultural enterprise covering more than 1,000 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, or (if applicable 

to the enterprise) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,249.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,249.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 56 $4,805.92
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #89 - Medium Complexity Plan, <200 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use with two agricultural enterprises, or two land uses with one agricultural enterprise (ex. farmstead 

and cropland used for a dairy enterprise) covering less than 200 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, and/or (if 

applicable to the enterprises) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,189.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,189.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 32 $2,746.24
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #105 - Medium Complexity Plan, 200-1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use with two agricultural enterprises, or two land uses with one agricultural enterprise (ex. farmstead 

and cropland used for a dairy enterprise) covering 200-1000 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, and/or (if 

applicable to the enterprises) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,249.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,249.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 56 $4,805.92
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #121 - Medium Complexity Plan, >1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use with two agricultural enterprises, or two land uses with one agricultural enterprise (ex. farmstead 

and cropland used for a dairy enterprise) covering more than 1,000 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, and/or (if 

applicable to the enterprises) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,053.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,053.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 18 $1,953.18

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 18 $1,920.96

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 72 $6,179.04
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #137 - High Complexity Plan, <200 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use supporting three or more agricultural enterprises, two land uses supporting two or more agricultural 

enterprises, or three or more land uses and any number of enterprises on up to less than 200 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, and/or (if 

applicable to the enterprises) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,249.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,249.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 16 $1,736.16

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 56 $4,805.92
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #153 - High Complexity Plan, 200-1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves three or more agricultural enterprises, two land uses supporting two or more agricultural enterprises, or three or 

more land uses and any number of enterprises on 200-1000 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, and/or (if 

applicable to the enterprises) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,053.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,053.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 18 $1,953.18

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 18 $1,920.96

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 72 $6,179.04
Practice: 199 - Conservation Plan

Scenario: #169 - High Complexity Plan, >1,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a Farm Bill program contract. The TSP completes NRCS conservation 

planning process, steps 1 through 7 as described in NRCS National Planning Procedures Handbook. The steps identify problems and opportunities (step 1), determine 

objectives (step 2), include inventory and analyze resources (steps 3 and 4), formulate and evaluate alternatives (steps 5 and 6) and document client???s preferred 

alternative(s) (step 7). The Planning Land Unit involves one land use supporting three or more agricultural enterprises, two land uses supporting two or more agricultural 

enterprises, or three or more land uses and any number of enterprises on more than 1,000 acres.

Before Situation:

Client and NRCS have identified a need to develop a conservation plan to address resource concern(s) using a Technical Service Provider.

After Situation:

TSP has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop at least one conservation system alternative for each planning land unit that meet the producer's 

objectives; and obtain the client's decision for a schedule of practices to implement. TSP provides deliverables that meet the requirements of the CPA 199, and/or (if 

applicable to the enterprises) the requirements of conservation activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,600.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,600.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 22 $2,387.22

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 22 $2,347.84

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 80 $6,865.60
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #1 - Data Collect Surface Year 1 plus - NO QAPP

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for surface run-off for one control and one treatment site. The scenario requires 

the collection and analysis of edge-of-field water quality data with an average sample collection of 20 per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate 

parameters (2 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 240 total water quality tests). The data will be transferred through semi-annual submittal and annual report which 

include some preliminary annual analysis. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 to next to the last year of monitoring of the contract when a monitoring plan and 

QAPP will be not prepared as this is for an existing monitoring system that has been accepted as meeting both Activity 201 and 202. THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED 

SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness.

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and one treatment site. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared as part of an existing 

monitoring system installation where the QAPP and monitoring plan meets Activity 201 requirements and no major changes are needed to meet Activity 202 

requirements. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201. 

Feature Measure: Measuring Site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $22,515.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22,515.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 130 $4,149.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 60 $6,470.40

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 4 $195.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 240 $11,700.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #142 - Data Collect Tile Year 1-QAPP

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for tile and subsurface drainage run-off for one control and one 

treatment site with an average of 40 samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 40 samples x 6 parameters = 480 total 

water quality tests). A subsurface system also requires the addition of a surface sampling system at the same outlet to capture overland flow with 20 samples per year, 

with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 240 total water quality tests). Without the surface system then not all runoff 

is captured for calculating a true event mean concentration as per the 201 Standard. The scenario requires the creation of a survey to site a monitoring station, 

preparation of monitoring plan and a quality assurance project plan to detail how data will be collected, handled and analyzed, provides for the data collection, analysis, 

semiannual report, and annual report. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP need to be prepared prior to 

installation under Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring - System Installation (202). THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON 

DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will not have a plan or quality assurance project plan prepared for installing equipment nor collecting data for 

sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual report, and annual report for one control and 

one treatment site. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared prior to installation under Edge-ofField Water Quality Monitoring - System Installation (202). The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of 

nutrients as listed in 201. 

Feature Measure: Measuring Site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $63,545.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $63,545.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 312 $9,959.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 166 $17,901.44

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 12 $585.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 720 $35,100.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #149 - Data Collect Tile Year 1+ less QAPP (pre-install information) with two treatment sites

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for tile and subsurface drainage run-off for one control and two 

treatment sites with an average of 40 samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (3 sites x 40 samples x 6 parameters = 720 total 

water quality tests). A subsurface system also requires the addition of a surface sampling system at the same outlet to capture overland flow with 20 samples per year, 

with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (3 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 360 total water quality tests). Without the surface system then not all runoff 

is captured for calculating a true event mean concentration as per the 201 Standard. The data will be transferred through semi-annual submittal and annual reports, 

which include some preliminary annual analysis. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP will not be prepared as 

this is for an existing monitoring system be accepted as meeting both Activity 201 and 202. THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT 

ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and two treatment sites. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared as part of an existing 

monitoring system installation where the QAPP and monitoring plan meets Activity 201 requirements and no major changes are needed to meet Activity 202 

requirements. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201. 

Feature Measure: Measuring site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $79,704.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $79,704.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 364 $11,618.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 135 $14,558.40

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 18 $877.50

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 1080 $52,650.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #156 - Data Collect Tile Year 1 plus - NO QAPP

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for tile and subsurface drainage run-off for one control and one 

treatment site with an average of 40 samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 40 samples x 6 parameters = 480 total 

water quality tests). A subsurface system also requires the addition of a surface sampling system at the same outlet to capture overland flow with 20 samples per year, 

with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 240 total water quality tests). Without the surface system then not all runoff 

is captured for calculating a true event mean concentration as per the 201 Standard. The data will be transferred through semi-annual submittal and annual reports, 

which include some preliminary annual analysis. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 to next to the last year of monitoring of the contract when a monitoring 

plan and QAPP will be not prepared as this is for an existing monitoring system be accepted as meeting both Activity 201 and 202. THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION 

IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and one treatment site. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared as part of an existing 

monitoring system installation where the QAPP and monitoring plan meets Activity 201 requirements and no major changes are needed to meet Activity 202 

requirements. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201.

Feature Measure: Measuring Site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $55,349.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $55,349.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 312 $9,959.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 90 $9,705.60

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 12 $585.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 720 $35,100.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #163 - Data Collect Tile Last Year with two treatment sites

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for tile and subsurface drainage run-off for one control and two 

treatment sites with an average of 40 samples per year per station with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (3 sites x 40 samples x 6 parameters = 720 total 

water quality tests). A subsurface system also requires the addition of a surface sampling system at the same outlet to capture overland flow with 20 samples per year 

with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (3 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 360 total water quality tests). Without the surface system then not all runoff 

is captured for calculating a true event mean concentration as per the 201 Standard. The scenario requires the collection and analysis of edge-of-field water quality data 

along with a comprehensive report to statistically prove relationship between select conservation practices and water quality. The data will be transferred through semiannual submittal and annual report and a comprehensive report of practice effectiveness. This scenario will be used in the last year of monitoring. THIS IS PLACED IN A 

PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and two treatment sites. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201 to provide a 

comprehensive report of statistical testing of data collected during to complete monitoring period. 

Feature Measure: Measuring site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $86,175.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $86,175.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 364 $11,618.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 195 $21,028.80

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 18 $877.50

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 1080 $52,650.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #170 - Data Collect Tile Last Year

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for tile and subsurface drainage run-off for one control and one 

treatment site with an average of 40 samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 40 samples x 6 parameters = 480 total 

water quality tests). A subsurface system also requires the addition of a surface sampling system at the same outlet to capture overland flow with 20 samples per year, 

with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 240 total water quality tests). Without the surface system then not all runoff 

is captured for calculating a true event mean concentration as per the 201 Standard. The scenario requires the collection and analysis of edge-of-field water quality data 

along with a comprehensive report to statistically prove relationship between select conservation practices and water quality. The data will be transferred through semiannual submittal and annual report and a comprehensive report of practice effectiveness. This scenario will be used in the last year of monitoring. THIS IS PLACED IN A 

PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and one treatment site. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201 to provide a 

comprehensive report of statistical testing of data collected during to complete monitoring period.

Feature Measure: Measuring site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $59,663.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $59,663.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 312 $9,959.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 130 $14,019.20

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 12 $585.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 720 $35,100.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #177 - Data Collect Surface Year 1-QAPP with two treatment Sites

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for surface run-off for one control and two treatment sites with an 

average of 20 samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (3 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 360 total water quality tests). The 

scenario requires the creation of a survey to site a monitoring station, preparation of monitoring plan and a quality assurance project plan to detail how data will be 

collected, handled and analyzed, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual report, and annual report. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the 

contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP need to be prepared prior to installation under Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring - System Installation (202). THIS IS 

PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will not have a plan or quality assurance project plan prepared for installing equipment nor collecting data for 

sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual report, and annual report for one control and 

one treatment site. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared prior to installation under Edge-ofField Water Quality Monitoring - System Installation (202). The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of 

nutrients as listed in 201. 

Feature Measure: Measuring Sites

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $42,664.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42,664.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 156 $4,979.52

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 184 $19,842.56

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 6 $292.50

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 360 $17,550.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #184 - Data Collect Surface Year 1-QAPP

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the design and use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for surface run-off for one control and one treatment site with an 

average of 20 samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 240 total water quality tests). The 

scenario requires the creation of a survey to site a monitoring station, preparation of monitoring plan and a quality assurance project plan to detail how data will be 

collected, handled and analyzed, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual report, and annual report. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the 

contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP need to be prepared prior to installation under Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring - System Installation (202). THIS IS 

PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will not have a plan or quality assurance project plan prepared for installing equipment nor collecting data for 

sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual report, and annual report for one control and 

one treatment site. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared prior to installation under Edge-ofField Water Quality Monitoring - System Installation (202). The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of 

nutrients as listed in 201. 

Feature Measure: Measuring Sites

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $30,710.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $30,710.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 130 $4,149.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 136 $14,666.24

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 4 $195.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 240 $11,700.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #193 - Data Collect Surface Year 1+ less QAPP (pre-install information) with two treatment sites

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for surface run-off for one control and two treatment sites. The scenario requires 

the collection and analysis of edge-of-field water quality data with an average sample collection of 20 per year for each surface system, with each sample analyzed for 6 

separate parameters (3 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 360 total water quality tests). The data will be transferred through semi-annual submittal and annual report, 

which include some preliminary annual analysis. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP will not be prepared as 

this is for an existing monitoring system be accepted as meeting both Activity 201 and 202. THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE 

ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semi-annual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and two treatment sites. This scenario will normally be used in year 1 of the contract when a monitoring plan and QAPP have been prepared as part of an existing 

monitoring system installation where the QAPP and monitoring plan meets Activity 201 requirements and no major changes are needed to meet Activity 202 

requirements. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201.

Feature Measure: Measuring site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $32,527.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32,527.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 156 $4,979.52

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 90 $9,705.60

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 6 $292.50

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 360 $17,550.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #200 - Data Collect Surface Last Year

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for surface run-off for one control and one treatment site with an average of 20 

samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (2 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 240 total water quality tests). The scenario 

requires the collection and analysis of edge-of-field water quality data along with a comprehensive report to statistically prove relationship between select conservation 

practices and water quality. The data will be transferred through semi-annual submittal and annual report and a comprehensive report of practice effectiveness. This 

scenario will be used in the last year of monitoring. THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS 

THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and one treatment site. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201 to provide a 

comprehensive report of statistical testing of data collected to complete monitoring period.

Feature Measure: Measuring Site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,828.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $26,828.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 130 $4,149.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 100 $10,784.00

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 4 $195.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 240 $11,700.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #207 - Data Collect Surface Last Year with two treatment sites

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario provides for the use of an edge-of-field WQ monitoring station(s) for surface run-off for one control and two treatment sites with an average of 20 

samples per year per station, with each sample analyzed for 6 separate parameters (3 sites x 20 samples x 6 parameters = 360 total water quality tests). The scenario 

requires the collection and analysis of edge-of-field water quality data along with a comprehensive report to statistically prove relationship between select conservation 

practices and water quality. The data will be transferred through semi-annual submittal and annual report and a comprehensive report of practice effectiveness. This 

scenario will be used in the last year of monitoring. THIS IS PLACED IN A PAIRED SITUATION IF THE CONTROL AND TREATMENT ARE ON DIFFERENT LANDOWNERS FIELDS 

THEN A JOINT CONTRACT WILL BE NECESSARY.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing this practice will have an existing system for collecting water quality data but not have been operating with a long enough 

time frame to measure practice effectiveness. 

After Situation:

This practice scenario after installation of the WQ monitoring stations, provides for the data collection, analysis, semiannual submittal, and annual report for one control 

and two treatment sites. The operator will be able to collect field level water quality data of sufficient quality to measure loss of nutrients as listed in 201 to provide a 

comprehensive report of statistical testing of data collected during to complete monitoring period. 

Feature Measure: Measuring site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $38,998.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $38,998.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 156 $4,979.52

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 150 $16,176.00

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 6 $292.50

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 360 $17,550.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #219 - Data Collect - Discrete Sampling, Year 1, Single Parameter

Scenario Description:

This scenario is to be used for targeted, periodic WQ grab sampling design and implementation for evaluating and assessing conservation practice performance. This 

scenario provides for collection and analysis of one of the following water quality constituents: Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble Reactive P 

(Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment Concentration, or Total Suspended Solids. A monitoring plan is created by a qualified individual to achieve 

monitoring goals. Event-based or regularly re-occurring grab samples are acquired from the concentrated flow streams at 2 locations, typically in a before-and-after or a 

side-by-side sampling design and then analyzed at a laboratory.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to implementing this activity will not have a monitoring plan prepared for evaluating and assessing the performance of a conservation 

practice.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after implementing this activity will have produced and implemented a water quality monitoring plan for a single water quality constituent to 

evaluate and assess the performance of a conservation practice with respect to that constituent.

Feature Measure: Measuring sites

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,753.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,753.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 72 $2,298.24

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 16 $1,725.44

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 8 $390.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 48 $2,340.00
Practice: 201 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-Data Collection and Evaluation

Scenario: #235 - Data Collect - Discrete Sampling, Single Parameter, Additional Year

Scenario Description:

This scenario extends, by an additional year, discreet WQ grab sampling design and implementation for evaluating and assessing conservation practice performance. This 

scenario provides for analysis of one of the following water quality constituents: Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble Reactive P 

(Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment Concentration, or Total Suspended Solids. A monitoring plan is created by a qualified individual to achieve 

monitoring goals. Event-based or regularly re-occurring synoptic grab samples are acquired from the concentrated flow streams at 2 locations, typically in a before-andafter or a side-by-side sampling design and then analyzed at a laboratory.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to implementing this activity will not have a monitoring plan prepared for evaluating and assessing the performance of a conservation 

practice.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after implementing this activity will have produced and implemented a water quality monitoring plan for a single water quality constituent to 

evaluate and assess the performance of a conservation practice with respect to that constituent.

Feature Measure: Measuring Sites

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,459.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,459.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 72 $2,298.24

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Testing, Blanks Samples 2612 Blanks or Duplicate Samples; Includes materials only. Each $48.75 8 $390.00

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 48 $2,340.00
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #103 - System Installation-Tile Cold Climate

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with tile or other subsurface drainage runoff 

that can be captured and sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The component monitoring equipment are 

associated with a typical system for northern latitudes where winter time heating is required for sampling. It will allow for installation of automated sampling data 

collection system for a subsurface collection and separate surface automated sample collection system with protective housing to reduce potential for vandalism, battery 

backup for operation during periods when electricity is down or solar panels are not creating an electrical current, an area velocity sensor for pipe flow and estimation of 

submerged flow, a calf hut or other structure with heat is required over the flume to allow sampling under northern latitude winter conditions and a berm or other 

directional flow structure to guide the runoff to a sampling flume. 

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing the monitoring equipment is guessing about the effects of the conservation system with regards to meeting practice intent of 

avoid, controlling, or trapping sediment and nutrients. Nothing is known about the volume or mass of sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field through the tile or 

other subsurface drainage system. 

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $38,744.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $38,744.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 100 $3,192.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Heater, high efficiency 1165 Natural gas, propane, or fuel oil unit heater or boiler and venting 

materials. Based on input kBTU/hour. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

1,000 $22.00 1 $22.00

BTU/Hour

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Automated sampler with bottles 2606

and tubing

Equipment used to collect the water samples on a flow weighted 

interval of 1.27 mm of runoff (volumetric depth) during a storm event.

Each $2,555.63 2 $5,111.26

Connectors, cables, platform 2607

materials

Miscellaneous (connectors, cables, berm, platform materials); Includes 

materials only.

Each $9,638.96 1 $9,638.96

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 2 $7,290.30

Equipment shelter 2609 Building designed to house and reduce the risk of equipment damage 

from weather, animals, and vandalism.

Each $1,734.29 2 $3,468.58
Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 1 $3,010.00

Pre-calibrated flow control 2615

structure-subsurface (pipe flow)

Equipment used to collect runoff for ease in measure of flow, sample 

collection and to reduce time in constructing and calibrating of a flow 

structure.

Each $1,006.08 1 $1,006.08

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63

Equipment Shed 2617 Equipment shed (10 x 10 foot) made of steel applied over the sampling 

flume to allow collection of water samples during the winter in colder 

climates.

Each $768.07 1 $768.07
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #112 - System Installation-Tile

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with tile or other subsurface drainage runoff 

that can be captured and sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The component monitoring equipment are 

associated with a typical system for southern latitudes where winter time heating is not required for sampling. It will allow for installation of automated sampling data 

collection system for a subsurface collection and separate surface automated sample collection system with protective housing to reduce potential for vandalism, battery 

backup for operation during periods when electricity is down or solar panels are not creating an electrical current, an area velocity sensor for pipe flow and estimation of 

submerged flow, and a berm or other directional flow structure to guide the runoff to a sampling flume. 

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing the monitoring equipment is guessing about the effects of the conservation system with regards to meeting practice intent of 

avoid, controlling, or trapping sediment and nutrients. Nothing is known about the volume or mass of sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field through the tile or 

other subsurface drainage system. 

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $38,744.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $38,744.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 100 $3,192.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Heater, high efficiency 1165 Natural gas, propane, or fuel oil unit heater or boiler and venting 

materials. Based on input kBTU/hour. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

1,000 $22.00 1 $22.00

BTU/Hour

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Automated sampler with bottles 2606

and tubing

Equipment used to collect the water samples on a flow weighted 

interval of 1.27 mm of runoff (volumetric depth) during a storm event.

Each $2,555.63 2 $5,111.26

Connectors, cables, platform 2607

materials

Miscellaneous (connectors, cables, berm, platform materials); Includes 

materials only.

Each $9,638.96 1 $9,638.96

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 2 $7,290.30

Equipment shelter 2609 Building designed to house and reduce the risk of equipment damage 

from weather, animals, and vandalism.

Each $1,734.29 2 $3,468.58
Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 1 $3,010.00

Pre-calibrated flow control 2615

structure-subsurface (pipe flow)

Equipment used to collect runoff for ease in measure of flow, sample 

collection and to reduce time in constructing and calibrating of a flow 

structure.

Each $1,006.08 1 $1,006.08

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63

Equipment Shed 2617 Equipment shed (10 x 10 foot) made of steel applied over the sampling 

flume to allow collection of water samples during the winter in colder 

climates.

Each $768.07 1 $768.07
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #119 - System Installation-Surface Cold Climate

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with surface runoff that can be captured and 

sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The component monitoring equipment are associated with a typical system 

for northern latitudes where winter time heating is required for sampling. It will allow for installation of automated sampling data collection system with protective 

housing to reduce potential for vandalism, battery backup for operation during periods when electricity is down or solar panels are not creating an electrical current, a calf 

hut or other structure with heat is required over the flume to allow sampling under northern latitude winter conditions, and a berm or other directional flow structure to 

guide the runoff to a sampling flume. 

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing the monitoring equipment is guessing about the effects of the conservation system with regards to meeting practice intent of 

avoid, controlling, or trapping sediment and nutrients. Nothing is known about the volume or mass of sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field through the tile or 

other subsurface drainage system. 

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $28,418.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $28,418.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Heater, high efficiency 1165 Natural gas, propane, or fuel oil unit heater or boiler and venting 

materials. Based on input kBTU/hour. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

1,000 $22.00 1 $22.00

BTU/Hour

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Automated sampler with bottles 2606

and tubing

Equipment used to collect the water samples on a flow weighted 

interval of 1.27 mm of runoff (volumetric depth) during a storm event.

Each $2,555.63 1 $2,555.63

Connectors, cables, platform 2607

materials

Miscellaneous (connectors, cables, berm, platform materials); Includes 

materials only.

Each $9,638.96 1 $9,638.96

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 1 $3,645.15

Equipment shelter 2609 Building designed to house and reduce the risk of equipment damage 

from weather, animals, and vandalism.

Each $1,734.29 1 $1,734.29
Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 1 $3,010.00

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63

Equipment Shed 2617 Equipment shed (10 x 10 foot) made of steel applied over the sampling 

flume to allow collection of water samples during the winter in colder 

climates.

Each $768.07 1 $768.07
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #126 - System Installation-Surface

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with surface runoff that can be captured and 

sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The component monitoring equipment are associated with a typical system 

for southern latitudes where winter time heating is not required for sampling. It will allow for installation of automated sampling data collection system with protective 

housing to reduce potential for vandalism, battery backup for operation during periods when electricity is down or solar panels are not creating an electrical current, and a 

berm or other directional flow structure to guide the runoff to a sampling flume. 

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing the monitoring equipment is guessing about the effects of the conservation system with regards to meeting practice intent of 

avoid, controlling, or trapping sediment and nutrients. 

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $27,628.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27,628.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Automated sampler with bottles 2606

and tubing

Equipment used to collect the water samples on a flow weighted 

interval of 1.27 mm of runoff (volumetric depth) during a storm event.

Each $2,555.63 1 $2,555.63

Connectors, cables, platform 2607

materials

Miscellaneous (connectors, cables, berm, platform materials); Includes 

materials only.

Each $9,638.96 1 $9,638.96

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 1 $3,645.15

Equipment shelter 2609 Building designed to house and reduce the risk of equipment damage 

from weather, animals, and vandalism.

Each $1,734.29 1 $1,734.29

Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 1 $3,010.00

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #134 - System Installation-Retrofit Above and Below 1

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is to retrofit an existing above and below monitoring designed system that is being used in associated with the 799 

interim practice or comparable system. The retrofit is applicable to an above and below system that has a field defined with surface or subsurface drainage runoff that can 

be captured and sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The data represents the installation of an automated and 

manual backup rain gauge and two back-up/solar power supply be added to existing paired system.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to retrofit has an edge-of-field data collection system but it does not meet the present standards for accuracy or reliability as detailed in 

either or both of Activity 201 and Activity 202.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,008.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,008.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 32 $1,021.44

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.24 $615.27

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #143 - System Installation-Retrofit Above 3

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is to retrofit an existing above and below monitoring designed system that is being used in associated with the 799 

interim practice or comparable system. The retrofit is applicable to an above and below system that has a field defined with surface or subsurface drainage runoff that can 

be captured and sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The data represents the installation of an automated and 

manual backup rain gauge, two back-up/solar power supplies, two communications devices, two pre-calibrated flumes, and two depth (stage) sensors to be added to 

existing paired system.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to retrofit has an edge-of-field data collection system but it does not meet the present standards for accuracy or reliability as detailed in 

either or both of Activity 201 and Activity 202.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $22,581.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22,581.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.24 $615.27

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 2 $7,290.30

Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 2 $6,020.00

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 2 $4,899.26
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #151 - System Installation-Retrofit 3

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is to retrofit an existing system that is being used in associated with the 799 interim practice or comparable system. 

The retrofit is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with surface or subsurface drainage runoff that can be captured and sampled at the 

edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The data represents the installation of an automated and manual backup rain gauge, backup/solar power supply, communications device, pre-calibrated flow control structure, and depth (stage) sensor to be added to existing system.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to retrofit has an edge-of-field data collection system but it does not meet the present standards for accuracy or reliability as detailed in 

either or both of Activity 201 and Activity 202.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,805.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,805.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 32 $1,021.44

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 1 $3,645.15

Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 1 $3,010.00

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #159 - System Installation-Retrofit 2

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is to retrofit an existing system that is being used in associated with the 799 interim practice or comparable system. 

The retrofit is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with surface or subsurface drainage runoff that can be captured and sampled at the 

edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The data represents the installation of an automated and manual backup rain gauge, backup/solar power supply, communications device, and depth (stage) sensor to be added to existing system.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to retrofit has an edge-of-field data collection system but it does not meet the present standards for accuracy or reliability as detailed in 

either or both of Activity 201 and Activity 202.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,412.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,412.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 1 $3,645.15

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #167 - System Installation-Retrofit 1

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is to retrofit an existing system that is being used in associated with the 799 interim practice or comparable system. 

The retrofit is applicable to a single control or treatment site that has a field defined with surface or subsurface drainage runoff that can be captured and sampled at the 

edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The data represents the installation of an automated and manual backup rain gauge and 

back-up/solar power supply be added to existing system.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to retrofit has an edge-of-field data collection system but it does not meet the present standards for accuracy or reliability as detailed in 

either or both of Activity 201 and Activity 202.

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,190.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,190.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #175 - System Installation-Above And Below cold climate

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is applicable where a conservation practice has a pre- and post treatment area in the same field drainage with surface 

or subsurface drainage runoff that can be captured and sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The component 

monitoring equipment are associated with a typical system for northern latitudes where winter time heating is required for sampling. It will allow for installation of 

automated sampling data collection system with protective housing to reduce potential for vandalism, battery backup for operation during periods when electricity is 

down or solar panels are not creating an electrical current, a calf hut or other structure with heat is required over the flume to allow sampling under northern latitude 

winter conditions, and a berm or other directional flow structure to guide the runoff to a sampling flume. The actual installation will different on the subsurface flow by 

allowing a smaller pre-calibrated flume with the addition of a velocity sensor meter as in the tile alternative.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing the monitoring equipment is guessing about the effects of the conservation system with regards to meeting practice intent of 

avoid, controlling, or trapping sediment and nutrients. Nothing is known about the volume or mass of sediment and nutrients leaving the edge of field through the tile or 

other subsurface drainage system. 

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $42,711.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42,711.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Heater, high efficiency 1165 Natural gas, propane, or fuel oil unit heater or boiler and venting 

materials. Based on input kBTU/hour. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

1,000 $22.00 2 $44.00

BTU/Hour

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Automated sampler with bottles 2606

and tubing

Equipment used to collect the water samples on a flow weighted 

interval of 1.27 mm of runoff (volumetric depth) during a storm event.

Each $2,555.63 2 $5,111.26

Connectors, cables, platform 2607

materials

Miscellaneous (connectors, cables, berm, platform materials); Includes 

materials only.

Each $9,638.96 1 $9,638.96

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 2 $7,290.30

Equipment shelter 2609 Building designed to house and reduce the risk of equipment damage 

from weather, animals, and vandalism.

Each $1,734.29 2 $3,468.58
Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 2 $6,020.00

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 2 $4,899.26

Equipment Shed 2617 Equipment shed (10 x 10 foot) made of steel applied over the sampling 

flume to allow collection of water samples during the winter in colder 

climates.

Each $768.07 2 $1,536.14
Practice: 202 - Edge-of-Field Water Quality Monitoring-System Installation

Scenario: #183 - System Installation-Above And Below

Scenario Description:

This edge-of-field water quality monitoring system is applicable where a conservation practice has a pre- and post treatment area in the same field drainage with surface 

or subsurface drainage runoff that can be captured and sampled at the edge of a field before entering a ditch or receiving water body or water course. The component 

monitoring equipment are associated with a typical system for southern latitudes where winter time heating is not required for sampling. It will allow for installation of 

automated sampling data collection system with protective housing to reduce potential for vandalism, battery backup for operation during periods when electricity is 

down or solar panels are not creating an electrical current, and a berm or other directional flow structure to guide the runoff to a sampling flume. The actual installation 

will different on the subsurface flow by allowing a smaller precalibrated flume with the addition of a velocity sensor meter as in the tile alternative.

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation prior to installing the monitoring equipment is guessing about the effects of the conservation system with regards to meeting practice intent of 

avoid, controlling, or trapping sediment and nutrients. 

After Situation:

The agricultural operation after installing the monitoring equipment will be receiving feedback in the form of edge-of-field runoff water quality samples. The samples will 

allow the operator to understand the relationship between rain/irrigation, practice choice, and nutrient inputs effecting nutrient and sediment loss for the field. Thus, 

providing an opportunity to make adaptive management changes to the agricultural operation to reduce sediment and nutrient loss and/or profitability.

Feature Measure: System installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $38,681.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $38,681.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.12 $307.63

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Automated sampler with bottles 2606

and tubing

Equipment used to collect the water samples on a flow weighted 

interval of 1.27 mm of runoff (volumetric depth) during a storm event.

Each $2,555.63 2 $5,111.26

Connectors, cables, platform 2607

materials

Miscellaneous (connectors, cables, berm, platform materials); Includes 

materials only.

Each $9,638.96 1 $9,638.96

Depth (stage) sensor 2608 Device used to relay information to the Data logger about incremental 

increases in runoff. ISCO 730 Module with 1/8-in x 25-ft vinyl bubble 

line. Includes equipment only. Used for A202 water quality monitering

Each $3,645.15 2 $7,290.30

Equipment shelter 2609 Building designed to house and reduce the risk of equipment damage 

from weather, animals, and vandalism.

Each $1,734.29 2 $3,468.58

Pre-calibrated flow control 2610

structure-surface

Pre-calibrated flow control structure-surface. Used for A202 water 

quality monitering

Each $3,010.00 2 $6,020.00

Device, communications 2616 Piece of equipment or hardware designed to transmit real time data or 

information collected prior to site visits. Includes equipment only.

Each $2,449.63 1 $2,449.63
Practice: 206 - Feed and Forage Analysis

Scenario: #9 - Feed or Forage Nutrient Composition Analysis

Scenario Description:

Testing of feed or forage for nutrient composition. Each lot (forage lot or lot of feed) should be sampled and tested separately. Testing of bale or stack forage for 

nutrient composition. Factors to consider when determining lot size include forage species, stage of maturity, cutting schedule, soil type, soil fertility, presence of weeds, 

harvest conditions, storage effects. Each lot should be sampled and tested separately. Testing of standing forage for nutrient composition. Forage can be tested to 

determine if it is worth cutting for hay or to determine if grazing animals require supplemental feed. Select at lease eight representative locations and clip the forage at 

grazing or harvest height from a one square foot area at each location. In grazing situations try and select the species being selectively grazed. Cut the samples into 2- to 3-

inch pieces, combine in a bucket and mix well. Spread the sample on paper and allow it to air-dry for two days or place in a pan and dry overnight in an oven at 150??F 

before mailing it to the laboratory. Analysis of silage (fresh or silo) for nutrient composition. Remove two to three gallons of silage from different sections of a load and 

save about a quart using the quartering method. Freeze the samples until all loads are sampled. Combine samples, mix thoroughly, and reduce to about one quart by 

quartering. The final sample should be placed in the cloth forage sample bag, and the full forage bag inserted into a plastic bag to prevent moisture loss during mailing. 

Remove excess air from the plastic bag before sealing. Do not insert the plastic bag inside the cloth forage bag since damage may result when it is processed by the 

laboratory. Freeze the sample prior to mailing and mail samples early in the week to avoid weekend delays and reduce chances of molding. Upright silos- 12 handfuls of 

silage as it is discharged from the silo. Horizontal silos-hand grab same as upright but access the entire surface of the open face. Analysis of dietary ration, feed, or diet 

for nutrient composition.

Before Situation:

Producer wishes to reduce nutrient excretion or emission from livestock or poultry to air, soil, or water. To accomplish a reduction in nutrient excretion and emissions, 

knowledge of nutrient input from silage is required to optimally balance the diet for best nutrient utilization by the animal.

After Situation:

Animal diet is optimally balanced for nutrient composition and nutrients excreted or emitted by the animal are reduced.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,967.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,967.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Portable Post Driver 2722 Gas or Hydraulic Powered Post Driver, Portable, <300 lbs, labor not 

included

Hours $17.49 1 $17.49

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08

Materials

Test, Feed Analysis 1989 Representative sample of feed. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $30.81 12 $369.72
Practice: 207 - Site Assessment and Soil Testing for Contaminants Activity

Scenario: #9 - Site Evaluation for Potential Contaminants

Scenario Description:

This practice applies to urban sites where the desired land use is cropland. Sites may have been residential, industrial or commercial land use in the past and the risk for 

soil contaminants is unknown.

Before Situation:

Soil suitability for agricultural production is unknown with potential risk of contamination from prior land use activities.

After Situation:

Site history has been researched and findings indicate a potential for the presence of contaminants. Final report provides the landowner with the level of risk and 

recommendation for further testing. Reports may be used in the conservation planning process to explore non-remedial conservation practices to reduce risk of 

contaminants entering the food products.

Feature Measure: Each Site

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,313.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,313.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 40 $4,313.60
Practice: 207 - Site Assessment and Soil Testing for Contaminants Activity

Scenario: #25 - Site Evaluation and Soil Testing for Contaminants

Scenario Description:

This practice applies to urban sites where the desired land use is cropland. Sites may have been residential, industrial or commercial land use in the past and the risk for 

soil contaminants is unknown.

Before Situation:

Soil suitability for agricultural production is unknown with potential risk of contamination from prior land use activities.

After Situation:

Site history has been researched and findings indicate a potential for the presence of contaminants. The soil has been collected and tested for heavy metals, VOCs and 

PAHs. Final reports provide the landowner with the level of risk. Reports may be used in the conservation planning process to explore non-remedial conservation 

practices to reduce risk of contaminants entering the food products.

Feature Measure: Each Site

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,940.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,940.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 120 $12,940.80
Practice: 207 - Site Assessment and Soil Testing for Contaminants Activity

Scenario: #41 - Soil Testing and Subsurface Investigation

Scenario Description:

This practice applies to urban sites where the desired land use is cropland. Sites may have been residential, industrial or commercial land use in the past and the risk for 

soil contaminants is unknown. The landowner has a prior Environmental Site Assessment completed by an Environmental Professional. The ESA report recommends 

further subsurface investigation. OR Landowner has NRCS report from portable Xray Flouresence screening that detected soil contaminants.

Before Situation:

Soil suitability for agricultural production is unknown with potential risk of contamination from prior land use activities.

After Situation:

Site history has been researched and findings indicate a potential for the presence of contaminants. The soil has been collected and tested for heavy metals, VOCs and 

PAHs. Final reports provide the landowner with the level of risk. Reports may be used in the conservation planning process to explore non-remedial conservation 

practices to reduce risk of contaminants entering the food products.

Feature Measure: Each Site

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,627.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,627.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 80 $8,627.20
Practice: 207 - Site Assessment and Soil Testing for Contaminants Activity

Scenario: #57 - Soil Testing for Contaminants on Low Risk Sites

Scenario Description:

This practice applies to urban sites where the desired land use is cropland. Sites may have been residential, industrial or commercial land use in the past and the risk for 

soil contaminants is unknown. The landowner has a prior Environmental Site Assessment completed by an Environmental Professional. The ESA report does not require 

further investigation. OR Landowner has NRCS report from portable Xray Flouresence screening that detected soil contaminants. Screening detection levels are below the 

State Environmental Protection Agency or equivalent agency published safety thresholds for bare soil residential use.

Before Situation:

Soil suitability for agricultural production is unknown with potential risk of contamination from prior land use activities.

After Situation:

Site history has been researched and findings indicate a potential for the presence of contaminants. The soil has been collected and tested for heavy metals only. Soil 

test reports provide the landowner with the level of risk. Reports may be used in the conservation planning process to explore non-remedial conservation practices to 

reduce risk of contaminants entering the food products.

Feature Measure: Area of Soil Tested

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $732.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $183.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Heavy Metals 2735 Microwave assisted acid digestion of soil for arsenic, cadmium, 

chromium, copper, lead, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, and zinc using 

EPA Method 3051A

Number $123.40 4 $493.60
Practice: 209 - PFAS Testing in Water or Soil

Scenario: #9 - PFAS Testing: Simple (Low Complexity) Sampling - Single Sample

Scenario Description:

A single sample of water or soil is required to provide prescreening information to the landowner to determine if PFAS may be present in water or soils at their operation. 

In this scenario, the environmental media being sampled by the qualified individual is of low complexity: there is little temporal or spatial variation to account for in 

sampling, therefore no pre-sampling planning needed. This could include a single well used for stockwater or irrigation systems. The typical number of tests is 1, assuming 

that a landowner has a single well or a single field that can be represented by a single composite sample.

Before Situation:

Water or soil on an agricultural operation are of unknown PFAS status. PFAS laboratory analysis has not been conducted on the water or soil of interest.

After Situation:

A laboratory PFAS analysis was completed, and the results were interpreted and explained to the landowner. The landowner now has pre-screening information that 

suggests if PFAS may be present in water (or soil) on their operation. If testing detects PFAS in water or soil at levels that exceed State or Federal screening levels, the 

landowner can decide to pursue non-NRCS sources for follow-up detailed PFAS assessment.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,196.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,196.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

PFAS Laboratory Testing in Water 2801

and Soils

This component supports data collection on PFAS in soil and water. Soil 

or water samples are to be collected by trained environmental 

professionals to be analyzed using the appropriate EPA protocol at an 

accredited laboratory for PFAS. Includes testing and shipping costs.

Number $549.00 1 $549.00
Practice: 209 - PFAS Testing in Water or Soil

Scenario: #25 - PFAS Testing: Simple (Low Complexity) Sampling - Multiple Samples

Scenario Description:

Multiple samples of water or soil are needed to provide prescreening information to the landowner to determine if PFAS may be present in water or soils at their 

operation. In this scenario, the environmental media being sampled by the qualified individual is of low complexity. There is little temporal or spatial variation to 

account for in sampling, therefore no pre-sampling planning needed. This scenario could apply to small ponds or wells used for stockwater or irrigation systems, a small 

field, or a small number of fields of uniform soil composition. This scenario assumes that additional time is needed for each collection of multiple samples. The typical 

number of tests is 5, assuming that a landowner has four fields and a well and each field can be represented by a single composite sample.

Before Situation:

Water or soil on an agricultural operation are of unknown PFAS status. PFAS laboratory analysis has not been conducted on the water or soil of interest.

After Situation:

A laboratory PFAS analysis was completed, and the results were interpreted and explained to the landowner. The landowner now has pre-screening information that 

suggests if PFAS may be present in water (or soil) on their operation. If testing detects PFAS in water or soil at levels that exceed State or Federal screening levels, the 

landowner can decide to pursue non-NRCS sources for follow-up detailed PFAS assessment.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,254.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $850.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Materials

PFAS Laboratory Testing in Water 2801

and Soils

This component supports data collection on PFAS in soil and water. Soil 

or water samples are to be collected by trained environmental 

professionals to be analyzed using the appropriate EPA protocol at an 

accredited laboratory for PFAS. Includes testing and shipping costs.

Number $549.00 5 $2,745.00
Practice: 209 - PFAS Testing in Water or Soil

Scenario: #41 - PFAS Testing: Complicated (High Complexity) Sampling - Multiple Samples

Scenario Description:

Multiple samples of water or soil are needed to provide prescreening information to the landowner to determine if PFAS may be present in water or soils at their 

operation. In this scenario, the environmental media being sampled is of high complexity. There is a need to account for this temporal or spatial variation in sampling. 

Therefore, additional time is needed to prepare and discuss a comprehensive sampling strategy to detect PFAS and the final comprehensive report with the landowner. 

This scenario could apply to the agricultural use of multiple sources of water (ponds, wells, and reclaimed water) for stockwater or irrigation systems or to assess multiple 

fields with variable soil composition. This scenario assumes that additional time is needed for each collection of multiple samples. The typical number of tests is 5, 

assuming that a farmer has many fields, and the producer doesn't want to test all or has large fields with highly variable soil composition.

Before Situation:

Water or soil on an agricultural operation are of unknown PFAS status. PFAS laboratory analysis has not been conducted on the water or soil of interest.

After Situation:

A laboratory PFAS analysis was completed, and the results were interpreted and explained to the landowner. The landowner now has pre-screening information that 

suggests if PFAS may be present in water (or soil) on their operation. If testing detects PFAS in water or soil at levels that exceed State or Federal screening levels, the 

landowner can decide to pursue non-NRCS sources for follow-up detailed PFAS assessment.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,117.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,023.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 22 $2,372.48

Materials

PFAS Laboratory Testing in Water 2801

and Soils

This component supports data collection on PFAS in soil and water. Soil 

or water samples are to be collected by trained environmental 

professionals to be analyzed using the appropriate EPA protocol at an 

accredited laboratory for PFAS. Includes testing and shipping costs.

Number $549.00 5 $2,745.00
Practice: 216 - Soil Health Testing

Scenario: #156 - Basic Soil Health Suite + Chemical

Scenario Description:

Soil is collected and analyzed in a lab to assess soil health and fertility. A laboratory soil health assessment is conducted to evaluate and/or monitor conservation 

practices. Laboratory tests must include 'basic package' indicators: soil organic carbon, aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon. This scenario 

also includes a comprehensive chemical soil test (macronutrients + micronutrients). One basic soil health assessment is planned for on Soil Health Management Unit 

(SHMU). Sample collection is completed by an agricultural service provider, soil scientist, or other agriculture professional and includes time for soil sampling and 

submission.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management.

After Situation:

A laboratory soil health test and nutrient analysis were completed, and the results were interpreted and explained to the producer and used to establish benchmark 

conditions for soil health management practices or evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice.

Feature Measure: polygon

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $361.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $361.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 4.5 $179.87

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Comprehensive 2384 Comprehensive Soil Testing for pH, EC, nitrates, ammonium, 

phosphorus, potassium, organic matter and other micro-nutrients. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $55.45 1 $55.45

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 1 $126.15
Practice: 216 - Soil Health Testing

Scenario: #172 - Basic Soil Health Suite

Scenario Description:

A soil sample is collected, and laboratory soil health assessment is conducted to evaluate and/or monitor conservation practices. Laboratory tests must include 'basic 

package' indicators: soil organic carbon, aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon. One basic soil health assessment is planned for on Soil Health 

Management Unit (SHMU). This scenario assumes that a comprehensive chemical soil test (macronutrients + micronutrients) has been completed on the same 

management unit in the last 2 years. Sample collection is completed by an agricultural service provider, soil scientist, or other agriculture professional and includes time 

for soil sampling and submission.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management.

After Situation:

A laboratory soil health test was completed and the results were interpreted (scored), explained to the producer, and used to establish benchmark conditions for soil 

health management practices or to evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice.

Feature Measure: polygon

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $306.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $306.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 4.5 $179.87

Materials

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 1 $126.15
Practice: 216 - Soil Health Testing

Scenario: #188 - Single Indicator

Scenario Description:

A laboratory soil health assessment for a single indictor is conducted to evaluate and/or monitor conservation practices. Laboratory tests for the single indicator may 

include soil organic carbon, aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial community structure, enzyme activity or other soil health test. One 

basic soil health assessment is planned for on Soil Health Management Unit (SHMU). Sample collection is completed by a Qualified Individual and includes time for soil 

sampling and submission.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management.

After Situation:

A laboratory soil health test of was completed for a single indicator and the results were interpreted and explained to the producer and used to establish benchmark 

conditions for soil health management practices or evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice.

Feature Measure: polygon

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $243.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $243.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 4.5 $179.87

Materials

Testing, Soil Health Single 2795

Indicator

Single soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial 

activity, or microbial diversity according to technical note 450-03 or 

standard laboratory methods. Includes shipping and handling.

Each $63.15 1 $63.15
Practice: 216 - Soil Health Testing

Scenario: #277 - Three Indicator Soil Health Measurement

Scenario Description:

A laboratory soil health assessment to measure three soil health indicators. The indicators are soil organic carbon measured by dry combustion lab methods, carbon 

mineralization potential measured by 24 hour carbon dioxide from rewetting air dry soils, and aggregate stability measured by the wet sieve 10 minute change slake test.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer has been farming a system that has not addressed all 4 of the soil health principles. Producer has noticed yield declines, soil degradation, or is simply 

interested in learning more about soil health management.

After Situation:

A laboratory soil health test of was completed to measure the three soil health indicators and the results were interpreted (scored) and explained to the producer and 

used to establish benchmark conditions for soil health management practices or evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice.

Feature Measure: soil health indicator

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $369.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $369.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, Skilled 1604 Conservation Activity Plan labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes 

carpenters, welders, electricians, conservation professionals involved 

with data collection, monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $39.97 4.5 $179.87

Materials

Testing, Soil Health Single 2795

Indicator

Single soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial 

activity, or microbial diversity according to technical note 450-03 or 

standard laboratory methods. Includes shipping and handling.

Each $63.15 3 $189.45
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #9 - Soil Test Only

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect soil samples and prepare for laboratory analysis; and interpret soil nutrient needs. Typical 

management unit is 100 acres. Includes Comprehensive Soil Testing to provide both Macro and micro soil nutrient levels.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have soil test laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH for each field or management unit in crop 

production. Nutrients are applied without knowledge of soil test levels.

After Situation:

Soil samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described and a map if sampling points is provided. Qualified individual concludes nutrients 

are needed or not based on soil test results. Follow up by developing a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 Nutrient Management Design and Implementation 

Activity or implement Nutrient Management 590.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $847.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $847.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 5 $72.70
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #25 - Soil and Source Material Test

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect soil samples and prepare for laboratory analysis; and interpret soil nutrient needs. Typical whole 

field soil sampling plus collection of samples for nutrient sources needing to be tested.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have soil test laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH for each field or management unit in crop 

production. Nutrients are applied without knowledge of soil test levels.

After Situation:

Soil samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described and a map if sampling points is provided. Qualified individual concludes nutrients 

are needed or not based on soil test results. Follow up by developing a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 Nutrient Management Design and Implementation 

Activity or implement Nutrient Management 590.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,446.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,446.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 25 $2,696.00

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 20 $290.80

Test, Manure Analysis 306 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $48.54 1.3 $63.10

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1.3 $77.77

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 1.3 $63.38
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #41 - Zone or Grid Soil Test

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect soil samples based on a 2.5 acre grid or zone, and prepare for laboratory analysis; and interpret soil 

nutrient needs. Typical management unit is 100 acres.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have soil test laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH for each field or management unit in crop 

production. Nutrients are applied without knowledge of soil test levels.

After Situation:

Soil samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described and a map if sampling points is provided. Qualified individual concludes nutrients 

are needed or not based on soil test results. Follow up by developing a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 Nutrient Management Design and Implementation 

Activity or implement Nutrient Management 590.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,699.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,699.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 40 $581.60
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #57 - Manure or Compost Only

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect manure or compost samples and prepare for laboratory analysis; and interpret crop nutrient needs. 

Sampling protocol for liquid manure includes agitation per LGU guidelines. Dry manure and compost sampling protocol are performed per LGU guidelines.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have manure or compost laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH of the organic source. Nutrients are 

applied without knowledge of manure or compost nutrient levels.

After Situation:

Manure or Compost samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described. Qualified individual concludes the amount of nutrients needed for 

the crop based on manure or compost test results. Follow up by developing a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 Nutrient Management Design and Implementation 

Activity or implement Nutrient Management 590.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,014.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,014.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 4 $239.28
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #73 - Source Water Nutrient Test

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect source water samples and prepare for laboratory analysis; and interpret crop nutrient needs. Typical 

irrigation water sampling for nutrients, may include drainage water sampling for monitoring nutrient loss or if drainage water is being reused.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have Source Water Nutrient laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH of the water source. Nutrients are 

applied without knowledge of source water nutrient levels.

After Situation:

Water samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described. Qualified individual concludes the amount of nutrients needed for the crop 

based on Source Water test results. Follow up by developing a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity or 

implement Nutrient Management 590.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $754.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $754.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 4 $195.00
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #89 - Soil Test- pH Emphasis

Scenario Description:

Soil analysis is used as a diagnostic tool to identify fields with soil acidification problems in no-till cropping systems. One soil sample is collected every 40 acres from only 

the top 3 inches of soil and analyzed for both pH and buffer pH. A recommended three cores should be taken from a 4 sq ft sampling area every 40 acres and composited 

to provide at least 100 grams of soil for the laboratory test. Test results are georeferenced on a map and can be used to build a lime application budget for the field.

Before Situation:

Field shows crop yield decline and areas of lower pH are suspected but not tested. No-till application of nitrogen fertilizers is causing acidification. Soil is sampled to 6-

inch depth, multiple sub-samples are collected from random locations in the field and are composited into one main sample, diluting potential low pH results from the top 

3-inches of soil. Samples are submitted to the lab to determine pH level in the soil. Fertilizer and liming recommendations are made based on the one composited sample 

for the whole field.

After Situation:

One composited soil sample is collected in a 4 sq ft area from the top 3 inches of soil every 40 acres,. The sample is analyzed for pH and buffer pH. Sample results are 

georeferenced on a map and and used to identify and diagnose soil acidification problems. Follow up by developing or updating a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 

Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity or implement Nutrient Management 590. Producers can then use this diagnostic information to apply lime to 

raise the soil pH. Topsoil pH and plant productivity and health are both maintained at desirable levels.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $243.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $243.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 1 $14.54
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #105 - Small scale - Soil and Nutrient Source Test

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect soil and nutrient source samples, prepare for laboratory analysis and interpret soil and crop nutrient 

needs. Typical field size is less than or equal to 0.5 acres (22000 sq ft). Includes Comprehensive Soil Testing to provide both Macro and micro soil nutrient levels.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have soil and nutrient source laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH for the soil and nutrient source. 

Nutrients are applied without knowledge of soil and nutrient source test levels.

After Situation:

Soil and nutrient source samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described. Qualified individual concludes nutrients are needed or not 

based on soil test results. The amount of nutrients needed is based on Nutrient Source results. Follow up by developing a nutrient management plan with DIA 157 

Nutrient Management Design and Implementation Activity or implement Nutrient Management 590.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $437.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $437.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Test, Manure Analysis 306 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $48.54 0.5 $24.27

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 0.5 $29.91

Test, Soil Test, Comprehensive 2384 Comprehensive Soil Testing for pH, EC, nitrates, ammonium, 

phosphorus, potassium, organic matter and other micro-nutrients. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $55.45 1 $55.45

Testing, Water Quality 2613 Ammonium, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen, Soluble 

Reactive P (Orthophosphate), Total Phosphorus, Suspended Sediment 

Concentration ??? Preferred, or Total Suspended Solids. Includes 

materials only.

Each $48.75 1 $48.75
Practice: 217 - Soil and Source Testing for Nutrient Management

Scenario: #121 - Soil Test Only Garden Plots/Raised Beds

Scenario Description:

A qualified individual will develop a nutrient testing strategy, collect 5 soil subsamples and combine to one representative sample, prepare for laboratory analysis, and 

interpret soil nutrient needs. This scenario considers costs for 5 or less raised beds. Cost includes comprehensive soil test based on expected specialty crop production.

Before Situation:

Producer does not have soil test laboratory analysis documenting the level of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium or pH for each field or management unit in crop 

production. Nutrients are applied without knowledge of soil test levels.

After Situation:

Soil samples have been collected and analyzed. The strategy for sampling is described and a map if sampling points is provided. Qualified individual concludes nutrients are 

needed or not based on soil test results. A Nutrient Management Plan CPS 590 or DIA 157 may be developed after the report is complete.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $556.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $556.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Comprehensive 2384 Comprehensive Soil Testing for pH, EC, nitrates, ammonium, 

phosphorus, potassium, organic matter and other micro-nutrients. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $55.45 5 $277.25
Practice: 218 - Carbon Sequestration and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Assessment

Scenario: #9 - Low Complexity

Scenario Description:

An evaluation of the quantifiable carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation effects using the COMET-Farm tool. The information on the type of operation, land 

use, and management history is collected initially as part of the planning process for a conservation plan focused on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation. 

The carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation CEMA includes a complete COMET-Farm project designed to evaluate the current conservation plan and the 

baseline and historic management impacts on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation. The COMET-Farm evaluation can occur concurrently or following a 

conservation plan. Low complexity would include simple systems of a single enterprise, low number of management units, detailed available history.

Before Situation:

The producer's objectives are to improve soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation and to quantify the effects of a conservation plan. The quantifiable 

effects on soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation of the current and historic management practices are not known.

After Situation:

Producer receives a detailed report from COMET-Farm that quantifies the soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation effects of historic, baseline, and 

(scenario management) proposed conservation plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $862.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $862.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72
Practice: 218 - Carbon Sequestration and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Assessment

Scenario: #25 - Medium Complexity

Scenario Description:

An evaluation of the quantifiable carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation effects using the COMET-Farm tool. The information on the type of operation, land 

use, and management history is collected initially as part of the planning process for a conservation plan focused on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation. 

The carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation CEMA includes a complete COMET-Farm project designed to evaluate the current conservation plan and the 

baseline and historic management impacts on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation. The COMET-Farm evaluation can occur concurrently or following a 

conservation plan. Medium complexity would include systems with more than one enterprises, a moderate number of management units, complex or difficult to define 

history.

Before Situation:

The producer objectives are to improve soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation and quantify the effects of a conservation plan. The quantifiable effects 

on soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation of the current and historic management practices are not known.

After Situation:

Producer receives a detailed COMET-Farm report that quantifies the soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation effects of historic, baseline, and (scenario 

management) proposed conservation plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,294.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,294.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08
Practice: 218 - Carbon Sequestration and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Assessment

Scenario: #41 - High Complexity

Scenario Description:

An evaluation of the quantifiable carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation effects using the COMET-Farm tool. The information on the type of operation, land 

use, and management history is collected initially as part of the planning process for a conservation plan focused on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation. 

The carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation CEMA includes a complete COMET-Farm project designed to evaluate the current conservation plan and the 

baseline and historic management impacts on carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation. The COMET-Farm evaluation can occur concurrently or following a 

conservation plan. High complexity would include systems with multiple enterprises, high number of management units, and complex or incomplete management history.

Before Situation:

The producer objectives are to improve soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation and quantify the effects of a conservation plan. The quantifiable effects 

on soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation of the current and historic management practices are not known.

After Situation:

Producer receives a detailed report from COMET-Farm that quantifies the soil carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas mitigation effects of historic, baseline, and 

(scenario management) proposed conservation plan .

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,725.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,725.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 16 $1,725.44
Practice: 219 - Prescribed Grazing Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity

Scenario: #9 - Conservation, Evaluation and Monitoring Activity less than 100 acres

Scenario Description:

Small agricultural operation with less than 100 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, or approprite 

resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer is not utlizing a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, Implentation 

Requirement (IR), and/or DIA 159. Information is not being gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. 

A monitoring plan has not been developed to ascertain whether the stragegy(s) identified in the grazing management plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting 

goals and objectives; particularly regarding the pertinent resource concern assessments identified in the Conservation Plan or CPA. Evaluation and monitoring of CPS 528 

and any supporting practices has not been conducted to determine effectiveness of implemented practices.

After Situation:

Producer will utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all grazing management practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, 

Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA 159. Evaluation and monitoring activities will provide all needed information to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing 

management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. A monitoring plan will be implemented with appropriate protocols and data records that evaluate whether the 

grazing strategy identified in the grazing plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting goals and objectives. Specific evaluation activities will be chosen based on stated 

objectives and pertinent resource concerns assessments identified in the Conservation Plan, CPA, Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA. Evaluation and monitoring 

will meet the applicable 'plans and specifications' and 'operation and maintenance' sections found in CPS 528. Other supporting and facilitating conservation practices will 

also be monitored and evaluated. The CEMA narrative will describe the overall methodology, decision support tools and recommended management actions to meet 

purposes and criteria within practice standards. Job sheets and implementation requirement documents found in State's FOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be 

used.

Feature Measure: number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,045.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,045.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 10 $1,045.40
Practice: 219 - Prescribed Grazing Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity

Scenario: #25 - Conservation, Evaluation and Monitoring Activity between 101 and 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation between 101 and 500 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, or appropriate 

resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer is not utlizing a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, Implentation 

Requirement (IR), and/or DIA 159. Information is not being gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. 

A monitoring plan has not been developed to ascertain whether the stragegy(s) identified in the grazing management plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting 

goals and objectives; particularly regarding the pertinent resource concern assessments identified in the Conservation Plan or CPA. Evaluation and monitoring of CPS 528 

and any supporting practices has not been conducted to determine effectiveness of implemented practices.

After Situation:

Producer will utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all grazing managment practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, 

Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA 159. Evaluation and monitoring activities will provide all needed information to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing 

management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. A monitoring plan will be implemented with appropriate protocols and data records that evaluate whether the 

grazing strategy identified in the grazing plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting goals and objectives. Specific evaluation activities will be chosen based on stated 

objectives and pertinent resource concerns assessments identified in the Conservation Plan, CPA, Implementation Requirment (IR) and/or DIA. Evaluation and monitoring 

will meet the applicable 'plans and specifications' and 'operation and maintenance' sections found in CPS 528. Other supporting and facilitating conservation practices will 

also be monitored and evaluated. The CEMA narrative will describe the overall methodology, decision support tools and recommended management actions to meet 

purposes and criteria within practice standards. Job sheets and implementation requirement documents found in State's FOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be 

used.

Feature Measure: number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,568.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,568.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 15 $1,568.10
Practice: 219 - Prescribed Grazing Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity

Scenario: #41 - Conservation, Evaluation and Monitoring Activity between 501 and 1,500 acres

Scenario Description:

Small agricultural operation with 501 to 1,500 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: Soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, or appropriate 

resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer is not utilizing a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, Implementation 

Requirement (IR), and/or DIA 159. Information is not being gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. 

A monitoring plan has not been developed to ascertain whether the stragegy(s) identified in the grazing management plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting 

goals and objectives; particularly regarding the pertinent resource concern assessments identified in the Conservation Plan or CPA. Evaluation and monitoring of CPS 528 

and any supporting practices has not been conducted to determine effectiveness of implemented practices.

After Situation:

Producer will utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all grazing management practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, 

Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA 159. Evaluation and monitoring activities will provide all needed information to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing 

management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. A monitoring plan will be implemented with appropriate protocols and data records that evaluate whether the 

grazing strategy identified in the grazing plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting goals and objectives. Specific evaluation activities will be chosen based on stated 

objectives and pertinent resource concerns assessments identified in the Conservation Plan, CPA, Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA. Evaluation and monitoring 

will meet the applicable 'plans and specifications' and 'operation and maintenance' sections found in CPS 528. Other supporting and facilitating conservation practices will 

also be monitored and evaluated. The CEMA narrative will describe the overall methodology, decision support tools and recommended management actions to meet 

purposes and criteria within practice standards. Job sheets and implementation requirement documents found in State's FOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be 

used.

Feature Measure: number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,613.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,613.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 25 $2,613.50
Practice: 219 - Prescribed Grazing Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity

Scenario: #57 - Conservation, Evaluation and Monitoring Activity between 1,501 and 5,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation with 1,501 to 5,000 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: Soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, or appropriate 

resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer is not utilizing a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, Implementation 

Requirement (IR), and/or DIA 159. Information is not being gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. 

A monitoring plan has not been developed to ascertain whether the stragegy(s) identified in the grazing management plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting 

goals and objectives; particularly regarding the pertinent resource concern assessments identified in the Conservation Plan or CPA. Evaluation and monitoring of CPS 528 

and any supporting practices has not been conducted to determine effectiveness of implemented practices.

After Situation:

Producer will utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all grazing management practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, 

Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA 159. Evaluation and monitoring activities will provide all needed information to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing 

management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. A monitoring plan will be implemented with appropriate protocols and data records that evaluate whether the 

grazing strategy identified in the grazing plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting goals and objectives. Specific evaluation activities will be chosen based on stated 

objectives and pertinent resource concerns assessments identified in the Conservation Plan, CPA, Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA. Evaluation and monitoring 

will meet the applicable 'plans and specifications' and 'operation and maintenance' sections found in CPS 528. Other supporting and facilitating conservation practices will 

also be monitored and evaluated. The CEMA narrative will describe the overall methodology, decision support tools and recommended management actions to meet 

purposes and criteria within practice standards. Job sheets and implementation requirement documents found in State's FOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be 

used.

Feature Measure: number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,658.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,658.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 35 $3,658.90
Practice: 219 - Prescribed Grazing Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity

Scenario: #73 - Conservation, Evaluation and Monitoring Activity between 5,001 and 10,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation with 5,001 to 10,000 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: Soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, or appropriate 

resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer is not utilizing a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, Implementation 

Requirement (IR), and/or DIA 159. Information is not being gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. 

A monitoring plan has not been developed to ascertain whether the stragegy(s) identified in the grazing management plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting 

goals and objectives; particularly regarding the pertinent resource concern assessments identified in the Conservation Plan or CPA. Evaluation and monitoring of CPS 528 

and any supporting practices has not been conducted to determine effectiveness of implemented practices.

After Situation:

Producer will utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all grazing management practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, 

Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA 159. Evaluation and monitoring activities will provide all needed information to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing 

management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. A monitoring plan will be implemented with appropriate protocols and data records that evaluate whether the 

grazing strategy identified in the grazing plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting goals and objectives. Specific evaluation activities will be chosen based on stated 

objectives and pertinent resource concerns assessments identified in the Conservation Plan, CPA, Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA. Evaluation and monitoring 

will meet the applicable 'plans and specifications' and 'operation and maintenance' sections found in CPS 528. Other supporting and facilitating conservation practices will 

also be monitored and evaluated. The CEMA narrative will describe the overall methodology, decision support tools and recommended management actions to meet 

purposes and criteria within practice standards. Job sheets and implementation requirement documents found in State's FOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be 

used.

Feature Measure: number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,704.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,704.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 45 $4,704.30
Practice: 219 - Prescribed Grazing Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity

Scenario: #89 - Conservation, Evaluation and Monitoring Activity greater than 10,000 acres

Scenario Description:

Agricultural operation with greater than 10,000 acres grazed land. Natural Resource Concern: Soil erosion, water quality, fish and wildlife, plant condition, or appropriate 

resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Producer is not utilizing a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, Implementation 

Requirement (IR), and/or DIA 159. Information is not being gathered to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. 

A monitoring plan has not been developed to ascertain whether the stragegy(s) identified in the grazing management plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting 

goals and objectives; particularly regarding the pertinent resource concern assessments identified in the Conservation Plan or CPA. Evaluation and monitoring of CPS 528 

and any supporting practices has not been conducted to determine effectiveness of implemented practices.

After Situation:

Producer will utilize a certified Technical Service Provider (TSP) to evaluate and monitor all grazing management practices planned in a Conservation Plan, CPA 110, 

Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA 159. Evaluation and monitoring activities will provide all needed information to evaluate the effectiveness of the grazing 

management plan (CPS 528) and any associated practices. A monitoring plan will be implemented with appropriate protocols and data records that evaluate whether the 

grazing strategy identified in the grazing plan is resulting in a movement toward meeting goals and objectives. Specific evaluation activities will be chosen based on stated 

objectives and pertinent resource concerns assessments identified in the Conservation Plan, CPA, Implementation Requirement (IR) and/or DIA. Evaluation and monitoring 

will meet the applicable 'plans and specifications' and 'operation and maintenance' sections found in CPS 528. Other supporting and facilitating conservation practices will 

also be monitored and evaluated. The CEMA narrative will describe the overall methodology, decision support tools and recommended management actions to meet 

purposes and criteria within practice standards. Job sheets and implementation requirement documents found in State's FOTG Section IV Conservation practices may be 

used.

Feature Measure: number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,272.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,272.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, range conservation 1299 Conservation Activity Plan labor to study, plan the use and 

management of rangelands to maximize their use in a sustainable 

manner. Range managers may inventory soils, plants, and animals; 

develop resource management plans; identify monitoring methods and 

collect data using those methods to determine if resource management 

objectives are being met or if adjustments to management activities are 

needed. For example, they may help ranchers attain optimum livestock 

production by determining the number and kind of animals to graze, 

the grazing system to use, and the best season for grazing. Cost 

associated with this component includes overhead and benefits (market 

price).

Hours $104.54 60 $6,272.40
Practice: 221 - Soil Organic Carbon Stock Monitoring

Scenario: #9 - Carbon Stock Monitoring

Scenario Description:

Soil is collected for organic carbon testing to evaluate and monitor the change in soil carbon stocks before and after the implementation of a conservation practice or 

conservation plan An area of interest (AOI) of <20 acres is identified in a region that is relatively uniform and is representative of a larger management unit. There are no 

inclusions or small map units of dissimilar soils, and the topography and vegetation appear uniform. Soil samples are collected by a Qualified Individual (QI) from 4 

different depths at 6 different locations within the AOI. Soil bulk density is measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. Payment includes time 

for soil sampling and sample preparation, submission to the laboratory, and interpretation/delivery of results.

Before Situation:

No recent measurements of soil organic carbon stocks have been made in the AOI. Conservation practices are planned or installed for the purpose of improving soil 

health and sequestering carbon.

After Situation:

Soil bulk density was measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. The results were interpreted and explained to the producer. Initial 

measurements are used to establish benchmark conditions for soil organic carbon stocks. Subsequent measurement are used to evaluate the effectiveness of a 

conservation practice on carbon sequestration and report the change over time.

Feature Measure: Area of Interest Polygon

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,366.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,366.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Auger, Truck Mounted 2049 Truck mounted auger for large diameter excavation. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Hours $114.34 3 $343.02

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Testing, Soil Health Single 2795

Indicator

Single soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial 

activity, or microbial diversity according to technical note 450-03 or 

standard laboratory methods. Includes shipping and handling.

Each $63.15 24 $1,515.60
Practice: 221 - Soil Organic Carbon Stock Monitoring

Scenario: #41 - Carbon Stock Monitoring - Intensive Data Collection

Scenario Description:

Soil is collected for organic carbon testing following the measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification (MMRV) protocol. PODS land use and management 

information is collected and documented. Soil sample collection strategy is planned in an area of interest (AOI) of <10 acres. Soil samples are collected by a Qualified 

Individual (QI). Up to 3 soil map units will be sectioned into 3 with e sample holes/cores. Samples are collected at 4 depths. Soil bulk density is measured before being 

analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. Payment includes time for collecting management information, developing sampling strategy, soil sampling and sample 

preparation, submission to the laboratory, and interpretation/delivery of results.

Before Situation:

No recent measurements of soil organic carbon stocks have been made in the AOI. Conservation practices are planned or installed for the purpose of improving soil health 

and sequestering carbon.

After Situation:

Land use and management information is collected. Soil bulk density was measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. The results were 

interpreted and explained to the producer. Initial measurements are used to establish benchmark conditions for soil organic carbon stocks. Subsequent measurements are 

used to evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice on carbon sequestration and report the change over time.

Feature Measure: Area of Interest - Polygon

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,869.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,869.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 11 $281.60

Auger, Truck Mounted 2049 Truck mounted auger for large diameter excavation. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Hours $114.34 11 $1,257.74

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Materials

Testing, Soil Health Single 2795

Indicator

Single soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial 

activity, or microbial diversity according to technical note 450-03 or 

standard laboratory methods. Includes shipping and handling.

Each $63.15 108 $6,820.20
Practice: 221 - Soil Organic Carbon Stock Monitoring

Scenario: #57 - Intensive Data Collection Carbon Monitoring 9

Scenario Description:

Soil is collected for organic carbon testing following the measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification (MMRV) protocol. PODS land use and management 

information is collected and documents. Soil sample collection strategy is planned in an area of interest (AOI) of <10 acres. Soil samples are collected by a Qualified 

Individual (QI) at 9 different locations within the AOI (3 locations in 3 different strata). Soil bulk density is measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry 

combustion. Payment includes time for collecting management information, developing sampling strategy, soil sampling and sample preparation, submission to the 

laboratory, and interpretation/delivery of results.

Before Situation:

No recent measurements of soil organic carbon stocks have been made in the AOI. Conservation practices are planned or installed for the purpose of improving soil health 

and sequestering carbon.

After Situation:

Land use and management information is collected. Soil bulk density was measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. The results were 

interpreted and explained to the producer. Initial measurements are used to establish benchmark conditions for soil organic carbon stocks. Subsequent measurement are 

used to evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice on carbon sequestration and report the change over time.

Feature Measure: per 9 samples collected

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,530.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,530.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Auger, Truck Mounted 2049 Truck mounted auger for large diameter excavation. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Hours $114.34 7 $800.38

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 9 $970.56

Materials

Testing, Soil Health Single 2795

Indicator

Single soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial 

activity, or microbial diversity according to technical note 450-03 or 

standard laboratory methods. Includes shipping and handling.

Each $63.15 36 $2,273.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 221 - Soil Organic Carbon Stock Monitoring

Scenario: #73 - Intensive Data Collection 12 Carbon Samples

Scenario Description:

Soil is collected for organic carbon testing following the measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification (MMRV) protocol. PODS land use and management 

information is collected and documents. Soil sample collection strategy is planned in an area of interest (AOI) of <10 acres. Soil samples are collected by a Qualified 

Individual (QI) at 12 different locations within the AOI). Soil bulk density is measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. Payment includes time 

for collecting management information, developing sampling strategy, soil sampling and sample preparation, submission to the laboratory, and interpretation/delivery of 

results.

Before Situation:

No recent measurements of soil organic carbon stocks have been made in the AOI. Conservation practices are planned or installed for the purpose of improving soil health 

and sequestering carbon.

After Situation:

Land use and management information is collected. Soil bulk density was measured before being analyzed for organic carbon by dry combustion. The results were 

interpreted and explained to the producer. Initial measurements are used to establish benchmark conditions for soil organic carbon stocks. Subsequent measurement are 

used to evaluate the effectiveness of a conservation practice on carbon sequestration and report the change over time.

Feature Measure: per 12 sample locations

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,599.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,599.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 11 $281.60

Auger, Truck Mounted 2049 Truck mounted auger for large diameter excavation. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Hours $114.34 9 $1,029.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 11 $1,186.24

Materials

Testing, Soil Health Single 2795

Indicator

Single soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, active carbon, microbial 

activity, or microbial diversity according to technical note 450-03 or 

standard laboratory methods. Includes shipping and handling.

Each $63.15 48 $3,031.20
Practice: 222 - Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation

Scenario: #9 - ISME 301 to 1,000 Acres

Scenario Description:

The scenario involves obtaining assistance from a Qualified Individual, designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture, to evaluate the designated 

planning area, then gather knowledge about indigenous knowledge, and deliver results to the client and NRCS. The resulting information can be used to inform the 

conservation planning and implementation processes, meet the client's objectives by addressing one or more NRCS-recognized resource concerns using techniques that 

align with Tribal or Indigenous knowledge.

Before Situation:

Through the NRCS conservation planning process, a conservation planner has identified client objectives for addressing natural resource concerns (Soil, Water, Animals, 

Plants, Air + Energy) and socio-economic considerations such as increasing capacity for Indigenous people to develop sustainable food systems. A deeper understanding of 

the planning area's context for Indigenous people is desired and/or greater knowledge about Indigenous Stewardship Methods (ISM) for land stewardship are desired. A 

Qualified Individual (QI), designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture is available for the program participant to hire (separately from the NRCS 

program contract)to evaluate the land, gather Indigenous knowledge, and provide results to meet the client's objectives and support the conservation planning process.

After Situation:

The client hired a QI to provide the CEMA assistance. The QI has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop an understanding of its capabilities, 

limitations, and needs within a culturally appropriate context. Indigenous knowledge about the planning area has been gathered from sources approved by a Tribe or 

Indigenous culture. The QI verifies with the Tribe's or Indigenous culture's governing body, that the information gathered is accurate- then provides a report, map and 

other supporting documentation of their ISM evaluation of the planning area to the client; and a copy is shared with NRCS. In the future, the information this CEMA 

provides can assists the participant and the planner refine conservation objectives; and realize opportunities to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into a conservation 

plan and/or conservation practice implementations.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,920.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16,920.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 39 $998.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 40 $732.00

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 177 $15,190.14
Practice: 222 - Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation

Scenario: #25 - ISME 1001 to 3,000 Acres

Scenario Description:

The scenario involves obtaining assistance from a Qualified Individual, designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture, to evaluate the designated 

planning area, then gather knowledge about indigenous knowledge, and deliver results to the client and NRCS. The resulting information can be used to inform the 

conservation planning and implementation processes, meet the client's objectives by addressing one or more NRCS-recognized resource concerns using techniques that 

align with Tribal or Indigenous knowledge.

Before Situation:

Through the NRCS conservation planning process, a conservation planner has identified client objectives for addressing natural resource concerns (Soil, Water, Animals, 

Plants, Air + Energy) and socio-economic considerations such as increasing capacity for Indigenous people to develop sustainable food systems. A deeper understanding of 

the planning area's context for Indigenous people is desired and/or greater knowledge about Indigenous Stewardship Methods (ISM) for land stewardship are desired. A 

Qualified Individual (QI), designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture is available for the program participant to hire (separately from the NRCS 

program contract)to evaluate the land, gather Indigenous knowledge, and provide results to meet the client's objectives and support the conservation planing process.

After Situation:

The client hired a QI to provide the CEMA assistance. The QI has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop an understanding of its capabilities, 

limitations, and needs within a culturally appropriate context. Indigenous knowledge about the planning area has been gathered from sources approved by a Tribe or 

Indigenous culture. The QI verifies with the Tribe's or Indigenous culture's governing body, that the information gathered is accurate- then provides a report, map and 

other supporting documentation of their ISM evaluation of the planning area to the client; and a copy is shared with NRCS. In the future, the information this CEMA 

provides can assists the participant and the planner refine conservation objectives; and realize opportunities to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into a conservation 

plan and/or conservation practice implementations.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $22,521.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22,521.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 39 $998.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 60 $1,098.00

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 238 $20,425.16
Practice: 222 - Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation

Scenario: #41 - ISME Less Than or Equal to 10 Acres

Scenario Description:

The scenario involves obtaining assistance from a Qualified Individual, designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture, to evaluate the designated 

planning area, then gather knowledge about indigenous knowledge, and deliver results to the client and NRCS. The resulting information can be used to inform the 

conservation planning and implementation processes, meet the client's objectives by addressing one or more NRCS-recognized resource concerns using techniques that 

align with Tribal or Indigenous knowledge.

Before Situation:

Through the NRCS conservation planning process, a conservation planner has identified client objectives for addressing natural resource concerns (Soil, Water, Animals, 

Plants, Air + Energy) and socio-economic considerations such as increasing capacity for Indigenous people to develop sustainable food systems. A deeper understanding of 

the planning area's context for Indigenous people is desired and/or greater knowledge about Indigenous Stewardship Methods (ISM) for land stewardship are desired. A 

Qualified Individual (QI), designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture is available for the program participant to hire (separately from the NRCS 

program contract)to evaluate the land, gather Indigenous knowledge, and provide results to meet the client's objectives and support the conservation planing process.

After Situation:

The client hired a QI to provide the CEMA assistance. The QI has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop an understanding of its capabilities, 

limitations, and needs within a culturally appropriate context. Indigenous knowledge about the planning area has been gathered from sources approved by a Tribe or 

Indigenous culture. The QI verifies with the Tribe's or Indigenous culture's governing body, that the information gathered is accurate- then provides a report, map and 

other supporting documentation of their ISM evaluation of the planning area to the client; and a copy is shared with NRCS. In the future, the information this CEMA 

provides can assists the participant and the planner refine conservation objectives; and realize opportunities to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into a conservation 

plan and/or conservation practice implementations.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,834.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,834.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 39 $998.40

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 68 $5,835.76
Practice: 222 - Indigenous Stewardship Methods Evaluation

Scenario: #57 - ISME 11 to 300 Acres

Scenario Description:

The scenario involves obtaining assistance from a Qualified Individual, designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture, to evaluate the designated 

planning area, then gather knowledge about indigenous knowledge, and deliver results to the client and NRCS. The resulting information can be used to inform the 

conservation planning and implementation processes, meet the client's objectives by addressing one or more NRCS-recognized resource concerns using techniques that 

align with Tribal or Indigenous knowledge.

Before Situation:

Through the NRCS conservation planning process, a conservation planner has identified client objectives for addressing natural resource concerns (Soil, Water, Animals, 

Plants, Air + Energy) and socio-economic considerations such as increasing capacity for Indigenous people to develop sustainable food systems. A deeper understanding of 

the planning area's context for Indigenous people is desired and/or greater knowledge about Indigenous Stewardship Methods (ISM) for land stewardship are desired. A 

Qualified Individual (QI), designated by the governing body of a Tribe or Indigenous culture is available for the program participant to hire (separately from the NRCS 

program contract)to evaluate the land, gather Indigenous knowledge, and provide results to meet the client's objectives and support the conservation planing process.

After Situation:

The client hired a QI to provide the CEMA assistance. The QI has met with client and visited the planning area, in order to develop an understanding of its capabilities, 

limitations, and needs within a culturally appropriate context. Indigenous knowledge about the planning area has been gathered from sources approved by a Tribe or 

Indigenous culture. The QI verifies with the Tribe's or Indigenous culture's governing body, that the information gathered is accurate- then provides a report, map and 

other supporting documentation of their ISM evaluation of the planning area to the client; and a copy is shared with NRCS. In the future, the information this CEMA 

provides can assists the participant and the planner refine conservation objectives; and realize opportunities to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into a conservation 

plan and/or conservation practice implementations.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,113.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,113.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 39 $998.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Labor

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 92 $7,895.44
Practice: 223 - Forest Management Assessment

Scenario: #9 - CEMA less than or equal to 20 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 1 to 20 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity is needed to provide a forest inventory to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other 

programs to develop and implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 

380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a qualified individual for development of the Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities 

(CEMA) - Forest Inventory. The CEMA criteria requires a forest inventory as a component of a forest management plan to determine current site condition and identify 

resource concerns. Additional CEMA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $845.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $845.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 10 $845.90
Practice: 223 - Forest Management Assessment

Scenario: #25 - CEMA 21 to 100 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 21 to 100 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity is needed to provide a forest inventory to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other 

programs to develop and implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 

380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a qualified individual for development of the Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities 

(CEMA) - Forest Inventory. The CEMA criteria requires a forest inventory as a component of a forest management plan to determine current site condition and identify 

resource concerns. Additional CEMA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,607.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,607.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 19 $1,607.21
Practice: 223 - Forest Management Assessment

Scenario: #41 - CEMA 101 to 250 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 101 to 250 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity is needed to provide a forest inventory to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other 

programs to develop and implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 

380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a qualified individual for development of the Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities 

(CEMA) - Forest Inventory. The CEMA criteria requires a forest inventory as a component of a forest management plan to determine current site condition and identify 

resource concerns. Additional CEMA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,045.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,045.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 36 $3,045.24
Practice: 223 - Forest Management Assessment

Scenario: #57 - CEMA 251 to 500 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 251 to 500 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed species 

stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity is needed to provide a forest inventory to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other 

programs to develop and implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 

380, 314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a qualified individual for development of the Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities 

(CEMA) - Forest Inventory. The CEMA criteria requires a forest inventory as a component of a forest management plan to determine current site condition and identify 

resource concerns. Additional CEMA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,567.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,567.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 54 $4,567.86
Practice: 223 - Forest Management Assessment

Scenario: #73 - CEMA 501 to 1000 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 501 to 1000 acres in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed 

species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity is needed to provide a forest inventory to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other 

programs to develop implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 

314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a qualified individual for development of the Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities 

(CEMA) - Forest Inventory. The CEMA criteria requires a forest inventory as a component of a forest management plan to determine current site condition and identify 

resource concerns. Additional CEMA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,752.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,752.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 68 $5,752.12
Practice: 223 - Forest Management Assessment

Scenario: #89 - CEMA Greater Than 1000 acres

Scenario Description:

Nonindustrial Private Forest Land with a forest management plan. Typical site is approximately 1001 acres or greater in size and consists of existing uneven-aged mixed 

species stands of harvestable trees. Natural Resource Concern: Fish and Wildlife; Soil Erosion; Soil Condition; Water Quality; Plant Condition; on Forest Land.

Before Situation:

The producer currently manages forested lands with an existing forest management plan. Resource concerns exist which are not addressed by a management plan. A 

Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activity is needed to provide a forest inventory to allow the producer to apply for financial assistance through EQIP or other 

programs to develop implement needed conservation practices. Associated Practices: 472, 666, 654, 655,384, 394, 383, 379, 338, 381, 391, 791, 490, 612, 660, 311, 380, 

314, 315.

After Situation:

After EQIP contract approval, participant has obtained services from a qualified individual for development of the Conservation Evaluation and Monitoring Activities 

(CEMA) - Forest Inventory. The CEMA criteria requires a forest inventory as a component of a forest management plan to determine current site condition and identify 

resource concerns. Additional CEMA criteria are detailed in the Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,697.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,697.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, forester 1302 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage nonindustrial private forest 

lands for conservation, economic, and recreational purposes. Will 

inventory the type, amount, and location of standing timber and 

appraise the timber's condition. Will determine how to conserve 

wildlife habitats, improve water quality and soil stability, and how best 

to comply with environmental regulations. May devise plans for 

planting and growing new trees, monitoring trees for healthy growth, 

determining optimal thinning schedules, and increasing carbon capture 

and storage.

Hours $84.59 91 $7,697.69
Practice: 224 - Aquifer Flow Test

Scenario: #10 - Aquifer Flow Test

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario supports the utilization of an existing or planned vertical turbine or submersible pump in an existing or planned water well for pressurizing an 

irrigation or stockwater system where water well flow rate is unknown. An aquifer flow test (e.g., step drawdown or constant rate) will be done to determine the flow rate 

from the well and select a pumping plant to match the pumping requirements of the irrigation or livestock system. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess 

nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water for livestock - Inefficient use of irrigation water; inefficient energy use. Associated Practices: 374 - Farmstead 

Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Micro-irrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 642 - Water Well, 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Before Situation:

Livestock or irrigation system is delivering insufficient water due to unknown volume and flow rate of the aquifer.

After Situation:

With the completion of the aquifer flow test, a known flow rate of the well will determine the correct flow rate and TDH on which a pump can be selected to support an 

irrigation of stockwater system.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,300.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,300.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Aquifer Flow Test 1817 High-volume aquifer flow test. Includes labor and equipment. Hours $191.07 8 $1,528.56

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 226 - Waste Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Assessment

Scenario: #9 - Site Evaluation for Planned Storage- Non-dairy Operation

Scenario Description:

Non-Dairy livestock operation. A Qualified Individual will conduct an onsite investigation. Soil data collection, investigation and interpretation of the properties and 

characteristics, results of tests and samples will be used to determine the appropriateness of the site for the storage facility. Scenario based on one proposed location for 

the planned storage.

Before Situation:

A waste storage, handling or treatment facility is planned for the operation. The proposed location has not be investigated for determination of suitability and feasibility.

After Situation:

An onsite investigation for soil properties and characteristics was conducted. The proposed location met the criteria to allow the type and size of the planned storage 

facility. The report documents all data and results.

Feature Measure: One site evaluated

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,279.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,279.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 10 $1,228.90

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 22 $2,347.84

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 5 $429.10

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 8 $273.60
Practice: 226 - Waste Facility Site Suitability and Feasibility Assessment

Scenario: #25 - Site Evaluation for Planned Storage- Dairy Operation

Scenario Description:

Livestock operation is Dairy. A Qualified Individual will conduct an onsite investigation. Soil data collection, investigation and interpretation of the properties and 

characteristics, results of tests and samples will be used to determine the appropriateness of the site for the storage facility. Scenario based on one proposed location for 

the planned storage.

Before Situation:

A waste storage, handling or treatment facility is planned for the operation. The proposed location has not be investigated for determination of suitability and feasibility.

After Situation:

An onsite investigation for soil properties and characteristics was conducted. The proposed location met the criteria to allow the type and size of the planned storage 

facility. The report documents all data and results.

Feature Measure: One site evaluated

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,972.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,972.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, small surveying crew 1296 Conservation Activity Plan labor to perform surveying and mapping 

duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, 

cartographer, or photogrammetrist to obtain data used for 

construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other 

purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from 

source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, 

or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and 

other features. Cost associated with this component includes two man 

field crew, equipment, vehicle, overhead, and miscellaneous supplies.

Hours $122.89 10 $1,228.90

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 24 $2,561.28

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 9 $772.38

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 12 $410.40
Practice: 227 - Evaluation of Existing Waste Storage Facility Components

Scenario: #9 - Evaluation of Existing Components- small operation

Scenario Description:

A Qualified Individual conducts an on-site investigation of up to 2 manure and wastewater handling and storage structures and equipment at the facilities where the 

livestock are housed. The investigation report will determine whether or not an existing component is in good operating condition. Typical evaluation of 1-2 storage 

structures, collection, may include pump.

Before Situation:

A waste storage facility and associated equipment is in use on the production area. The existing structure has not been evaluated for good operating condition. New or 

expanded waste storage and handling facilities could fail is the existing structure is not evaluated.

After Situation:

The Qualified Individual concludes that the existing storage components are in good working order OR has identified the component needs corrective. The CEMA report 

contains all data and recommendations.

Feature Measure: Per Production Site structures

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,902.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,902.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 34 $3,628.48

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 8 $273.60
Practice: 227 - Evaluation of Existing Waste Storage Facility Components

Scenario: #25 - Evaluation of Existing Components-medium operation

Scenario Description:

A Qualified Individual conducts an on-site investigation of all manure and wastewater handling and storage structures and equipment at the facilities where the livestock 

are housed. The investigation report will determine whether or not an existing component is in good operating condition. Typical livestock production site has 2-5 storage 

and collection structures and may include pump.

Before Situation:

A waste storage facility and associated equipment is in use on the production area. The existing structure has not been evaluated for good operating condition. New or 

expanded waste storage and handling facilities could fail is the existing structure is not evaluated.

After Situation:

The Qualified Individual concludes that the existing storage components are in good working order OR has identified the component needs corrective. The CEMA report 

contains all data and recommendations.

Feature Measure: Per Operation 2-5 Structures

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,610.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,610.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 40 $4,268.80

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 10 $342.00
Practice: 227 - Evaluation of Existing Waste Storage Facility Components

Scenario: #41 - Evaluation of Existing Components- large operation

Scenario Description:

A Qualified Individual conducts an on-site investigation of all manure and wastewater handling and storage structures and equipment at the facilities where the livestock 

are housed. The investigation report will determine whether or not an existing component is in good operating condition. Typical livestock production site has 5 or more 

storage and collection structures and pump(s).

Before Situation:

A waste storage facility and associated equipment is in use on the production area. The existing structure has not been evaluated for good operating condition. New or 

expanded waste storage and handling facilities could fail is the existing structure is not evaluated.

After Situation:

The Qualified Individual concludes that the existing storage components are in good working order OR has identified the component needs corrective. The CEMA report 

contains all data and recommendations.

Feature Measure: Per Operation Structures

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,959.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,959.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 52 $5,549.44

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 12 $410.40
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #9 - Large size, 3 Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 3 enterprises where at least I consists of > 2500 acres of 

crops, > 1000 animal units, more than 6 irrigation pumps, or > 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing On-farm Energy 

Audits Standard. Large operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an agricultural 

operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline assessment of the of 

systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase energy efficiency and 

reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment Activity. Natural 

Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,462.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,462.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 34 $3,628.48

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 24 $1,232.40

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 48 $3,498.72
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #25 - Large size, 4+ Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 4 or more enterprises where at least I consists of > 2500 

acres of crops, > 1000 animal units, more than 6 irrigation pumps, or > 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing On-farm 

Energy Audits Standard. Large operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an agricultural 

operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline assessment of the of 

systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase energy efficiency and 

reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment Activity. Natural 

Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,138.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,138.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 42 $4,482.24

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 28 $1,437.80

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 56 $4,081.84
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #41 - Large size, 2 Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 2 enterprises where at least I consists of > 2500 acres of 

crops, > 1000 animal units, more than 6 irrigation pumps, or > 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing On-farm Energy 

Audits Standard. Large operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an agricultural 

operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline assessment of the of 

systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase energy efficiency and 

reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment Activity. Natural 

Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,785.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,785.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 26 $2,774.72

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 20 $1,027.00

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 40 $2,915.60
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #57 - Medium size, 4+ Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 4 or more enterprises where at least I consists of 301 to 

2500 acres of crops, < 301 to 1000 animal units, 3 - 6 irrigation pumps, or 20,001 to 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 

Performing On-farm Energy Audits Standard. Medium operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and 

components of an agricultural operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a 

baseline assessment of the of systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to 

increase energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy 

Assessment Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,915.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,915.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 36 $3,841.92

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 28 $1,437.80

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 48 $3,498.72
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #73 - Small size, 4+ Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 4 or more enterprises where 1 is not larger than < 300 

acres of crops, < 300 animal units, 1 - 2 irrigation pumps, < 20,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse, or maple syrup processing. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 

Performing On-farm Energy Audits Standard. Small operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and 

components of an agricultural operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a 

baseline assessment of the of systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to 

increase energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy 

Assessment Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,905.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,905.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 32 $3,415.04

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 28 $1,437.80

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 4 $136.80

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 40 $2,915.60
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #89 - Medium size, 3 Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 3 enterprises where at least I consists of 301 to 2500 

acres of crops, < 301 to 1000 animal units, 3 - 6 irrigation pumps, or 20,001 to 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing 

On-farm Energy Audits Standard. Medium operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of 

an agricultural operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline 

assessment of the of systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase 

energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment 

Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,238.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,238.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 28 $2,988.16

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 24 $1,232.40

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 40 $2,915.60
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #105 - Small size, 3 Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 3 enterprises where 1 is not larger than < 300 acres of 

crops, < 300 animal units, 1 - 2 irrigation pumps, < 20,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse, or maple syrup processing. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing 

On-farm Energy Audits Standard. Small operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an 

agricultural operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline 

assessment of the of systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase 

energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment 

Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,228.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,228.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 24 $2,561.28

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 24 $1,232.40

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 3 $102.60

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 32 $2,332.48
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #121 - Medium size, 2 Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 2 enterprises where at least I consists of 301 to 2500 

acres of crops, < 301 to 1000 animal units, 3 - 6 irrigation pumps, or 20,001 to 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing 

On-farm Energy Audits Standard. Medium operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of 

an agricultural operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline 

assessment of the of systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase 

energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment 

Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,562.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,562.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 20 $2,134.40

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 20 $1,027.00

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 32 $2,332.48
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #137 - Small size, 2 Enterprises

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has 2 enterprises where 1 is not larger than < 300 acres of 

crops, < 300 animal units, 1 - 2 irrigation pumps, < 20,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse, or maple syrup processing. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing 

On-farm Energy Audits Standard. Small operations are described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an 

agricultural operation and includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline 

assessment of the of systems, equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase 

energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment 

Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,552.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,552.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 20 $1,027.00

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 2 $68.40

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 24 $1,749.36
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #153 - Large size, 1 Enterprise

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has either > 2500 acres of crops, > 1000 animal units, more 

than 6 irrigation pumps, or > 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing On-farm Energy Audits Standard. A large 

operation is described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an agricultural operation and includes the 

requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline assessment of the of systems, equipment, and 

facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified 

TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of 

Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,109.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,109.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 18 $1,920.96

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 16 $821.60

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 1 $34.20

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 32 $2,332.48
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #169 - Medium size, 1 Enterprise

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has either 301 to 2500 acres of crops, < 301 to 1000 animal 

units, 3 - 6 irrigation pumps, or 20,001 to 40,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing On-farm Energy Audits Standard. A 

medium operation is described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an agricultural operation and includes 

the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline assessment of the of systems, equipment, and 

facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase energy efficiency and reduce energy use. A Certified 

TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment Activity. Natural Resource Concern: Energy Efficiency of 

Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,885.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,885.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 12 $1,280.64

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 16 $821.60

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 1 $34.20

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 24 $1,749.36
Practice: 228 - Agricultural Energy Assessment

Scenario: #185 - Small size, 1 Enterprise

Scenario Description:

An agricultural producer wishes to obtain an energy assessment of their agricultural operation. The operation has either < 300 acres of crops, < 300 animal units, 1 - 2 

irrigation pumps, < 20,000 sq. ft. of heated greenhouse, or maple syrup processing. An enterprise is defined in the ASABE S612 Performing On-farm Energy Audits 

Standard. A small operation is described above. The Ag Energy CEMA is an assessment of the energy consuming activities and components of an agricultural operation and 

includes the requirements of a Type 2 energy audit as described in the ASABE S612 standard. An Ag Energy CEMA includes a baseline assessment of the of systems, 

equipment, and facilities using a typical year of energy use and recommended measures to prioritize on-farm opportunities to increase energy efficiency and reduce 

energy use. A Certified TSP will accomplish all work in accordance with the requirements of the CEMA 228 Agricultural Energy Assessment Activity. Natural Resource 

Concern: Energy Efficiency of Equipment and Facilities.

Before Situation:

Producer currently has minimal knowledge of and no plan for energy conservation. The producer currently manages an operation as described above. Producer intends to 

collaborate with a certified TSP to develop an energy use assessment of their entire operation. The CEMA 228 incorporates recommended measures to maximize energy 

conservation and efficiency. Associated Practices: 374 Farmstead Energy Improvement, 670 Energy Efficient Lighting System, 672 Energy Efficient Building Envelope, 533 

Pumping Plant, or other applicable practices in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

After Situation:

The producer has obtained services from a certified TSP to develop an energy assessment. The CEMA 228 criteria include a baseline assessment using a typical year of 

energy use, energy savings of recommended improvement measures, and information useful for prioritizing implementation of the measures. The documentation may 

include recommendations for associated conservation practices which address energy efficiency. The Ag Energy CEMA meets the basic quality criteria for the CEMA 228 

activity as cited in the NRCS Field Office Technical Guide.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,875.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,875.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 8 $853.76

CAP Labor, Manager 1603 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving supervision or management 

activities. Includes crew supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch 

managers time required for adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $51.35 16 $821.60

CAP Labor, Administrative 1739

Assistant

Conservation Activity Plan labor involving routine clerical and 

administrative functions such as drafting correspondence, scheduling 

appointments, organizing and maintaining paper and electronic files, or 

providing information to callers.

Hours $34.20 1 $34.20

CAP Labor, Energy Auditor 1740 Conservation Activity Plan labor involving analyzing energy efficient 

measures and conducting energy audits of industrial areas and facilities.

Hours $72.89 16 $1,166.24
Practice: 297 - Feral Swine Damage Assessment

Scenario: #21 - Assessment

Scenario Description:

200 acre tract (all land uses) on which feral swine have negatively impacted water quality (and associated aquatic organisms), soil health and vegetative conditions onsite. 

Wildlife habitat has been diminished due to feral swine out-competing native species for the same resources (hard and soft mast, tubers, invertebrates), as well as 

negatively affecting plant regeneration and production. Some species of native wildlife onsite are at risk from predation by feral swine as well as from diseases carried and 

transmitted either directly or indirectly by feral swine.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer currently has no plan or knowledge of how resource concerns are caused or exacerbated by the presence of feral swine. Within existing land uses, 

the producer is interested in management of land to reduce impacts caused by feral swine and improve condition of natural resources.

After Situation:

As a result of feral swine surveillance (coupled with resource and inventory of baseline conditions), the nature and extent of natural resource concerns caused or 

exacerbated by the presence of feral swine are understood through resource assessments sufficient to inform development of a plan of action to meet quality criteria for 

all identified resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Managment Site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $898.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $898.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 18 $574.56

Materials

Camera, Monitoring, Stationary 2638 Motion activated, 8 megapixel, weather proof, stationary camera with 

infrared capability for night operation. Trigger speed of 1 second or less 

with SD card storage up to 32 GB (not included in the price). Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $107.91 3 $323.73
Practice: 297 - Feral Swine Damage Assessment

Scenario: #22 - Evaluation

Scenario Description:

200 acre tract (all land uses) on which feral swine have negatively impacted water quality (and associated aquatic organisms), soil health and vegetative conditions onsite. 

Wildlife habitat has been diminished due to feral swine out-competing native species for the same resources (hard and soft mast, tubers, invertebrates), as well as 

negatively affecting plant regeneration and production. Some species of native wildlife onsite are at risk from predation by feral swine as well as from diseases carried and 

transmitted either directly or indirectly by feral swine.

Before Situation:

Agricultural producer is currently or soon will be implementing feral swine component of a conservation plan but the effectiveness of those activities in improving resource 

conditions is unknown.

After Situation:

Sufficient data and information have been collected to evaluate resource condition relative to baseline conditions and the effectiveness of the feral swine management 

actions. Necessary adaptive management actions are identified and implemented. (Note: All management activities directly involving feral swine, such as trapping, 

euthanasia and disposal of carcasses will be the responsibility of the landowner, APHIS, or other partners. NRCS will have no role in these activities.)

Feature Measure: Management Site

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,276.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,276.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80
Practice: 309 - Agrichemical Handling Facility

Scenario: #13 - Earthen Liquid Containment With A Concrete Handling and Storage Pad

Scenario Description:

An earthen lined agrichemical handling facility is constructed for storage of liquid agrichemicals along with a concrete handling pad for mixing and loading operations. This 

practice addresses water quality degradation and due to mis-handling, storing, and mixing of agrichemicals where nutrients and/or chemicals are running off into surface 

waters or leaching into ground water. Associated practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Diversion (362), Access Road (560), Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant for Water 

Control (533), Nutrient Management (590), Pest Management (595), Roofs and Covers (367).

Before Situation:

Agrichemicals are improperly stored on the ground or next to a well. Operator mixes the agrichemicals and fills the sprayer tank next to a hydrant. Spills or overflows of 

agrichemicals contaminate the soil, runoff to surface waters and leaching to ground water.

After Situation:

An agrichemical handling facility is constructed for storage of liquid agrichemicals along with a concrete pad for mixing and loading operations or storage of dry chemicals 

or both. The average size of the agrichemical handling facility for proper storage of liquid agrichemicals is in an earthen lined containment with bottom dimensions of 30 ft 

x 40 ft. A concrete pad for mixing and loading and storage of dry chemicals, if necessary, is located next to the liquid containment and is 20' x 40' with an application 

equipment length of 36 ft. The concrete pad for mixing and loading operations is sized to contain the length of the agrichemical spray tank and its volume. Install a curbed 

(12 in.) reinforced concrete handling pad for mixing and loading. The reinforced concrete meets the requirements of ACI 350. The concrete is sealed and sloped to a 

collection sump. Appurtenances to provide walls for storage of dry chemicals, if necessary, are included. This practice will contain agrichemicals and prevent 

contamination of surface and ground water resources.

Feature Measure: Floor surface area of Liquid Contain

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,029.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 20 $11,934.20

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 70 $76.30

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 235 $571.05

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 13 $50.31

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 13 $265.72

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 9 $193.59

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 384 $2,864.64

Painting, porous surface, 1497

impermeable

Painting of concrete, foam or other porous surfaces with an 

impermeable coating. Includes materials and application.

Square Feet $1.12 800 $896.00

Emergency shower and eye wash 1499

station

Emergency shower and ewe wash station unit. Materials only. Each $868.23 1 $868.23

Sign, 2' x 1.5' 2257 .125 aluminum, single-sided, with nonreflective, EG reflective or HIP 

reflective face copy. 2 in. x 8 ft. galvanized perforated square steel tube 

signpost with 2.5 x 30 inch galvanized anchor and Windbeam Bolt 

Assembly. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $166.44 1 $166.44
Fire Extinguisher, 40-B:C with 2555

Mounting Bracket

Dry chemical fire extinguishers (classification 40-B:C) effective against 

the most common household fires: wood, paper, fabric, flammable 

liquid fires and live electrical equipment fires. Mounting bracket and 

strap are included for secure placement of extinguisher. Includes 

materials only.

Each $125.65 1 $125.65

Pump, Sump, less than 1/4 HP 2582 Utility pump, corrosion-resistant, compact and portable, self-priming at 

8 ft. or more, 300 GPH at 10 ft., electric, manually operated. Includes 

materials and shipping (pump and motor).

Each $173.45 1 $173.45

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 309 - Agrichemical Handling Facility

Scenario: #14 - Fabricated Liquid Storage With Adjacent Concrete Handling Pad

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario is a fabricated agrichemical handling facility for storage of liquid agrichemicals along with an adjacent concrete mixing and loading pad. Due to 

topography, limited site space and/or geological conditions a fabricated structure is needed. This practice addresses water quality degradation and due to mis-handling, 

storing, and mixing of agrichemicals where nutrients and/or chemicals are running off into surface waters or leaching into ground water. Associated practices: Heavy Use 

Area Protection (561), Diversion (362), Access Road (560), Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant for Water Control (533), Nutrient Management (590), Pest Management (595).

Before Situation:

Agrichemicals are improperly stored on the ground or next to a well. Operator mixes the agrichemicals and fills the sprayer tank next to a hydrant. Spills or overflows of 

agrichemicals contaminate the soil, runoff to surface waters and leaching to ground water.

After Situation:

An agrichemical handling facility is constructed for storage of liquid agrichemicals along with an adjacent handling pad for mixing and loading operations. The average size 

of the fabricated containment is 30 ft x 40 ft with flexible membrane lined walls. The walls are of modular blocks stacked two high for a 4ft wall height on four sides. A 

handling pad for mixing and loading is located adjacent to the liquid containment and is 16' x 32' with an application equipment length of 28 ft. The handling pad for 

mixing and loading operations is sized to contain the length of the agrichemical spray tank and its volume. Install a curbed (6') reinforced concrete handling pad for 

mixing and loading. The concrete is sealed and sloped to a collection sump. This practice will contain agrichemicals and prevent contamination of surface and ground 

water resources.

Feature Measure: Liquid Containment Area + Handlin

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,712.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,259.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 13 $7,757.23

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 15 $16.35

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 27 $104.49

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 27 $551.88

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 4 $86.04

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 213 $1,588.98

Block, pre-cast concrete, modular 1496 Pre-cast concrete blocks, typically 2ft x 2ft x 6ft , includes installation 

and delivery.

Cubic Yards $146.67 42 $6,160.14

Painting, porous surface, 1497

impermeable

Painting of concrete, foam or other porous surfaces with an 

impermeable coating. Includes materials and application.

Square Feet $1.12 512 $573.44

Emergency shower and eye wash 1499

station

Emergency shower and ewe wash station unit. Materials only. Each $868.23 1 $868.23
Sign, 2' x 1.5' 2257 .125 aluminum, single-sided, with nonreflective, EG reflective or HIP 

reflective face copy. 2 in. x 8 ft. galvanized perforated square steel tube 

signpost with 2.5 x 30 inch galvanized anchor and Windbeam Bolt 

Assembly. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $166.44 1 $166.44

Fire Extinguisher, 40-B:C with 2555

Mounting Bracket

Dry chemical fire extinguishers (classification 40-B:C) effective against 

the most common household fires: wood, paper, fabric, flammable 

liquid fires and live electrical equipment fires. Mounting bracket and 

strap are included for secure placement of extinguisher. Includes 

materials only.

Each $125.65 1 $125.65

Pump, Sump, less than 1/4 HP 2582 Utility pump, corrosion-resistant, compact and portable, self-priming at 

8 ft. or more, 300 GPH at 10 ft., electric, manually operated. Includes 

materials and shipping (pump and motor).

Each $173.45 1 $173.45

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 309 - Agrichemical Handling Facility

Scenario: #15 - Concrete storage and handling pad

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario is an agrichemical handling facility for storage and mixing and loading operations. This practice addresses water quality degradation and due to mishandling, storing and mixing of agrichemicals where nutrients and/or chemicals are running off into surface waters or leaching into ground 

water. Associated practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Diversion (362), 

Access Road (560), Pipeline (516), Roof Runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant for Water Control (533), Nutrient Management (590), Pest Management (595), Roofs 

and Covers (367).

Before Situation:

Agrichemicals are improperly stored on the ground or next to a well. Operator mixes the agrichemicals and fills the sprayer tank next to a hydrant. Spills or overflows of 

agrichemicals contaminate the soil, runoff to surface waters and leaching to ground water.

After Situation:

An agrichemical storage and handling facility pad is constructed of concrete. The storage and handling pad may be constructed inside an existing building, in a new 

building using Roofs and Covers (367) for new building structures or outdoors without any type of cover. The average size of the agrichemical handling facility for storage 

and handling is 35' x 40' with an application equipment length of 36 ft. The handling pad for mixing and loading operations is sized to contain the length of the 

agrichemical spray tank and its volume. The reinforced concrete meets the requirements of ACI 350. Install a curbed reinforced concrete handling pad for mixing and 

loading with proper storage of associated dry and/or liquid agrichemicals. The concrete is sealed and sloped to a collection sump. Facility containment is surrounded by 

square and ramped curbs. Appurtenances to provide fresh water, install doors to buildings, walls for storage of chemicals or demolish old concrete in existing buildings 

are included. This practice will contain agrichemicals and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.

Feature Measure: Total Containment Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,247.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 33 $19,691.43

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 22 $85.14

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 22 $449.68

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 35.9 $85.08

Painting, porous surface, 1497

impermeable

Painting of concrete, foam or other porous surfaces with an 

impermeable coating. Includes materials and application.

Square Feet $1.12 1400 $1,568.00

Emergency shower and eye wash 1499

station

Emergency shower and ewe wash station unit. Materials only. Each $868.23 1 $868.23

Sign, 2' x 1.5' 2257 .125 aluminum, single-sided, with nonreflective, EG reflective or HIP 

reflective face copy. 2 in. x 8 ft. galvanized perforated square steel tube 

signpost with 2.5 x 30 inch galvanized anchor and Windbeam Bolt 

Assembly. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $166.44 1 $166.44
Fire Extinguisher, 40-B:C with 2555

Mounting Bracket

Dry chemical fire extinguishers (classification 40-B:C) effective against 

the most common household fires: wood, paper, fabric, flammable 

liquid fires and live electrical equipment fires. Mounting bracket and 

strap are included for secure placement of extinguisher. Includes 

materials only.

Each $125.65 1 $125.65

Pump, Sump, less than 1/4 HP 2582 Utility pump, corrosion-resistant, compact and portable, self-priming at 

8 ft. or more, 300 GPH at 10 ft., electric, manually operated. Includes 

materials and shipping (pump and motor).

Each $173.45 1 $173.45

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 309 - Agrichemical Handling Facility

Scenario: #16 - For Greenhouse, Pallet Drum Storage And Poly Pad For Handling

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario is an agrichemical storage and handling facility for mixing and loading operations within a greenhouse. This practice addresses water quality 

degradation and due to mis-handling, storing, and mixing of agrichemicals where nutrients and/or chemicals are running off into surface waters or leaching into ground 

water. Associated practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Diversion (362), 

Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant for Water Control (533), Nutrient Management (590), Pest Management (595)

Before Situation:

Agrichemicals are improperly stored on the ground or next to a well. Operator mixes the agrichemicals and fills the sprayer tank next to a hydrant. Spills or overflows of 

agrichemicals contaminate the soil, runoff to surface waters and leaching to ground water.

After Situation:

This scenario is an agrichemical handling facility storage an impermeable barrier poly pad for mixing and loading operations. The average size of the agrichemical handling 

storage is for a pallet drum on a 5 ft x 5 ft contaiment pallet with sump capacity included. A poly pad is used for mixing and loading that is 8ft x 8ft with an application 

equipment length of 4 ft. The handling pad for mixing and loading operations is sized to contain the length of the agrichemical spray tank and its volume. This practice 

will contain agrichemicals and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.

Feature Measure: Storage Area + Mixing Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 89.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,179.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

2 Drum Spill Pallet, 66 Gallon 1610 Pre fabricated containment basin with a capacity of approximately 66 

gal. Materials only.

Each $352.79 1 $352.79

PVC Containment Basin, 6' x 6' 1611 Poly containment basin typically 8 to12 inches deep with area 

dimensions in the range of 6' x 6' or larger.

Square Feet $22.84 64 $1,461.76

Pump, Sump, less than 1/4 HP 2582 Utility pump, corrosion-resistant, compact and portable, self-priming at 

8 ft. or more, 300 GPH at 10 ft., electric, manually operated. Includes 

materials and shipping (pump and motor).

Each $173.45 1 $173.45
Practice: 311 - Alley Cropping

Scenario: #249 - Alley Cropping-single row

Scenario Description:

The crop or grass land is planted with rows of trees to increase crop diversity. Final row width, and spacing of trees within the row, is based on farm equipment size, 

growth form of trees, light needs of annual crop or grass, and intent of the landowner. The resource concerns are plant condition - inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

The landscape has been cropped or in perennial grass for many years. It is void of any perennial tree vegetation. On cropland site preparation needs may need deep 

ripping to eliminate any plow pan and on grass land competing vegetation control is accomplished prior to tree planting.

After Situation:

Trees have been established to diversify the crop production of the field. Typically the area planted is 10 acres on approximately 12 x 40 foot spacing. 

Feature Measure: planted seedling

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 900.00

Scenario Total Cost: $37,744.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 80 $798.40

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 90 $6,825.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 180 $4,298.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 80 $2,491.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 910 $14,359.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 5 in. 1571

x 48 in.

5 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 910 $4,813.90

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 910 $63.70

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 910 $2,211.30

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 311 - Alley Cropping

Scenario: #250 - 3-row alley cropping

Scenario Description:

Cropland is planted with trees in 3-row sets with 40 foot alleyways in between. The outside rows of trees are conifers and the center row a mast-producing high-value 

hardwood timber species. Between row spacing is 16 feet and between tree spacing is 10 feet. The resource concerns are Plant Condition - inadequate structure and 

composition; Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/ Insufficient Water (inefficient moisture management); Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity).

Before Situation:

The landscape has been cropped for many years. It is void of any perennial tree vegetation. Wind erosion is evident, insufficient water for crops occurs due to excessive 

winds, wildlife habitat score is very low due to the lackof any perennial vegetation. Site preparation needs may include deep ripping to eliminate any plow pan prior to 

tree planting.

After Situation:

Trees have been established to diversify the crop production, reduce erosion by wind and water and improve growing conditions for crops in alleyways. Typically the area 

planted is 10 acres. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,393.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $939.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 2.5 $15.05

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2.5 $77.85

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 605 $605.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 1210 $1,548.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 5 in. 1571

x 48 in.

5 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 605 $3,200.45

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 605 $42.35

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 605 $1,470.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 311 - Alley Cropping

Scenario: #272 - Alley Cropping Single Row - Small Acreage

Scenario Description:

The crop or grass land is planted with rows of trees to increase crop diversity. Final row width, and spacing of trees within the row, is based site size, growth form of trees, 

light needs of annual crop or grass, and intent of the landowner. The resource concerns are plant condition - inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

The landscape has been cropped or in perennial grass for many years. It is void of any perennial tree vegetation. On grassland competing vegetation control is 

accomplished prior to tree planting.

After Situation:

Trees have been established to diversify crop production of the field. Typically the area planted is less than 5 acres on approximately 12 x 40 foot spacing.

Feature Measure: Planted Seedling

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 450.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,922.45

Scenario Cost/Unit: $30.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 75 $938.25

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 75 $1,791.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 450 $7,101.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 5 in. 1571

x 48 in.

5 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 450 $2,380.50

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 900 $63.00

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 450 $1,093.50
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #1 - Embankment Storage Pond

Scenario Description:

An earthen waste impoundment constructed to store wastes such as manure, wastewater, and contaminated runoff as part of an agricultural waste management system. 

This scenario has a design storage volume of more than 865,400 ft3. This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential for surface water 

and groundwater quality degradation. Earthen storage liners are addressed with another standard. Vehicular and equipment access is addressed in Heavy Use Area 

Protection (561). Adequately protect liner at agitation and access points. The impoundment will have constructed berms greater than 3' 

high. 

 Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Waste 

Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), and Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources.

After Situation:

An earthen storage structure constructed from on-site material provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This 

facility provides the landowner a means of storing waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical design size: 

design storage volume 865,400 ft3; The design storage of the pond is 250' x 250' bottom, with 10.8 feet of depth. The pond is constructed by a combination of excavation 

and earthfill with an embankment fill height greater than 3 feet. 3:1 inside and outside side slopes are utilizedfor the excavation and embankment; (not inclued in design 

volume - freeboard and sludge accumulation). 

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 865,400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $67,394.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 16520 $63,932.40

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1860 $1,562.40

Materials

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 8 $35.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #2 - Excavated Storage Pond

Scenario Description:

An earthen waste impoundment constructed to store wastes such as manure, wastewater, and contaminated runoff as part of an agricultural waste management system. 

This scenario has a design storage volume of more than 382,000 ft3. This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential for surface water 

and groundwater quality degradation. Earthen storage liners are addressed with another standard. Vehicular and equipment access is addressed in Heavy Use Area 

Protection (561). Adequately protect liner at agitation and access points. The impoundment will have constructed berms less than 3' high. Potential Associated 

Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), 

Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection 

(561), Roofs and Covers (367), and Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources.

After Situation:

An earthen storage structure constructed from on-site material provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This 

facility provides the landowner a means of storing waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical design size: 

design storage volume 382,000 ft3; The pond bottom is 280' x 120' x 10' deep with a small berm normally less than 3' high around the outside of the pond. 3:1 inside and 

outside side slopes; (not included in design volume - freeboard and sludge accumulation). 

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 382,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $53,467.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1415 $5,476.05

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1210 $1,016.40

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 12733 $45,074.82

Materials

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 8 $35.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #3 - Buried Concrete Tank, Less than 14,999 c.f. of storage

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a concrete tank that has a design storage volume from 5,000 to 14,999 CF that is totally or partially buried and has an open top. The tank 

can also be under an animal facility with the top cover of either slats or solid concrete lid/floor. Design volume does not include freeboard. Potential Associated 

Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), 

Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use 

Area Protection (561), Roof and Covers (367), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet 

(620). 

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such 

time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Tank typically 7' deep, with a bottom area of 

1400 SF, and a design storage volume of approximately 9,000 cubic feet plus 6' freeboard. Sizing based on manure, other wastes, rainfall, lot runoff, etc. as appropriate. 

Volume does not include 6' of freeboard.

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 9,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $46,547.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 39.1 $20,622.90

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 30.7 $18,319.00

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 620 $1,506.60

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 195 $1,175.85

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 12 $689.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 61.6 $1,325.02

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 in x 1614

6 in

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 inch thick by 6 inches wide. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Feet $5.51 180 $991.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #4 - Buried Concrete Tank, Between 15,000 to 110,000 c.f. of storage

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a concrete tank that has a design storage volume from 15,000 to 110,000 CF that is totally or partially buried and has an open top. The 

tank can also be under an animal facility with the top cover of either slats or solid concrete lid/floor. Design volume does not include freeboard. Potential Associated 

Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), 

Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use 

Area Protection (561), Roof and Covers (367), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet 

(620). 

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such 

time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Tank typically 10' deep, with a bottom area of 

2,947 SF, and a design storage volume of 20,659 cubic feet plus 2' freeboard and 1' residual. Sizing based on manure, other wastes, rainfall, lot runoff, etc. as appropriate. 

Volume does not include 2' of freeboard, or 1' of residual.

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 20,659.00

Scenario Total Cost: $68,574.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 49 $25,844.56

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 48 $28,642.08

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 334 $2,014.02

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 922 $3,070.26

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 1263 $4,471.02

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 49 $1,053.99

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 in x 1614

6 in

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 inch thick by 6 inches wide. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Feet $5.51 193 $1,063.43

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 3 $551.40

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #5 - Buried Concrete Tank, Greater than 110,000 c.f. of storage

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a concrete tank that has a design storage volume of 110, 000 or more CF. Tank is totally or partially buried and has an open top. Tank 

can also be under a animal facility with the top cover using slats or concrete lid/floor. The design volume does not include freeboard. This practice will address soil and 

water quality by reducing the pollution potential to soil, surface water and ground water. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant 

(521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence 

(382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roof and Covers (367), 

Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620). 

Before Situation:

 Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such 

time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Tank typically 102' X 160' X 8' deep with a bottom 

area of 16,320 SF and a design storage volume of 81,600 CF plus 2' freeboard, and 1' residual. Sizing based on manure, other wastes, rainfall, lot runoff, etc. as 

appropriate. Volume does not include 2' of freeboard, and 1' residual. 

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 81,600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $269,238.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 302.2 $159,392.37

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 134.3 $80,138.15

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2115 $5,139.45

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 432 $2,604.96

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 3 $172.26

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 2115 $7,487.10

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 368 $7,915.68

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 in x 1614

6 in

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 inch thick by 6 inches wide. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Feet $5.51 524 $2,887.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #6 - Steel or Concrete Above Ground Storage Structure

Scenario Description:

An above ground circular glass lined steel or concrete structure constructed to store wastes such as manure, wastewater, and contaminated runoff as part of an 

agricultural waste management system. This typical scenario has a design storage volume of 66,000 ft3. This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the 

pollution potential for surface water and groundwater quality degradation. Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient 

Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment (629), and Pumping Plant (533).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources.

After Situation:

An above ground storage structure provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This facility provides the 

landowner a means of storing waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical design size : design storage 

volume 66,000 ft3, (not included - 1' freeboard); based on 73' X 19' glass lined steel tank

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 66,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $295,408.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 65 $34,283.60

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 39 $23,271.69

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 250 $607.50

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 250 $967.50

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 73 $1,570.23

Waste Storage, glass lined steel 1620

structure, 25,000 - 100,000 cubic 

foot

Includes materials, equipment and labor to install a steel glass lined 

structure (based on typical 73' diameter X 19' height) . Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Cubic Feet $3.53 66000 $232,980.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #7 - Bedded Pack - Concrete Floor and Concrete Walls

Scenario Description:

A composted bedded pack facility is constructed to store wastes such as manure, wastewater, and contaminated runoff as part of an agricultural waste management 

system. This scenario is intended for situations where consistency of manure or geological conditions prohibit the use of earthen floors. This practice will address soil and 

water quality by reducing the pollution potential for surface water and groundwater quality degradation. Concrete walls required to withstand the heavy equipment that 

the producer operates. Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561) and Roofs and 

Covers (367).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources.

After Situation:

Using a bedded pack provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This facility provides the landowner a means 

of storing waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical design: floor area 4,000 ft2, (40' X 100'); 4' concrete 

wall height, 3' footing depth with a 6' concrete floor; 20' openings on each end of structure.

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $67,751.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 74 $39,030.56

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 42 $25,061.82

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 34 $82.62

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 37 $143.19

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 16 $96.48

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 102 $85.68

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 74 $261.96

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 61.7 $1,261.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #9 - Bedded Pack - Earth Floor and Wood Walls

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of a dry stack facility with compacted earthen floor with wooden walls, posts and a concrete curb. This scenario is intended for dryer material such as 

poultry litter. The purpose of this practice is to properly store manure and other agricultural by-products until they can be hauled away from the site for proper disposal 

or utilization on land at agronomical rates. This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential to soil, surface water and ground 

water. Potential Associated practices: 342-Critical Area Planting, 

362-Diversion, 561-Heavy Use Area Protection, 367-Roofs and Covers, 558-Roof Runoff Structure, 317-Composting Facility, 633-Waste Recycling, 634-Waste Transfer, 635-

Vegetated Treatment Area

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

The typical is 4,000 SqFt (40' x 100'). The earthen floor will be prepared by stripping the top 1' of soil and roller compacting an 18' thick compacted floor. Walls are 5' 

pressure treated wood (2' x 8' boards), 6' x 6' x 8' posts set 4' c-c with 6' concrete curbing. Walls allow for greater storage volume. Manure and other agricultural byproducts are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such time that they are disposed of or 

utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,732.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 5.5 $1,273.47

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 12 $689.04

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 12 $119.76

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 148 $523.92

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 90 $2,149.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68

Materials

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 1620 $2,851.20

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 1104 $3,830.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 4 $3,727.76
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #10 - Bedded Pack - Earth Floor and Concrete Walls

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of a dry stack facility (covered) with compacted earthen floor with concrete walls. This scenario is intended to provide storage for manure and 

agricutural by-products that is protected from the environment and can be either inside the animal housing area or a separate facility for separated solids. The purpose of 

this practice is to properly store manure and other agricultural by-products until they can be removed from the site for proper utilization on land at agronomical rates. 

This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential to soil, surface water and ground water. Compacted earth floors required to meet state 

guidelines for seepage should be installed with CPS 521-D, Pond Sealing or Lining - Compacted Clay 

Treatment. Potential Associated practices: 521D-Pond Sealing or 

Lining; Compacted Clay Treatement, 342-Critical Area Planting, 362-Diversion, 561-Heavy Use Area Protection, 367-Roofs and Covers, 558-Roof Runoff Structure, 317-

Composting Facility, 632 - Solid/Liquid Waste Separation, 633-Waste Recycling, 634-Waste Transfer, 635-Vegetated Treatment Area

Before Situation:

Livestock are currently on open lots with runoff un-controlled. Un-controlled runoff is causing off-site damage due to sedimentation and elevated nutrient levels in 

receiving waters.

After Situation:

The typical size of the bedded pack Facility is 40' x 100' (4,000 SF). Facility has an earth floor and 4' high walls with 3' deep footings. A 10' opening is located on each end 

for access. When used as housing, the animal density can be increased by placing under roof and existing open lots abandoned. Using a bedded pack provides an 

environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This facility provides the landowner a means of storing waste until it can be 

utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan.

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $28,728.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 45 $26,851.95

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 3 $154.38

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 150 $406.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #11 - Bedded Pack - Earth Floor with Concrete Walls and Concrete Apron

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of a dry stack facility (covered) with compacted earthen floor with concrete walls. This scenario is intended to provide storage for manure and 

agricutural by-products that is protected from the environment and can be either inside the animal housing area or a separate facility for separated solids. The purpose of 

this practice is to properly store manure and other agricultural by-products until they can be removed from the site for proper utilization on land at agronomical rates. 

This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential to soil, surface water and ground water. Compacted earth floors required to meet state 

guidelines for seepage should be installed with CPS 521-D, Pond Sealing or Lining - Compacted Clay Treatment. Concrete floor will be constructed behind the feedbunk in 

the area with largest manure accumulation, and also to provide an adequate base where equipment will be frequently removing 

manure. Potential Associated practices: 521D-Pond Sealing or Lining; 

Compacted Clay Treatement, 342-Critical Area Planting, 362-Diversion, 561-Heavy Use Area Protection, 367-Roofs and Covers, 558-Roof Runoff Structure, 317-Composting 

Facility, 632 - Solid/Liquid Waste Separation, 633-Waste Recycling, 634-Waste Transfer, 635-Vegetated Treatment Area

Before Situation:

Livestock are currently on open lots with runoff un-controlled. Un-controlled runoff is causing off-site damage due to sedimentation and elevated nutrient levels in 

receiving waters.

After Situation:

The typical size of the bedded pack Facility is 40' x 100' (4,000 SF). Facility has an earth floor and 4' high walls with 3' deep footings. It has a 12' x 100' concrete apron. A 

10' opening is located on each end for access. When used as housing, the animal density can be increased by placing under roof and existing open lots abandoned. Using 

a bedded pack provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This facility provides the landowner a means of 

storing waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan.

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $40,815.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 22.2 $11,709.17

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 45 $26,851.95

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 3 $154.38

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 150 $406.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 18.5 $378.14

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #13 - Dry Stack - Concrete floor and no walls

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of a dry stack facility with reinforced concrete floor without side walls. This scenario is intended for situations where consistency of manure or 

geographical conditions prohibit earthen floors. The purpose of this practice is to properly store manure and other agricultural by-products until they can be hauled away 

from the site for proper disposal or utilization on land at agronomical rates. This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential to soil, 

surface water and ground water. Potential 

Associated practices: 342-Critical Area Planting, 362-Diversion, 561-Heavy Use Area Protection, 367-Roofs and Covers, 558-Roof Runoff Structure, 317-Composting Facility, 

633-Waste Recycling, 634-Waste Transfer, 635-Vegetated Treatment Area

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

The typical is 4,000 SqFt (40' x 100'). The facility floor is 6' reinforced concrete without side walls. Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the 

collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically 

in accordance with a nutrient management plan. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $44,696.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 74.1 $39,083.30

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 74 $286.38

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 148 $523.92

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 50 $1,075.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 4 $3,727.76
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #14 - Dry Stack - Concrete floor and concrete walls

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of a dry stack facility with reinforced concrete floor with side walls. This scenario is intended for situations where consistency of manure or 

geographical conditions prohibit earthen floors. The purpose of this practice is to properly store manure and other agricultural by-products until they can be hauled away 

from the site for proper disposal or utilization on land at agronomical rates. Concrete walls required to withstand the heavy equipment that the producer operates. This 

practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential to soil, surface water and ground 

water. Potential Associated practices: 342-

Critical Area Planting, 362-Diversion, 561-Heavy Use Area Protection, 367-Roofs and Covers, 558-Roof Runoff Structure, 317-Composting Facility, 633-Waste Recycling, 634-

Waste Transfer, 635-Vegetated Treatment Area

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

The typical is 4,000 SqFt (40' x 100'). The facility floor is 6' reinforced concrete with 4' walls on 3 sides. Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by 

the collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, 

typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $58,838.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 74.1 $39,083.30

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 23.7 $14,142.03

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 74 $286.38

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 148 $523.92

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 50 $1,075.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 4 $3,727.76
Practice: 313 - Waste Storage Facility

Scenario: #43 - Earthen Storage Facility, greater than 50K ft3 Storage

Scenario Description:

An earthen waste impoundment constructed to store wastes such as manure, wastewater, and contaminated runoff as part of an agricultural waste management system. 

This scenario has a design storage volume of more than 50,000 ft3. This practice will address soil and water quality by reducing the pollution potential for surface water 

and groundwater quality degradation. Earthen storage liners are addressed with another standard. Vehicular and equipment access is addressed in Heavy Use Area 

Protection (561) to adequately protect liner at agitation and access points. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment (520), Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner (521), Pond Sealing or Lining, Concrete (522), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), 

Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), and Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources.

After Situation:

An earthen storage structure constructed from on-site material provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This 

facility provides the landowner a means of storing waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical design size: 

design storage volume 199,475 ft3; 157'X162' (top); 3:1 inside and outside side slopes; cut/fill ratio = 1.25; total depth = 13' 8' (operational depth = 12', operational volume 

= 170,775 ft3); (1' freeboard and 8' sludge accumulation).

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 199,475.00

Scenario Total Cost: $44,636.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 4375 $16,931.25

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 3284 $10,935.72

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 741 $622.44

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 3634 $12,864.36

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 30 $1,512.00

Materials

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 15 $67.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #3 - Mechanical and Chemical, Low Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of woody vegetation on gently sloping to moderately deep to deep soils. The practice requires the felling of trees and brush using a mechanical cutter, chopper 

or other light equipment, and applying herbicide to cut stump resprouting tree/brush species, as necessary, in order to improve ecological site conditions. Brush density 

has met or exceeded low or light infestation (1-5% canopy depending upon species) levels based on ecological site potential as determined by state specific criteria. Typical 

unit is 80 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of low or light infestations of trees and shrub species which degrade desirable plant productivity, health and vigor of pasture or range units, thus promoting 

invasive non-herbaceous species and degrading wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend; hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,713.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $71.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 10 $574.20

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 25 $2,949.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 35 $1,089.90

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 2.5 $85.40

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 2.5 $4.03

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #5 - Mechanical and Chemical, Heavy Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of woody vegetation on gently sloping terrain with moderately deep to deep soils. The practice requires the felling and potential piling of trees and brush using a 

mechanical cutter, chopper, or other light equipment, and applying herbicide to cut stump resprouting tree/brush species, as necessary, in order to improve ecological site 

conditions. Brush density has met or exceeded heavy or high infestation (averaging >15% canopy depending upon species) levels based on ecological site potential as 

determined by state specific criteria. Typical unit is 10 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of heavy or high infestations of trees and shrub species which degrade desirable plant productivity, health and vigor of pasture or range units, thus promoting 

invasive non-herbaceous species and degrading wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,848.91

Scenario Cost/Unit: $484.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 10 $574.20

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 20 $2,359.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 30 $934.20

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 2.5 $85.40

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 2.5 $4.03

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #6 - Chemical, Uplands

Scenario Description:

This practice is for the implementation of brush management on range, pasture or native pasture to reduce undersirable brush in uplands, and other areas not in, or 

directly adjacent to, streams, ponds, or wetlands. The typical method of control uses aerial or broadcast application of herbicides to control undesirable plants. Entire unit 

has infestation levels exceeding state identified levels; entire unit is treated with broadcast application.

Before Situation:

Brush species exceed desired levels resulting in degraded plant condition, loss of forage production, or degraded wildlife habitat. Densities of brush exceed levels 

indicated in the ecological site descriptions.

After Situation:

Brush has been treated to a level which results in improved plant condition, forage production, or wildlife habitat. The typical method of control is application of 

herbicides (basal or foliar location) on select individual plants.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,526.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $30.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 50 $339.50

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D 330 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $10.10 20 $202.00

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 15 $289.20

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 15 $512.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #7 - Chemical - Riparian

Scenario Description:

Apply chemical brush management techniques on an isolated riparian area within a 80 acre planning unit which is directly adjacent to a stream (may include ponds or 

wetlands) associated with rangeland (may include grazed forest, pasture, or other landuses) to control undesirable deciduous species in order to improve ecological/range 

site condition. Treatment is applied to a 2 acres isolated area adjacent to a stream which uses broadcast/aerial specialized herbicide(s) application on the entire 2 acres to 

reduce or remove trees and/or brush which are not appropriate for the site(s).

Before Situation:

Plant, animal, or wildlife resource concerns associated with ripairian areas and other areas in or adjacent to the stream (incl. ponds or wetlands) on grazed range (incl. 

grazed forest, pasture, or other landuses) which are adversely affected by undesirable trees and/or brush which degrade ecological site condition as identified by state 

specific ecological/range site description.

After Situation:

Isolated riprarian community infested with undesirable tree and/or shrub species within a range unit (incl. grazed forest, pasture, or other landuse) where reduction or 

removal of undesirable deciduous species adjacent to a stream (incl. ponds or wetlands) has been accomplished through the use of appropriate chemical application to 

address plant, animal, and wildlife resource concerns, thus improving ecological/range site condition.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $821.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $410.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 1 $34.16

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #8 - Chemical, Foliar Spot Treatment 

Scenario Description:

Apply foliar chemical brush management techniques (aerial fixed wing or ground rig) on isolated upland areas within a 80 acre planning unit (not directly adjacent to 

streams, ponds or wetlands) associated with rangeland (may include grazed forest, pasture, or other landuses) to control undesirable deciduous species in order to 

improve ecological/range site conditions. Treatment is applied to 10 acre isolated areas (not adjacent to a stream, wetland or pond), using broadcast/aerial herbicide(s) 

application, on the entire 10 acres to reduce or remove trees and/or brush which are not appropriate for the site(s). Foliar application of material using the most effecitve, 

low cost chemical(s).

Before Situation:

Plant, animal, or wildlife resource concerns associated with upland areas (not in or adjacent to streams, ponds, or wetlands) on grazed range (incl. grazed forest, pasture, 

or other landuses) which are adversely affected by undesirable trees and/or brush which degrade ecological site conditions as identified by state specific ecological/range 

site description.

After Situation:

Isolated upland areas infested with undesirable tree and/or shrub species within a range unit (incl. grazed forest, pasture, or other landuse) where reduction or removal of 

undesirable deciduous species (not adjacent to or within a stream, ponds, or wetlands) has been accomplished through the use of appropriate foliar chemical application 

to address plant, animal, and wildlife resource concerns, thus improving ecological/range site conditions.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $479.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2.5 $45.75

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D 330 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $10.10 2 $20.20

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 4 $77.12

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 4 $136.64

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 10 $16.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #38 - Mechanical and Chemical, Medium Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of woody vegetation on gently sloping to moderately deep to deep soils. The practice requires the felling of trees and brush using a mechanical cutter, chopper 

or other light equipment, and applying herbicide to cut stump resprouting tree/brush species, as necessary, in order to improve ecological site conditions. Brush density 

has met or exceeded medium or moderate infestation (averaging 6-15% canopy depending upon species) levels based on ecological site potential as determined by state 

specific criteria. Typical unit is 80 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of medium or moderate infestations of trees and shrub species which degrade desirable plant productivity, health and vigor of pasture or range units, thus 

promoting invasive non-herbaceous species and degrading wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend; hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,818.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $172.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 32 $1,837.44

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 64 $7,551.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 96 $2,989.44

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 8 $273.28

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 8 $12.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #43 - Chemical, Individual Plant Treatment

Scenario Description:

This Practice is for the implementation of brush management on range, pasture or native pasture using Individual Plant Treatment (IPT). The typical method of control is 

application of herbicides (basal or foliar location) on selected individual plants.

Before Situation:

Brush species exceed desired levels resulting in degraded plant condition, loss of forage production, or degraded wildlife habitat. Densities of brush exceed levels 

indicated in the ecological site descriptions.

After Situation:

Brush has been treated to a level which results in improved plant condition, forage production, or wildlife habitat. The typical method of control is application of 

herbicides (basal or foliar location) on selected individual plants.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,817.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $45.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 10 $825.90

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 10 $183.00

Materials

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 8 $12.88

Herbicide, Triazine 1321 Broad spectrum herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and 

active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $66.83 8 $534.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #78 - Mechanical and Chemical, Severe Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of woody vegetation on gently sloping terrain with moderately deep to deep soils. The practice requires the felling and potential piling of trees and brush using a 

mechanical cutter, chopper, or other light equipment, and applying herbicide to cut stump resprouting tree/brush species, as necessary, in order to improve ecological site 

conditions. Brush density has met or exceeded severe infestation (averaging 45% or greater canopy depending upon species) levels based on ecological site potential as 

determined by state specific criteria. Typical unit is 5 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of severe infestations of trees and shrub species which degrade desirable plant productivity, health and vigor of pasture or range units, thus promoting 

invasive non-herbaceous species and degrading wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,743.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $748.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 10 $574.20

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 10 $1,179.90

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 30 $934.20

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 1.25 $42.70

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1.25 $2.01

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #276 - Mechanical, Hand tools

Scenario Description:

Using hand tools, such as axes, shovels, hoes, nippers, brush pullers, and including chainsaws to remove or cut off woody plants at of below the root collar. Typical area is 

moderate rolling to gentle sloping, moderately deep to deep soils that have stands of woody and non herbaceous species that are in the early phases of invasions. Typical 

unit is 80 acres.

Before Situation:

Area is in the very early phases of woody non herbaceous species encroachment that degrades habitat for desired wildlife species. Future degradation of key forage 

species and ecological site condition promoting noxious and invasive species and increased soil erosion if woody species are allowed to expand. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition continues to progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor are sustained.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,972.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $62.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 160 $1,017.60

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 20 $46.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 160 $3,820.80
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #277 - Mechanical, Small Shrubs, Medium Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of small woody vegetation of medium infestations on gentle sloping to moderately deep to deep soils. The practice entails the removal of brush by the use of 

mechanical cutter, chopper or other light equipment in order to reduce fuel loading and improve ecological site condition. Brush density has exceeded desired levels based 

on ecological site potential. It has been determined that the brush is at the medium infestation. Typical unit is 120 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of shrub species degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading wildlife 

habitat. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,719.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $97.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 75 $8,849.25

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 75 $2,335.50

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #281 - Split-method event series

Scenario Description:

The practice entails the control of woody vegetation by treating it up to three times during the multi-year treatment period in order to improve ecological site condition. 

The brush can be treated with the same method or by a combination of methods. Woody vegetation needs to be treated at least twice in order to fully control it. 

Generally,herbicide volumes are reduced as the last treatment will kill resprouting stems or those which survived the first treatment or newly sprouted seedlings. Brush 

density has exceeded desired levels based on ecological site potential. 

Before Situation:

 Area has excessive stands of woody species degrading health and vigor of desireable species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,512.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $170.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 120 $3,826.80

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 180 $1,222.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 90 $3,301.20

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 120 $3,736.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 180 $6,148.80

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 180 $289.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 4 $1,227.28
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #290 - Chemical - Ground Applied 

Scenario Description:

Apply brush management on 160 acres of rangeland, grazed forest, or pasture thru the use of broadcast application of material using low cost chemical(s) to reduce or 

remove undesirable deciduous species (brush) in uplands and other areas not in or directly adjacent to streams, ponds, or wetlands. 

Before Situation:

Plant, animal, or wildlife resource concerns associated with uplands and other areas not in or adjacent to stream, ponds, or wetland on grazed range, grazed forest, or 

pasture which are adversely affected by brush.

After Situation:

A 160 acre unit of pasture, grazed range, or grazed forest where reduction or removal of undesirable deciduous species have been accomplished by broadcast or spot 

treatment chemical application to address plant, animal, and wildlife resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,352.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $33.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 160 $1,086.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 160 $3,084.80

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 160 $257.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #291 - Mechanical & Chemical, Small Shrubs, Medium Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of small woody vegetation of medium infestations on gentle sloping to moderately deep to deep soils. The practice entails the removal of brush by the use of 

mechanical cutter, chopper or other light equipment followed by an application of low cost chemicals in low volumes of material in order to reduce fuel loading and 

improve ecological site condition. Brush density has exceeded desired levels based on ecological site potential. It has been determined that the brush is at the medium 

infestation rate. Typical unit is 120 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of shrub species degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading wildlife 

habitat. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,041.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $125.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 75 $8,849.25

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 120 $814.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 75 $2,335.50

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Materials

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 120 $2,313.60

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 120 $193.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #292 - Mechanical, Large Shrubs, Medium Infestation

Scenario Description:

Removal of large woody vegetation of medium infestations on gentle sloping to moderately deep to deep soils. The practice entails the removal of brush by pushing, 

grubbing, masticating, chaining and then raking or piling in order to reduce fuel loading and improve ecological site condition. Brush density has exceeded desired levels 

based on ecological site potential. It has been determined that the brush is at the medium infestation. Typical unit is 120 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of shrub species degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading wildlife 

habitat. 

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $45,399.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $378.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 200 $36,920.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 200 $7,320.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #329 - Chemical, Aerial Applied 

Scenario Description:

Apply brush management on 160 acres of rangeland, grazed forest, or pasture thru the use of broadcast aerial application of material with low cost chemical(s) to reduce 

or remove undesirable deciduous species (brush) in uplands and other areas not in or directly adjacent to streams, ponds, or wetlands. 

Before Situation:

Plant, animal, or wildlife resource concerns associated with uplands and other areas not in or adjacent to stream, ponds, or wetland on grazed range, grazed forest, or 

pasture which are adversely affected by brush.

After Situation:

A 160 acre unit of pasture, grazed range, or grazed forest where reduction or removal of undesirable deciduous species have been accomplished by broadcast or spot 

treatment chemical application to address plant, animal, and wildlife resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,071.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Chemical, aerial application, fixed 947

wing

Chemical application performed by fixed wing aircraft. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $11.10 500 $5,550.00

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 500 $9,640.00

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 500 $805.00
Practice: 314 - Brush Management

Scenario: #375 - Brush Management for 1 Ac. or less

Scenario Description:

Using hand tools and small power tools to remove or cut off invasive woody plants at or below the root collar. Typically this scenario is for woody and non-herbaceous 

species that are in early phases of invasion and are degrading herbaceous plant health and vigor for the 1 acre small farm.

Before Situation:

Small farm area is in various phases of woody non-herbaceous species enroachment that degrades the biotic integrity of the site resulting in poor herbaceous plant health 

and vigor. Continued degradation results in increased invasive woody species and poor hydrological site characteristics.

After Situation:

Woody species are removed to achieve desirable biotic conditions for herbaceous plant health and vigor. Hydrological site characteristics and plant health and vigor are 

improved, and plant pest pressure from invasive woody species is reduced.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $465.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $465.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 1 $6.36

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 2 $4.62

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #1 - Chemical, Ground or Aerial Treatment

Scenario Description:

Land unit on which weed control would be beneficial in order to set back the plant community succession, improve the ecological condition, and improve forage 

conditions for domestic livestock or wildlife. The practice entails the eradication of vegetation by use of weed treatment using ground or aerial equipment to apply 

chemicals, in order to eliminate noxious weeds, promote forage productivity, and improve ecological condition.

Before Situation:

Area consists of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds in existing or newly seeded or planted stands. Excessive weed growth degrades health and vigor of native 

herbaceous species, promoting noxious and invasive species or undesirable plant species and degrading wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are treated and controlled to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. 

Desirable plant community is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,021.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $25.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, aerial application, fixed 947

wing

Chemical application performed by fixed wing aircraft. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $11.10 80 $888.00

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 80 $543.20

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 160 $2,025.60

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 160 $257.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #2 - Chemical, Wetland

Scenario Description:

Using ground rigs and hand held equipment to treat herbaceous plants in wetland and riparian areas. Typical area is moderately rolling to gently sloping terrain with 

moderately deep to deep soils that have herbaceous weed species in the early phases of invasions. Typical unit is 10 acres.

Before Situation:

Area is in the very early phases of herbaceous weed encroachment that degrade habitat for desired wildlife species. Future degradation of wildlife habitat and ecological 

site condition promotes noxious, invasive, and undesirable species encroachment. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are treated and controlled to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. 

Ecological condition continues to progress in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor are improved or sustained, wildlife habitat is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $369.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapic 335 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $10.19 10 $101.90

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 10 $16.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #3 - Mechanical

Scenario Description:

Removal of light infestations of herbaceous weeds on gently sloping terrain with moderately deep to deep soils. The practice entails the removal of herbaceous weeds by 

the use of a mower, brush hog, disc, or other light equipment, in order to reduce fuel load and improve the ecological site condition. Weeds have exceeded desired levels 

based on ecological site potential. For organic and non-organic farms.

Before Situation:

Area consists of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading the health and vigor of native herbaceous species and wildlife habitat while promoting noxious and 

invasive species encroachment. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desired plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor are returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $246.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 4 $127.56

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #4 - Mechanical, Tree Establishment

Scenario Description:

Land unit on which weed control would be beneficial to set back the plant community succession, improve the ecological condition, and improve stand establishment of 

herbaceous or deciduous plantings. The practice entails the eradication of vegetation by use of weed treatment, through tillage, to eliminate undesirable weeds, promote 

stand establishment, improve ecological condition and wildlife habitat.

Before Situation:

Area consists of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading the health and vigor of tree species in rows or plantings.

After Situation:

Undesirable herbaceous weeds are controlled or removed in and around tree planting, through tillage, to achieve a desirable plant community based on species 

composition, structure, and density. Tree stand condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor are returning to near normal levels, and 

wildlife habitat is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $343.45

Scenario Cost/Unit: $343.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 1 $22.09

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #5 - Chemical, Tree Establishment - Banding

Scenario Description:

Tree establishment in which weed control would be beneficial in order to set back the plant community succession, improve the ecological condition, and improve the 

health and vigor of the stand. The practice entails the management of undesirable plants (including invasive and non-invasive species) with a post-emergent selective 

herbicide for the establishment of a tree planting on four acres. Broadcast or spot treatment application of a narrow band of herbicide (2-4 feet wide) along the tree row, 

or around individual trees, is an example of banding herbicides to control weeds. In order to receive payment, the landowner, at a minimum, must utilize and maintain 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles including scouting, biological and/or low risk pesticides.

Before Situation:

Area consists of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading the health and vigor of tree rows and timber establishments, promoting undesirable plants, noxious and 

invasive species, and degrading wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are controlled with in-row herbicide treatment prior to, or after, trees are planted to achieve the desirable plant community based on species 

composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Individual tree, and timber stand health and condition, is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant 

health and vigor are returning to near normal levels, and wildlife habitat is improved. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $288.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $72.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 4 $27.16

Materials

Herbicide, pendamethalin 2041 Used in pre-emergence and postemergence applications to control 

annual grasses and certain broadleaf weeds for different crops 

including cereals (wheat, barley, rye, triticale), corn, soybeans, rice, 

potato, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.44 4 $77.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #6 - Chemical, Tree Establishment - Post-emergent Herbicide

Scenario Description:

Tree establishment in which weed control would be beneficial in order to set back the plant community succession, improve the ecological condition, and improve the 

heatlh and vigor of the stand. The practice entails the management of undesirable plants (including invasive and non-invasive species) with a post-emergent selective 

herbicide for the establishment of a tree planting on four acres. Broadcast or spot treatment application of a narrow band of herbicide (2-4 feet wide) along the tree row 

or around individual trees is an example of banding herbicides to control weeds. In order to receive payment, the landowner, at a minimum, must utilize and maintain 

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles including scouting, biological and/or low risk pesticides.

Before Situation:

Area consists of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading the health and vigor of tree rows and timber establishments promoting undesirable plants, noxious and 

invasive species, and degrading wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are controlled with post-emergent herbicides to achieve the desired plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy 

cover or height. Permits individual trees and timber stands to be planted to promote/improve soil health and condition, hydrology, plant health and vigor, and wildlife 

habitat. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $269.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $67.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 4 $27.16

Materials

Herbicide, Clopyrilad or 332

Aminopyralid

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $5.34 4 $21.36

Herbicide, sulfosulfuron 2043 For the control of annual broad-leaved weeds and grass weeds in 

cereals. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $9.17 4 $36.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #22 - split-method and event series

Scenario Description:

The practice entails the control of herbaceous vegetation by treating it up to three times during the multi-year treatment period in order to improve ecological site 

condition. The herbs can be treated with the same method or by a combination of methods. Vegetation needs to be treated at least twice in order to fully control it. 

Generally,herbicide volumes are reduced as the last treatment will kill resprouting stems or those which survived the first treatment or newly sprouted seedlings. Density 

has exceeded desired levels based on ecological site potential. 

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading 

wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,717.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $148.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 6 $191.34

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 50 $339.50

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 12 $440.16

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 50 $1,708.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #23 - Chemical, Aerial

Scenario Description:

Land unit on which weed control would be beneficial in order to set back the plant community succession, improve the ecological condition, and improve forage 

conditions for domestic livestock or wildlife. The practice entails the eradication of vegetation by use of weed treatment using airplane or helicopter to apply chemicals, in 

order to eliminate noxious weeds, promote forage productivity, and improve ecological condition.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading 

wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $627.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $31.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Chemical, aerial application, fixed 947

wing

Chemical application performed by fixed wing aircraft. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $11.10 20 $222.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D 330 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $10.10 20 $202.00

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 20 $32.20
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #25 - Mechanical, Hand

Scenario Description:

Using hand tools, such as axes, shovels, hoes, nippers, to remove or cut off herbaceous plants at of below the root collar. Typical area is moderate rolling to gentle sloping, 

moderately deep to deep soils that have herbaceous weed species that are in the early phases of invasions. Typical unit is 20 acres.

Before Situation:

Area is in the very early phases of herbaceous weed encroachment that degrades habitat for desired wildlife species. Future degradation of key forage species and 

ecological site condition promoting noxious and invasive species and increased soil erosion if woody species are allowed to expand. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition continues to progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor are sustained.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $586.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 5 $91.50

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 16 $36.96

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #26 - Chemical, Spot

Scenario Description:

Land unit on which weed control would be beneficial in order to set back the plant community succession, improve the ecological condition, and improve forage 

conditions for domestic livestock or wildlife. The practice entails the eradication of vegetation by use of weed treatment, either initial or retreatment using hand-carried 

equipment (such as a backpack and hand-sprayer) to apply chemicals, in order to eliminate noxious weeds, promote forage productivity, and improve ecological condition.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading 

wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,194.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $59.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 18 $329.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 20 $253.20

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 20 $32.20
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #27 - hand and chemical

Scenario Description:

Using hand tools, such as axes, shovels, hoes, nippers, to remove or cut off herbaceous plants at or below the root collar. Herbicide is applied to control re-growth of 

target weeds. Typical area is moderate rolling to gentle sloping, moderately deep to deep soils that have herbaceous weed species that are in the early phases of 

invasions. Typical unit is 10 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading 

wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,381.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $138.19

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 10 $825.90

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 5 $91.50

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 10 $23.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #28 - mechanical and chemical

Scenario Description:

Removal of herbaceous weeds of light infestations on gentle sloping to moderately deep to deep soils. The practice entails the removal of herbaceous weeds by the use of 

mower, brush hog, disc or other light equipment in order to reduce fuel loading and improve ecological site condition, then applying herbicide to control re-growth of 

target weeds. Weed has exceeded desired levels based on ecological site potential. Typical unit is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Area consist of excessive stands of herbaceous weeds degrading health and vigor of native herbaceous species promoting noxious and invasive species and degrading 

wildlife habitat. 

After Situation:

Herbaceous weeds are removed to achieve the desirable plant community based on species composition, structure, density, and canopy cover or height. Ecological site 

condition is progressing in an upward trend, hydrology and plant health and vigor is returning to near normal levels, and improved wildlife habitat. 

Feature Measure: acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,403.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $35.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 5 $159.45

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 10 $428.90

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 10 $16.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #85 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment for One Acre or less (not to exceed 1 acre)

Scenario Description:

Using hand and small power tools to remove or cut off herbaceous invasive plants at or below the root collar. Typically this scenario is for herbaceous invasive species that 

are degrading the 1 acre small farm.

Before Situation:

Small farm area is in various phases of herbaceous species enroachment that degrades the biotic integrity resulting in poor plant health and vigor, and/or wildlife habitat. 

Continued degradation results in increased plant pest pressure, loss of plant diversity and biotic integrity, and poor hydrological characteristics.

After Situation:

Herbaceous species are removed to achieve desirable biotic conditions and improved plant health and vigor, and/or wildlife habitat. Hydrological site characteristics are 

improved, and plant pest pressure from invasive herbaceous species are reduced.

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.87

Scenario Cost/Unit: $323.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 1 $31.89

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 2 $4.62

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 315 - Herbaceous Weed Treatment

Scenario: #91 - Multi-Year Invasive Annual Grass Control

Scenario Description:

Grazing lands where multi-year control of invasive annual grasses is required. Cheatgrass, medusahead, ventenata, and other invasive annual grasses are present, 

threatening rangeland health and productivity, reducing livestock forage and wildlife habitat, and fueling more frequent and larger wildfires. Pre-emergent herbicide is 

applied to suppress invasive annual grass seedlings, deplete the invasive grass seedbank, and release desired rangeland vegetation. NRCS does not make chemical 

treatment recommendations. Use appropriate NRCS tools for risk assessment and refer to extension publications and product label instructions.

Before Situation:

Invasive annual grasses are present impacting the biotic integrity of rangeland health. Without control of the invasive annual grass seedbank, invasive plants continue to 

spread and outcompete native vegetation.

After Situation:

Appropriate structural/functional plant groups for the ecological site are released from invasive annual grass competition. Rangeland health biotic integrity indicator is 

improved.

Feature Measure: treated acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $92,470.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $92.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Chemical, aerial application, 1991

helicopter

Chemical application performed by helicopter on forest only. Includes 

equipment, mobilization, and labor.

Acres $44.03 1000 $44,030.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Herbicide, Indaziflam 2794 Pre-emergent herbicide for multi-year control of invasive annual 

grasses like cheatgrass, medusahead, ventenata, and red brome on 

rangelands. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $43.04 1000 $43,040.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 4 $3,727.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #2 - Incineration, 50-100CF chamber

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a manufactured Type IV incinerator designed to handle 350 to 850 lbs of average daily mortality for the species and size of the 

operation. Typically very large poultry or medium sized swine operations. System shall use high temperature (>1,300 degrees F) incineration with a secondary combustion 

or afterburner chamber prior to flue discharge. After determining average daily mortality in lbs, select smallest incinerator that meets capacity. Payment made per unit of 

actual chamber size obtained from manufacturers' product literature. This option is not typically least-cost. In most states a roofed static pile with concrete floor and bins 

would be considered least cost. Therefore consider reducing payment rate as per State Conservationist discretion. The purpose of the practice is to address resource 

concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality 

impacts due to odors are reduced, however, in non-attainment areas, certain states may require a higher level of processing such as gasification or other approved 

methods. Potential Associated Practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Access Road (560), Waste Storage Facility (313), 

Nutrient Management (590), Roofs and Covers (367), Critical Area Planting (342).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete incineration, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

In non-attainment areas, certain states may require a higher level of processing such as gasification or different methods. An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic 

mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulation. Incinerator installed to 

handle 700 lbs per day average mortality for a medium poultry or swine operation. Included is a concrete slab to set the incinerator on and a diesel fuel tank. Ash 

materials to be stored in suitable containers until land disposal as per the nutrient managment plan or landfilled. 

Feature Measure: Incinerator Chamber Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 55.80

Scenario Total Cost: $17,484.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $313.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 4 $2,109.76

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 8 $19.44

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 1 $131.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 4 $86.04

Fuel Tank, Anchored 1033 Fuel tank for operating incinerators and/or gasifiers. Materials only. Gallons $5.50 285 $1,567.50

Incinerator, 400 lbs/day 1625 Poultry and livestock incinerator with an approximate chamber capacity 

of 400 pounds per day. Includes equipment and after burner only.

Each $11,971.00 1 $11,971.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #4 - Invessel Rotary Drum, less than 700 CF

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a horizontal rotary drum to compost smaller poultry and swine facility mortality. It can handle between 250 and 600 lbs per day of 

mortality plus equal or higher volumes of carbon material (i.e. wood chips). A secondary composting storage area is required to finish materials. Payment quantity based 

on interior volume of rotary composter in cubic feet of smallest drum that can process daily mortality as per manufacturers' recommendations. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Scenario is needed where the producer has a limited footprint for the installed practice. Potential Associated Practices: Roofs and Covers (367), 

Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587 ), Diversion (362), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers 

normal and catastrophic mortality events. Installed a 5' diameter by 22' long rotary drum on two concrete pads that can process 325 lbs of mortality per day. Drum 

rotation moves and mixes mortality and wood chips. Site preparation includes topsoil removal, gravel pad, and concrete pads and slab at two locations plus small floor 

and walls to complete composting. Input material reduced by 40-60 percent and put into 4' high, three sided, 20'x 20' concrete bin with 10'x20 concrete pad for 

secondary composting. Carbon source is placed into a three sided 30' x 30' with 4' high walls. Area can be protected by adding Roofs and Covers (367 ) standard. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Drum

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 432.00

Scenario Total Cost: $72,440.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $167.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 15 $7,911.60

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 6 $3,580.26

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 28 $108.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 8 $172.08

Composter, drum, 12 CY 1627 12 CY drum composter unit. Total capacity range is 10-19 CY. Includes 

equipment, operation controls, and shipping. Labor not included.

Each $59,789.50 1 $59,789.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #5 - Invessel Rotary Drum, greater than or equal to 700 CF

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a horizontal rotary drum to compost larger poultry and swine facility mortality. It can handle between 600 and 1,000 lbs per day of 

mortality plus equal or higher volumes of carbon material (i.e. wood chips). A secondary composting storage area is required to finish materials. Payment quantity based 

on interior volume of rotary composter in cubic feet of smallest drum that can process daily mortality as per manufacturers' recommendations. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Scenario is needed where the producer has a limited footprint for the installed practice. Potential Associated Practices: Roofs and Covers (367), 

Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587 ), Diversion (362), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers 

normal and catastrophic mortality events. Installed a 5' diameter by 54' long rotary drum on two concrete pads that can process 810 lbs of mortality per day. Drum 

rotation moves and mixes mortality and wood chips. Site preparation includes topsoil removal, gravel pad, concrete pads, slab at two locations plus concrete floor and 

walls to complete composting. Input material reduced by 40-60 percent and put into 4' high, three sided, 30'x 30' concrete bin with 10'x30' concrete pad for secondary 

composting. Area can be protected by adding Roofs and Covers (367) standard. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Drum

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,079.00

Scenario Total Cost: $95,718.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $88.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 30 $15,823.20

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 9 $5,370.39

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 58 $224.46

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 24 $766.08

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 8 $172.08

Composter, drum, 28 CY 1628 28 CY drum composter unit. Total capacity range is 20-29 CY. Includes 

equipment, operation controls, and shipping. Labor not included.

Each $71,818.50 1 $71,818.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #6 - Static pile, Earthen pad

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing an impervious earthen pad to compost large animal mortalities, typically dairy cow mortality, in a static windrow or single pile. 

Additional carbon based bulking material is added to facilitate aeration and provide a proper C:N ratio. Piles turned at least once to go into another heat cycle prior to 

land application. Access is infrequent. This option may not be desirable for sites with limited area, karst topography, and not isolated from of public view. The purpose of 

the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), 

Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (378 ), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620)). Vegetative Treatment Area (635), 

Composting (317), Roofs and Covers (367), Heavy Use Area Protection (561) 

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Construct a 50' x 150' compacted earth surface. Site can handle mortality for a 100 cow dairy with 

associated heifers and calves. On site soils can be recompacted to meet required imperviousness. Include sufficient area for processing equipment access. Single piles or 

windrows to minimize runoff. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area or vegetated treatment 

area as per regulations. Site preparation includes removal of top 1' and recompacting. 

Feature Measure: Pad Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 7,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,307.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 420 $1,625.40

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 420 $1,138.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #8 - Static pile, Concrete Pad

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a concrete pad over permeable soils, karst topography, frequently accessed sites or sites with regulatory requirements. Typically 

associated with large dairy (1,000 cows plus heifers ) or beef animal mortality with an average daily mortality of 175 lbs/day. Area sized to compost animal mortality as a 

static pile or windrow with equipment around materials. Sufficient carbon based bulking material added to allow natural aeration and a proper C:N ratio. Piles typically 

turned at least once to go into another heat cycle prior to final disposal, typically land application. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any 

runoff to spread out into a grassed area or vegetated treatment area as per regulations. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or 

Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area 

Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Construct a 60'x95' concrete surface to process mortality. Concrete 5' thick with light reinforcement. 

Typical layout is 18' wide piles with 8' wide access area is around each pile or windrow. Site preparation includes topsoil removal, minimal regrading and compaction, 

installing gravel or sand subbase and then concrete. 

Feature Measure: Pad Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $51,479.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 90 $47,469.60

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 220 $534.60

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 110 $425.70

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 70 $1,505.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #9 - Static pile, Concrete Pad with hydrant

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a concrete pad over permeable soils, karst topography, frequently accessed sites or sites with regulatory requirements. Typically 

associated with large dairy (1,000 cows plus heifers ) or beef animal mortality with an average daily mortality of 175 lbs/day. Area sized to compost animal mortality as a 

static pile or windrow with equipment around materials. Sufficient carbon based bulking material added to allow natural aeration and a proper C:N ratio. Water is added 

to maintain moisture content. Piles typically turned at least once to go into another heat cycle prior to final disposal, typically land application. Site to be located out of 

drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area or vegetated treatment area as per regulations. 

Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil 

Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587), Diversion (362), Subsurface 

Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Construct a 60'x95' concrete surface to process mortality. Concrete 5' thick with light reinforcement. A 

hydrant is installed at the site to allow for moisture content control. Typical layout is 18' wide piles with 8' wide access area is around each pile or windrow. Site 

preparation includes topsoil removal, minimal regrading and compaction, installing gravel or sand subbase and then concrete. 

Feature Measure: Pad Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $52,712.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 90 $47,469.60

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 220 $534.60

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 110 $425.70

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 60 in. 1459 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 60 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching, laying 3 to 6 inch CPP drain line with envelope, and 

backfilling.

Feet $1.86 200 $372.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 70 $1,505.70

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 104 $246.48

Freeze Proof Hydrant, > 3 ft. Bury 2393 Freeze Proof Hydrant, more than 3 foot bury. Materials only. Each $232.96 1 $232.96

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #10 - Static pile, Wood Bin(s)

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a group of small bins along one side and a long narrow bin on the backside of a concrete pad to compost poultry or small swine mortality 

in static pile(s) that have sufficient bulking material to allow natural aeration. Piles are turned to go through a second heat cycle prior to final land application. The roofed 

portion of the facility is addressed with Roofs and Covers (367). Size of facility based on daily mortality and sizing procedures accepted in particular state. Organic sites 

will require more frequent replacement of lumber. Potential Associated Practices: Roofs and Covers (367), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Diversion (362), Subsurface 

Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local 

laws, rules, regulation. Install facility on a 18' x 40' concrete pad with 4 bins ( 5' H x 10' W x 6' Length) along the front side and one 8'w by 40' long secondary bin. Bin wall 

consists of a 1' concrete curb and 4' of treated lumber. Roofed portion is addressed under Roofs and Covers (367). Site preparation includes topsoil removal, installing 4' 

of gravel, setting posts , installing concrete slab, and installing wooden walls and doors. Piles turned to go through a second heat cycle prior to final land 

application. 

Feature Measure: Total Bin Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 720.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,260.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $26.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 4 $926.16

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 14 $7,384.16

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 3 $1,790.13

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 47 $114.21

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 7 $401.94

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 7 $69.86

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 7 $217.98

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 11 $236.61

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 880 $1,548.80

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 448 $1,554.56

Mobilization
Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 5 $919.00

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #12 - Static pile, Concrete Bin(s)

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a two or more of concrete bins, open on one end on a concrete pad to compost larger quantities of poultry or mature swine mortality in 

static pile(s) that have sufficient bulking material to allow natural aeration. Piles are turned to go through a second heat cycle prior to final land application. The roofed 

portion of the facility is addressed in Cover and Roofs (367). Size of facility based on daily mortality and sizing procedures accepted in particular state. Scenarios are 

needed to meet permit differences between states and sizes of operations (some states in the region do not approve wood walls). Potential 

Associated Practices: Roofs and Cover ( 367 ), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for 

Water Control (587), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local 

laws, rules, regulation. Install a 20' deep by 48' long pad with four bins with 8' high walls and one end open. Roofed portion is addressed under Roofs and Covers (367). 

Site preparation includes topsoil removal, installing 4' of gravel, installing concrete slab, and installing 8' high concrete walls. Piles are turned by moving to adjacent bin to 

go through a second heat cycle prior to final land application. 

Feature Measure: Total Bin Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $34,721.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 28 $14,768.32

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 30 $17,901.30

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 85 $206.55

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 14 $301.14

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #13 - Static pile, Concrete Bin(s) with hydrant

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a two or more of concrete bins, open on one end on a concrete pad to compost larger quantities of poultry or mature swine mortality in 

static pile(s) that have sufficient bulking material to allow natural aeration. Piles are turned to go through a second heat cycle prior to final land application. Water is 

added to maintain moisture content. The roofed portion of the facility is addressed in Cover and Roofs (367). Size of facility based on daily mortality and sizing procedures 

accepted in particular state. Scenarios are needed to meet permit differences between states and sizes of operations (some states in the region do not approve wood 

walls). Potential Associated Practices: Roofs and Cover ( 367 ), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient 

Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet 

(620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local 

laws, rules, regulation. Install a 20' deep by 48' long pad with four bins with 8' high walls and one end open. Roofed portion is addressed under Roofs and Covers (367). 

Site preparation includes topsoil removal, installing 4' of gravel, installing concrete slab, and installing 8' high concrete walls. A hydrant is installed to aid in maintaining 

moisture content. Piles are turned by moving to adjacent bin to go through a second heat cycle prior to final land application. 

Feature Measure: Total Bin Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $35,954.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 28 $14,768.32

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 30 $17,901.30

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 85 $206.55

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 60 in. 1459 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 60 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching, laying 3 to 6 inch CPP drain line with envelope, and 

backfilling.

Feet $1.86 200 $372.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 14 $301.14

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 104 $246.48

Freeze Proof Hydrant, > 3 ft. Bury 2393 Freeze Proof Hydrant, more than 3 foot bury. Materials only. Each $232.96 1 $232.96

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #24 - Extra Large Animal - Daily Death Loss

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a concrete pad for static pile composting of normal mortality from operations with extra large animals, typically over 300 lb. (Dairy, Beef, 

etc.). Area is sized to accommodate compost piles or windrows, with area provided for access by equipment to turn piles as needed. Sufficient carbon based bulking 

material is added to allow natural aeration and a proper C:N ratio. Piles are typically turned at least once to enter another heat cycle prior to final utilization, typically land 

application. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area or vegetated treatment area as per 

regulations. Any roofed portion of the facility will be addressed with Roofs and Covers (367). Any approach areas will be addressed with Heavy Use Area Protection 

(561). Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Nutrient Management 

(590), Access Road (560), Diversion (362), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Typical system consists of an 8,000 SF (45 SF per lb. of Daily Death Loss) concrete surface to compost an 

average mortality of 175 lb/day. Typical windrows are 18' wide with 8' wide access area around each windrow. Concrete is 6' thick with reinforcement. Site preparation 

includes topsoil removal, minimal regrading and compaction, installing gravel or sand subbase and concrete.

Feature Measure: Daily Death Loss (DDL)

Scenario Unit: Pounds per Day

Scenario Typical Size: 175.00

Scenario Total Cost: $82,400.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $470.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 148 $78,061.12

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 148 $223.48

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 148 $3,183.48

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #25 - Small Animal - Daily Death Loss

Scenario Description:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers 

normal and catastrophic mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local laws, rules, 

regulation. The typical mortality facility is based on a concrete wall static bin composting facility with the primary and secondary bins, of equal volume. A typical broiler 

operation produces a total of 240,000 (6 turns of 40,000) chickens per year. Average bird weight is 4 pounds with an average mortality rate of 5%. The average daily 

mortality is 130 lb/day. Total compost facility volume is 6,400 CF. A total of 12 bins (5 primary + 5 secondary + 2 management/bulk storage) at 10' wide x 12' deep x 6' 

high. Bin walls and floors will be reinforced concrete. Cost includes: site preparation, installation of 6' of gravel, installing concrete slab (6') and walls (6'). Piles are 

turned to go through a second heat cycle in the secondary bins prior to final land application.

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is addressed in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers 

normal and catastrophic mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local laws, rules, 

regulation. The typical mortality facility is based on a concrete wall static bin composting facility with the primary and secondary bins, of equal volume. A typical broiler 

operation produces a total of 240,000 (6 turns of 40,000) chickens per year. Average bird weight is 4 pounds with an average mortality rate of 5%. The average daily 

mortality is 130 lb/day. Total compost facility volume is 6,400 CF. A total of 12 bins (5 primary + 5 secondary + 2 management/bulk storage) at 10' wide x 12' deep x 6' 

high. Bin walls and floors will be reinforced concrete. Cost includes: site preparation, installation of 6' of gravel, installing concrete slab (6') and walls (6' thick). Piles are 

turned to go through a second heat cycle in the secondary bins prior to final land application.

Feature Measure: Daily Death Loss (DDL)

Scenario Unit: Pounds per Day

Scenario Typical Size: 130.00

Scenario Total Cost: $34,157.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $262.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 27 $14,240.88

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 31 $18,498.01

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 27 $65.61

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 27 $580.77

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #26 - Medium to Large Animal - Daily Death Loss

Scenario Description:

This scenario will address animal mortalities for medium animal types, typically from 10 to 50 pounds average weight (i.e. turkeys and nursery pigs) and large animal types 

(typically from 50 to 300 average weight (i.e. grower/finishing pigs, sheep, and goats). It was developed for various types of animal mortality facilities as listed below 

(which is not an exhaustive list): - Static Bin:Consisting of a group of small bins (concrete or wood walls) on a concrete pad to compost mortality in static pile(s) that have 

sufficient bulking material to allow natural aeration. Piles are turned to go through a second heat cycle prior to final land application. - Invessel Rotary Drum. A 

commercially manufactured horizontal rotary drum to compost animal mortalities mixed with a carbon material (i.e. sawdust or wood chips). A secondary composting 

storage area is required to finish materials. - Invessel Grinding Batch. A commercially manufactured grinding batch composter with a minimum capacity of 1,000 lbs per 

batch. A secondary composting storage area is required to finish materials. - Forced Air Composting Bins: Consisting of a group of small bins with an aeration and leachate 

collection system. (This scenario does not address incinerators.) The least cost scenario is based on a static bin system with concrete walls. The roofed portion of the 

facility is addressed with Roofs and Covers (367). Approach apron is addressed with Heavy Use Area Protection (561). Size of facility is based on daily mortality and sizing 

procedures accepted in particular state. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, 

organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Organic sites will require 

more frequent replacement of lumber (if used). Potential Associated Practices: Roofs and Cover ( 367 ), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Diversion (362), Subsurface 

Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Normal animal mortality is being addressed in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into 

surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or 

spreading. An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events, but only normal mortality is addressed with this scenario. Selected method for carcass 

treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulation. The typical normal mortality facility is based on a concrete wall static 

bin composting facility with the primary and secondary bins of equal volume. A typical livestock operation consists of a 6,400 finishing pigs with 2.5 litters per year. 

Average animal weight is 160 pounds with an average mortality rate of 4%. The average normal daily mortality is 280 lb/day which requires a minimum of 18,000 CF of 

total (primary + secondary) composting volume. Bin volumes will have adequate capacity for 30 days of normal mortality. The minimum volume includes additional bins 

for management and storage of bulking materials. The facility will be installed on a 120' X 28' concrete pad with 10 bins (4 primary, 4 secondary, and 2 

management/storage bins) for a total bin capacity of 18,000 CF. Bin dimensions are 6' Height x 12' Width x 28' Deep. Bin walls are concrete, 6' thick and 6' high. Costs 

include topsoil removal, installing 6' of gravel, installing concrete slab (6'), and concrete walls. Piles are turned to go through a second heat cycle in the secondary bins 

prior to final land application.

Feature Measure: Daily Death Loss

Scenario Unit: Pounds per Day

Scenario Typical Size: 280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $62,544.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $223.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 60 $31,646.40

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 48 $28,642.08

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 62 $150.66

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 62 $1,333.62

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 316 - Animal Mortality Facility

Scenario: #86 - Poultry mortality thermal dehydration - Small

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a manufactured mortality thermal dehydration unit designed to handle up to 1,300 lbs of average daily mortality for the species and size 

of the operation. System shall use simultaneous mixing and heating to 194 degrees Fahrenheit and will result in approximately 60% mortality volume reduction over a 12-

hour cycle time. After determining average daily mortality in lbs, select the smallest unit that meets capacity. Payment made based on the size of the unit obtained from 

manufacturers' product literature. This option is not typically least-cost. In most states a roofed static compost pile with concrete floor and bins would be considered least 

cost. Therefore consider reducing payment rate as per State Conservationist discretion. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water 

quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will 

also be addressed, however, in non-attainment areas, certain states may require a higher level of processing such as gasification or other approved methods. Potential 

Associated Practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Access Road (560), Waste Storage Facility (313), Nutrient Management 

(590), Roofs and Covers (367), Critical Area Planting (342).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for both normal and catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete incineration, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An 

overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. Selected method for carcass treatment and disposal meet or are permitted by federal, state, and local laws, 

rules, regulation. Typical thermal dehydrator installed to handle up to 1300 lbs per day average mortality for a poultry operation. Included is a 16'x16' concrete slab to set 

the thermal dehydrator on. Thermally dehydrated materials to be stored in suitable containers until land disposal as per the nutrient management plan or landfilled.

Feature Measure: Number of units

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $71,656.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $71,656.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 5 $2,637.20

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 10 $24.30

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 2 $263.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 5 $107.55

Thermal Dehydrator, Small 2806 Poultry mortality thermal dehydrator with a capacity less than or equal 

to 1,300 pounds per day. Includes equipment, shipping, and 

installation.

Each $66,970.00 1 $66,970.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 317 - Composting Facility

Scenario: #1 - Composter, structure facility with concrete floor and walls

Scenario Description:

The composting facility, with concrete floor and walls between bins only, is installed to address water quality concerns and disease vectors resulting from improper waste 

disposal by providing a dedicated facility for storage and treatment, and by creating a compost product that can be used in multiple ways including land application for 

enrichment of crop ground. This scenario is applicable when geological, soil, or climate conditions, or space limitations for structure footprint, or other site limitations 

make this scenario more suitable than a structure with wood bin walls on a concrete floor. All animal mortality composting shall be done using Practice Standard 316 - 

Animal Mortality 

Facility. 

 Potential Associated 

Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for water control (587), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), 

Subsurface Drain (606), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste 

Transfer (634), Underground Outlet (620) and Vegetative Treatment Area (635).

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

Manure, litter and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored properly, at an environmentally suitable location, until 

such time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. The typical composter is designed to 

handle organic material from a livestock operation. The typical composter is 42' x 14' with 5' high concrete walls. Strip top 1' of soil and roll compact same back into subfloor. The bins are constructed on a 7' concrete slab used to store and stabilize manure, litter and other agricultural by-products from a four house complex on any farm. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 588.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,002.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 12.6 $6,645.74

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 8.6 $5,131.71

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 32.7 $126.55

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 10.9 $234.46

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 317 - Composting Facility

Scenario: #2 - Composter, structure facility with concrete floor and wood walls

Scenario Description:

The composting facility, with concrete floor and treated lumber walls and between bins, is installed to address water quality concerns and disease vectors resulting from 

improper waste disposal by providing a dedicated facility for storage and treatment, and by creating a compost product that can be used in multiple ways including land 

application for enrichment of crop ground. This scenario is applicable when geological, soil, or climate conditions, available space for structure footprint, or other site 

limitations make this scenario more suitable than a structure with concrete bin walls on a concrete floor. All animal mortality composting shall be done using Practice 

Standard 316 - Animal Mortality 

Facility. 

 Potential Associated 

Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for water control (587), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), 

Subsurface Drain (606), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste 

Transfer (634), Underground Outlet (620) and Vegetative Treatment Area (635).

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored properly, at an environmentally suitable location, until such 

time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. The typical composter is designed to handle 

organic material from a livestock operation. The typical facility is 24' x 40' with 4' high bins, 6-primary bins, and 4' constructed lumber sidewalls. Strip top 1' of soil and roll 

compact same back into sub-floor. The entire structure is constructed on a 7' concrete slab used to store and stabilize organic material. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,852.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 20.7 $10,918.01

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 35.6 $137.77

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 5.75 $330.17

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5.75 $57.39

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 160 $3,820.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5.75 $179.06

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 17.8 $382.88

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 928 $1,633.28

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 552 $1,915.44

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 317 - Composting Facility

Scenario: #3 - Composter, open lot, earth floor

Scenario Description:

The composting facility is installed to address water quality concerns and disease vectors resulting from improper waste disposal by providing a dedicated facility for 

storage and treatment, and by creating a compost product that can be used in multiple ways including land application for enrichment of crop ground. This scenario is 

applicable when geological, soil, and climate conditions are appropriate for earth floors and are allowed by state and local regulations. All animal mortality composting 

shall be done using Practice Standard 316 - Animal Mortality 

Facility. 

 

Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for water control (587), Diversion (362), 

Pipeline (516), Subsurface Drain (606), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling 

(633), Waste Transfer (634), Underground Outlet (620) and Vegetative Treatment Area (635).

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwaters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled, by the collection at the source, and stored temporarily, at an environmentally suitable location, until such 

time that they are disposed of or utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. This scenario consists of removing 0.5' of surface 

material and compacting back into place 1' of soil to create a compacted, impervious earthen floor to act as a working area to store organic material in a static pile or 

windrow that has sufficient carbon based bulking material to allow natural aeration. Piles typically turned at least once to go into another heat cycle prior to final disposal, 

typically land application. Typical pad 50' x 200' on an improved compacted earthen surface. Include sufficient area for processing equipment access. Single piles or 

windrows to minimize runoff. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area or vegetated treatment 

area as per regulations. Site preparation includes topsoil removal, compaction of subsoil, and reinstalling topsoil, compacted. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 10,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,566.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 370 $1,431.90

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 185 $616.05

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 185 $654.90

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 317 - Composting Facility

Scenario: #31 - Small Farm Pad + Bins

Scenario Description:

The typical facility size is 6 feet by 9 feet and is comprised of a two-bin system, NOT TO EXCEED 75 sq-ft. The composting facility is installed on a small, urban or organic 

farm to address water quality concerns, pest/rodent concerns, and disease vectors resulting from improper vegetative waste disposal by providing a dedicated facility for 

storage and treatment, and by creating a compost product that can be used in multiple ways including land application for enrichment of crop ground. Screening is 

provided to limit access by vermin. Cost may be higher per unit than traditional compost facilities due to construction access 

limitations. 

 

Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil (520), Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner (521), Pond Sealing or 

Lining, Concrete (522), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Structure for Water Control (587), Diversion (362), 

Livestock Pipeline (516), Subsurface Drain (606), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste 

Recycling (633), Waste Transfer (634), Underground Outlet (620) and Vegetative Treatment Area (635), Stormwater Runoff Control (570).

Before Situation:

Manure and other vegetative waste are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or other 

location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwaters.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being controlled by collection at the source and properly stored at an environmentally suitable location, until such time 

that they are utilized in a proper manner, typically in accordance with a nutrient management plan. This is incorporated as part of the overall waste management system 

meeting the National Engineering Handbook (NEH), Part 651, Agricultural Waste Management Field Handbook (AWMFH) that has been developed to also account for end 

use of the product from the composting facility. This scenario consists of installing a composting structure on a concrete pad. Concrete pad is 6'x9' on a compacted 

gravel surface. Include sufficient area for accessing compost structure. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a 

grassed area or vegetated treatment area as per regulations. Site preparation includes topsoil removal, compaction of subsoil, and installing a geotextile plus compacted 

gravel, concrete pad, and composting structure.

Feature Measure: Square Foot Floor Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 54.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,781.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $70.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 6 $6.54

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 2 $12.06

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 30 $957.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 15 $756.00

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 2 $43.02

Concrete mix, bag 1226 Pre-mixed dry concrete mix in 60 pound bag. Materials only. Each $5.20 42 $218.40

Lumber, planks, posts and 1612

timbers, untreated, rot resistant

Untreated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches, milled from rot resistant species such as cedar. Includes lumber 

and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $4.84 264 $1,277.76
Practice: 317 - Composting Facility

Scenario: #63 - In-vessel Composter 8 CY to 16 CY

Scenario Description:

Installation of an in-vessel composter (rotary drum, forced air, or containerized with mechanical turning) to facilitate the decomposition of manure and/or other organic 

material into a final product sufficiently stable for storage, on farm use and application to land as a soil amendment. The raw inputs are primarily obtained for agricultural 

production or processing. The compost can be reused in the operation, utilized for crop production, soil improvement and/or marketed to the public.

Before Situation:

Raw materials are stockpiled on-site and hauled to a landfill or directly to a field without treatment. Odors and vectors are routinely an issue following rain events.

After Situation:

An in-vessel composter with a drum capacity of 8-16 CY is installed to facilitate the composting of the organic materials as described. Potential for runoff, vectors, and 

odors are significantly reduced. The compost material is more stable and can be reused as described in the standard. Typical sized to 12 CY.

Feature Measure: In-vessel Capacity

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 324.00

Scenario Total Cost: $63,009.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $194.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 5.5 $2,900.92

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

Materials

Composter, drum, 12 CY 1627 12 CY drum composter unit. Total capacity range is 10-19 CY. Includes 

equipment, operation controls, and shipping. Labor not included.

Each $59,789.50 1 $59,789.50
Practice: 317 - Composting Facility

Scenario: #64 - In-vessel Composter 1 CY to 8 CY

Scenario Description:

Installation of an in-vessel composter (rotary drum, forced air, or containerized with mechanical turning) to facilitate the decomposition of manure and/or other organic 

material into a final product sufficiently stable for storage, on farm use and application to land as a soil amendment. The raw inputs are primarily obtained for agricultural 

production or processing. The compost can be reused in the operation, utilized for crop production, soil improvement and/or marketed to the public. Typical size is for 

an in-vessel composter with a drum capacity of 4 CY with an approximate width of 4ft and length of 10 ft. The drum capacity is typically 85% of the nominal dimensions of 

the drum. This includes a concrete foundation for the composter of 6ft x 20ft to facilitate an area to collect finished compost. A secondary storage facility may require 

additional bin storage, which is not included. This scenario does not apply to routine disposal of livestock or poultry carcasses. Potential associated practices: Roofs and 

Covers (367), Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590)

Before Situation:

Raw materials are stockpiled on-site and hauled to a landfill or directly to a field without treatment. Odors and vectors are routinely an issue following rain events.

After Situation:

An in-vessel composter with a drum capacity of 4 CY is installed to facilitate the composting of the organic materials as described. Potential for runoff, vectors, and odors 

are significantly reduced. The compost material is more stable and can be reused as described in the standard.

Feature Measure: Drum Capacity

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 108.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,004.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $194.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2.5 $1,318.60

Composter, drum, 4 CY 2036 4 CY drum composter unit. Includes equipment and operation controls 

and shipping. Labor not included.

Each $19,366.60 1 $19,366.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20
Practice: 319 - On-Farm Secondary Containment Facility

Scenario: #1 - Double Wall Tank

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the replacement of an existing single wall fuel storage tank with a new double wall tank. The purpose of the practice is to address 

resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to the excessive release of organics into ground and surface waters or excessive sediment and turbidity in 

surface waters. Associated practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561).

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation has an existing single wall fuel/oil storage tank(s) without any spill prevention protection. The producer has developed an SPCC plan in 

accordance with EPA requirements, which requires an above ground secondary containment facility for on-farm oil products.

After Situation:

This scenario is based on the replacement of an existing single wall tank(s) with a new double wall tank(s). Installation of 'used' double wall tank(s) will not be allowed. A 

4000 gallon horizontal or vertical antiroll tank (U/L 142-23 Secondary Containment Vessel) double walled which meets EPA regulations will be installed. Payment Schedule 

is based on the cost difference between a new single wall tank and new double wall tank of the same size. The double wall tank will provide an environmentally safe 

facility for handling and storage of oil products stored on the farm. Any accidental spills will be contained.

Feature Measure: Tank volume

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,319.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Crane, truck mounted, hydraulic, 1734

12 ton

12 ton capacity truck mounted hydraulic crane. Equipment cost only. Hours $287.20 1 $287.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 1 $36.60

Materials

Tank, storage tank, upgrade to a 2260

double wall from a single wall, 

horizontal, steel, above ground

Replace a single wall with a double wall horizontal steel storage tank. 

Includes cradles, coating, fittings, labor, equipment. Excludes 

foundations, pumps or piping.

Gallons $3.04 4000 $12,160.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 319 - On-Farm Secondary Containment Facility

Scenario: #2 - Earthen Containment

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the construction of an earthen containment wall with a flexible membrane liner around an existing storage tank. The containment will not 

have a roof. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to the excessive release of organics into ground and 

surface waters or excessive sediment and turbidity in surface waters. Associated practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561).

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation has a single walled fuel/oil storage tank(s) without any spill prevention protection. The producer has developed an SPCC plan in accordance 

with EPA requirements, which requires an above ground secondary containment facility for on-farm oil products.

After Situation:

This scenario is based on containment for a 10,000 gallon tank. The containment will be lined with a flexible membrane liner. The containment volume is designed for 

125% of the tank volume (10,000 gallons X 125% = 12,500 gallons). The bottom dimensions of the containment are 40 ft x 24 ft. The wall is 2.5 feet high with a 2 ft top 

width and 2:1 sideslopes. The total volume of earthfill = 114 CY. The flexible liner size = 1,872 SF. Tanks will be moved or raised to install base materials. Hauled in 

earthfill will be used to construct the dike. The flexible liner will be installed in conformance with the design and specifications. The completed structure will provide an 

environmentally safe facility for handling and storage of oil products stored on the farm. Any accidental spills will be contained.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yard of compacted earthen w

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 114.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,448.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $65.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 126 $487.62

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 114 $379.62

Crane, truck mounted, hydraulic, 1734

12 ton

12 ton capacity truck mounted hydraulic crane. Equipment cost only. Hours $287.20 2 $574.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 18 $387.18

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 208 $405.60

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 34.5 $81.77

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 208 $1,551.68

Fuel Containment Facility, Gate 1735

valve 2 inch diameter

Metal 2 inch diameter gate valve. Materials only. Each $752.00 1 $752.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 319 - On-Farm Secondary Containment Facility

Scenario: #3 - Corrugated Metal Wall Containment

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the installation of a corrugated metal ring containment with a flexible membrane liner around an existing storage tank. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to the excessive release of organics into ground and surface waters or excessive 

sediment and turbidity in surface waters. Associated practices: Heavy Use Area Protection (561)

Before Situation:

The agricultural operation has a single walled fuel/oil storage tank(s) without any spill prevention protection. The producer has developed an SPCC plan in accordance 

with EPA requirements, which requires an above ground secondary containment facility for on-farm oil products.

After Situation:

This scenario is based on containment for a 10,000 gallon tank. The containment will be lined with a flexible membrane liner. The containment volume is designed for 

125% of the tank volume (10,000 gallons X 125% = 12,500 gallons). The bottom dimensions of the containment are 26 ft x 24 ft. The corrugated panel wall is 2.75 feet 

high. The total area of wall = 275 SF. The flexible liner size = 930 SF. Tanks will be moved or raised to install base materials. The corrugated wall and flexible liner will be 

installed in conformance with the design and specifications. The completed structure will provide an environmentally safe facility for handling and storage of oil products 

stored on the farm. Any accidental spills will be contained.

Feature Measure: Square Ft of Corrugated Metal Wall

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 275.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,083.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $43.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1.4 $324.16

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 61 $236.07

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 24 $3,162.00

Crane, truck mounted, hydraulic, 1734

12 ton

12 ton capacity truck mounted hydraulic crane. Equipment cost only. Hours $287.20 2 $574.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 12 $258.12

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 103 $200.85

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 27.6 $65.41

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 103 $768.38

Deactivated. Fuel Containment 1732

Facility, corrugated metal panel 

wall with membrane liner, 

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a secondary fuel containment facility including 

metal panels, support posts and flexible liner. Materials only.

Square Feet $0.00 275 $0.00

Fuel Containment Facility, Gate 1735

valve 2 inch diameter

Metal 2 inch diameter gate valve. Materials only. Each $752.00 1 $752.00
Deactivated. Fuel Containment 2061

Facility, corrugated metal panel 

wall with membrane liner, fixed 

cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a secondary fuel containment facility including 

metal panels, support posts and flexible liner. This portion is the base 

cost for the system. Materials only.

Each $0.00 1 $0.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 319 - On-Farm Secondary Containment Facility

Scenario: #4 - Concrete Containment Wall

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the installation of a reinforced concrete wall containment with a concrete slab around an existing storage tank. The purpose of the practice 

is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to the excessive release of organics into ground and surface waters or excessive sediment and 

turbidity in surface waters. Due to topography, limited site space and/or geological conditions a fabricated structure is needed. Structure will provide an environmentally 

safe facility for handling and storage of these products. Associated practices may include: Heavy Use Area Protection (561).

Before Situation:

Existing agricultural operation that has single walled fuel/oil storage tank(s) not protected. The producer has developed an SPCC plan in accordance with EPA 

requirements, that requires an above ground secondary containment facility for on-farm oil products, in order to control the excessive release of organics into ground and 

surface waters, or to control the excessive sediment and turbidity in surface water. 

After Situation:

This scenario is based on containment for a 4,700 gallon tank. The containment volume is designed for 125% of the tank volume (4,700 gallons X 125% = 5,875 gallons). 

Structure will provide an environmentally safe facility for handling and storage of these products. Typical containment dimensions are 196 sqft bottom x 6' thick slab with 

6' thick x 4' tall formed sidewalls. Tanks will be moved or raised to install base materials. The fabricated containment structure will be installed in conformance with the 

design and specifications. The on-farm oil products stored on the farm have secondary containment of accidental release that controls the excessive release of organics, 

suspended sediments, and turbidity. Structure will provide an environmentally safe facility for handling and storage of these products. 

Feature Measure: Volume of concrete in the wall

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 4.30

Scenario Total Cost: $8,579.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,995.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 4.2 $2,215.25

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 4.3 $2,565.85

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 1 $102.14

Crane, truck mounted, hydraulic, 1734

12 ton

12 ton capacity truck mounted hydraulic crane. Equipment cost only. Hours $287.20 2 $574.40

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 4.2 $90.34

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 20.7 $49.06

Fuel Containment Facility, Gate 1735

valve 2 inch diameter

Metal 2 inch diameter gate valve. Materials only. Each $752.00 1 $752.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 319 - On-Farm Secondary Containment Facility

Scenario: #6 - Plastic Containment Tub 

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the installation of a PVC containment tub around an existing storage tank. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns 

related to water quality degradation due to the excessive release of organics into ground and surface waters or excessive sediment and turbidity in surface waters. Due to 

topography, limited site space and/or geological conditions a fabricated structure is needed. Structure will provide an environmentally safe facility for handling and 

storage of these products. Associated practices may include: Heavy Use Area Protection (561).

Before Situation:

Existing agricultural operation that has single walled fuel/oil storage tank(s) not protected. The producer has developed an SPCC plan in accordance with EPA 

requirements, that requires an above ground secondary containment facility for on-farm oil products, in order to control the excessive release of organics into ground and 

surface waters, or to control the excessive sediment and turbidity in surface water. 

After Situation:

This scenario is based on the installation of a PVC containment tub around an existing fuel tank. A containment tub which meets EPA regulations will be installed and 

sized to hold 110% of the fuel stored in the fuel tank. Payment rate is based on the area of the containment tub. The containment tub will provide an environmentally 

safe facility for handling and storage of oil products stored on the farm. Any accidental spills will be contained.

Feature Measure: Area of Tub bottom

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 36.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,225.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $61.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Crane, truck mounted, hydraulic, 1734

12 ton

12 ton capacity truck mounted hydraulic crane. Equipment cost only. Hours $287.20 1 $287.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 1 $36.60

Materials

PVC Containment Basin, 6' x 6' 1611 Poly containment basin typically 8 to12 inches deep with area 

dimensions in the range of 6' x 6' or larger.

Square Feet $22.84 36 $822.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 100 $100.00

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 320 - Irrigation Canal or Lateral

Scenario: #1 - Irrigation Canal

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction of an Irrigation Canal or Lateral. Typical construction dimensions are 4' wide bottom x 3' deep x 1320' length with a side slope of 2:1. 

Resource concerns: Excess/Insufficient Water - Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water. Associated Conservation Practices: 388-Irrigation Field Ditch; 443-Irrigation System, 

Surface or Subsurface; 533-Pumping Plant; 430-Irrigation Pipeline; 587 - Structure for Water Control; 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Before Situation:

Water supply for an area is inadequate for crop production and irrigation water application is inefficient.

After Situation:

An earthen canal that has adequate capacity to convey sufficient irrigation water to meet the demands of the system and make irrigation practical for the crops being 

grown.

Feature Measure: Volume of earth excavated

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,467.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,871.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 1467 $3,564.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 324 - Deep Tillage

Scenario: #12 - Deep Tillage less than 20 inches

Scenario Description:

Fields (80 acres) with adverse soils conditions that restrict plant growth such as compacted layers caused by tillage operations or restrictive layers such as hardpans 

(duripans) in the root zone. This practice does not apply to normal tillage practices to prepare a seedbed but is meant to fracture the restrictive soil layer.

Before Situation:

In this geographic area, crop plants are observed as having reduced yield, water is not infiltrating into the soil. Soil layers have been compacted by shallow tillage 

operations, or soils have a hardpan (duripan) layer that is restricting root growth. Typical field size is 80 acres with crop rotations consisting of annual row crops or small 

grains with conventional tillage or when the harvesting of row crops (onions, sugar beets, potato, and corn silage) use heavy trucks to assist with the harvest. Compaction 

has been caused when soil moisture is too wet for normal field operations or by excessive shallow tillage or field harvest haul traffic throughout the entire field. Soil 

structure has been reduced, aggregate strength is weak and soil biological activity is low. Soil organic matter is not adequate and the water holding capacity of the soil is 

limited for the desired root zone.

After Situation:

Soil compaction is measured with a penetrometer and visual observation of limiting root growth. Deep tillage operations such as subsoiling, paratilling or ripping are 

performed not as a part of the normal tillage operation for seedbed preparation, but used to relieve compaction at depths less than 20 inches. Soil moisture is less than 30 

percent when deep tillage is used. The fractured zone will be sufficient to permit root penetration below the restrictive soil layer. Penetrometers are used to identify the 

severity (psi) of the compaction and the depth of the restrictive layer. Deep tillage is generally performed in the fall after crop harvest when soil conditions are dry. After 

deep tillage, harvest operations should be avoided when soil moisture is greater than 50% of field capacity. Field harvest haul traffic should be limited to end rows or haul 

roads. Using dual tires or tracks beneath tractors or grain wagons can help spread the weight load.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,195.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Ripper or subsoiler, 16 to 36 inch 1235

depth

Deep ripper or subsoiler, (16-36 inches depth) includes tillage 

implement, power unit and labor.

Acres $23.83 80 $1,906.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68
Practice: 324 - Deep Tillage

Scenario: #13 - Deep Tillage more than 20 inches

Scenario Description:

Fields (80 acres) with adverse soils conditions that restrict plant growth such as compacted layers caused by tillage operations or restrictive layers such as hardpans 

(duripans) in the root zone. This practice does not apply to normal tillage practices to prepare a seedbed but is meant to fracture the restrictive soil layer.

Before Situation:

In this geographic area, crop plants are observed as having reduced yield, water is not infiltrating into the soil. Soil layers have been compacted by shallow tillage 

operations, or soils have a hardpan (duripan) layer that is restricting root growth. Typical field size is 80 acres with crop rotations consisting of annual row crops, orchard 

/vineyards or small grains with conventional tillage or when the harvesting of row crops (onions, sugar beets, potato, and corn silage) use heavy trucks to assist with the 

harvest. Orchards and vineyards may be deep ripped prior to establishment of perennial crop. Compaction has been caused when soil moisture is too wet for normal field 

operations or by excessive shallow tillage or field harvest haul traffic throughout the entire field. Soil structure has been reduced, aggregate strength is weak and soil 

biological activity is low. Soil organic matter is not adequate and the water holding capacity of the soil is limited for the desired root zone.

After Situation:

Soil compaction is measured with a penetrometer and visual observation of limiting root growth. Deep tillage operations such as subsoiling, paratilling or ripping are 

performed not as a part of the normal tillage operation for seedbed preparation, but used to relieve compaction at depths more than 20 inches. Soil moisture is less than 

30 percent when deep tillage is used. The fractured zone will be sufficient to permit root penetration below the restrictive soil layer. Penetrometers are used to identify 

the severity (psi) of the compaction and the depth of the restrictive layer. Deep tillage is generally performed in the fall after crop harvest when soil conditions are dry. 

When possible, harvest operations should be avoided when soil moisture is greater than 50% of field capacity. Field harvest haul traffic should be limited to end rows or 

haul roads. Using dual tires or tracks beneath tractors or grain wagons can help spread the weight load.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,171.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $64.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Ripper or subsoiler, > 36 inch 1236

depth

Deep ripper or subsoiler, (>36 inches depth) includes tillage implement, 

power unit and labor.

Acres $61.03 80 $4,882.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #97 - High Tunnel, Low Snow and Wind Load

Scenario Description:

Use in areas with low expected snow and wind loads. Quonset-style (round) manufactured frame of tubular steel (30 x 72 ft.) covered with 4-year 6 mil plastic. Costs are 

based on purchase of manufactured kit and landowner installation of structure. Structure must be installed to manufacturer's specifications. Associated practices might 

include CPS Roof Runoff Structure (588), Underground Outlet (620), Critical Area Planting (342), Mulching (484).

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Primary resource concern addressed will be plant health and vigor.

After Situation:

High Tunnel structure has been installed and the growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor is improved.

Feature Measure: Area of Tunnel Installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,624.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 71 $1,695.48

Materials

High Tunnel, Quonset Style, Fixed 2789

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a quonset style high tunnel. Includes the 

framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, 

and poly-lock for sides and ends for a quonset style (round top) hoop 

house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,016.62 1 $2,016.62

High Tunnel, Quonset style, 2790

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a quonset style high tunnel. Includes the 

framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, 

and poly-lock for sides and ends for a quonset style (round top) hoop 

house. Materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.20 2160 $6,912.00
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #98 - Contiguous US Snow

Scenario Description:

Used for contiguous US states in areas with high snowfall. A gothic style (peaked) manufactured frame of tubular steel (30 x 70 ft.) with end walls and/or truss supports 

covered with 4-year 6 mil plastic. Costs are based on purchase of manufactured kit and landowner installing the structure. Structure must be installed to manufacturer's 

specifications.

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Additional resource concerns that may need to be addressed include soil erosion, soil condition, water quality, 

water quantity, and plant condition.

After Situation:

A high tunnel structure has been installed and he growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor has been improved.

Feature Measure: Area of Tunnel Installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,738.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 71 $1,695.48

Materials

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, Fixed 2791

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,522.81 1 $2,522.81

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, 2792

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a Gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.96 2160 $8,553.60

High Tunnel, End Walls 2799 Includes frame, polyvinyl covering, and appurtenances. Price is for two 

end walls based on the width of the structure. Manufactured doors not 

included. Includes material and shipping only.

Feet $52.93 30 $1,587.90

High Tunnel, Truss Supports 2800 Rafter or truss support system on Seasonal High Tunnels to add 

strength for wind or snow load. Based on the area of the structure 

(square feet). Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.87 2160 $1,879.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 500 $500.00
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #99 - High Tunnel Gothic with Gutters

Scenario Description:

Gothic-style manufactured frame of tubular steel (30 x 72 ft.) covered with 4-year 6 mil plastic. Add on gutters and downspout system to convey water away from high 

tunnel to prevent flooding, soil erosion or to reuse water. Costs are based on purchase of manufactured kit and landowner installation of structure. Structure must be 

installed to manufacturer's specifications. Associated practices might include Underground Outlet (620), Critical Area Planting (342), Mulching (484).

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Primary resource concern addressed will be plant health and vigor.

After Situation:

High Tunnel structure has been installed and the growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor is improved. Gutters reduce soil 

erosion from runoff, reduce water flooding into tunnel.

Feature Measure: Area of tunnel installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,365.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Materials

Gutter, Downspout, PVC, 5 in. 1388 5 inch PVC guttering. Materials only. Feet $1.28 12 $15.36

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 49 $170.03

Gutter, Galvanized Steel, Medium 1693 Galvanized Steel gutter, 7 to 9 in. width with hangers. Materials only. Feet $14.82 148 $2,193.36

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, Fixed 2791

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,522.81 1 $2,522.81

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, 2792

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a Gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.96 2160 $8,553.60
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #100 - Small Gothic HT with Gutter

Scenario Description:

Use in areas with low expected snow and wind loads on sites less than 1 acre. Gothic-style (arched) manufactured frame of tubular steel (less than or equal to 20 ft x 30 ft.) 

covered with 4-year warrantee, 6 mil UV resistant plastic. Gutter placed on each side to capture and convey runoff away from the tunnel. Costs are based on purchase of 

manufactured kit and landowner installation of structure. Structure must be installed to manufacturer's specifications. Associated practices might include CPS Roof Runoff 

Structure (588), Underground Outlet (620), Critical Area Planting (342), Mulching (484).

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Primary resource concern addressed will be plant health and vigor.

After Situation:

High Tunnel structure has been installed and the growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor is improved. Gutter system reduces 

soil erosion and ponding and or conveys water to a catchment for reuse.

Feature Measure: Area of High Tunnel Installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,267.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 57 $1,361.16

Materials

Gutter, Downspout, PVC, 5 in. 1388 5 inch PVC guttering. Materials only. Feet $1.28 12 $15.36

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 21 $72.87

Gutter, Galvanized Steel, Medium 1693 Galvanized Steel gutter, 7 to 9 in. width with hangers. Materials only. Feet $14.82 62 $918.84

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, Fixed 2791

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,522.81 1 $2,522.81

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, 2792

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a Gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.96 600 $2,376.00
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #116 - Small High Tunnel, Snow and Wind

Scenario Description:

Use in areas with expected snow and wind loads on sites less than 1 acre. Gothic-style (arched) manufactured frame of tubular steel (less than or equal to 20 ft x 30 ft.) 

covered with 4-year warrantee, 6 mil UV resistant plastic. Costs are based on purchase of manufactured kit and landowner installation of structure. Structure must be 

installed to manufacturer's specifications. Associated practices might include CPS Roof Runoff Structure (588), Underground Outlet (620), Critical Area Planting (342), 

Mulching (484).

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Primary resource concern addressed will be plant health and vigor.

After Situation:

High Tunnel structure has been installed and the growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor is improved.

Feature Measure: Area of High Tunnel Installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,840.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 57 $1,361.16

Materials

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, Fixed 2791

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,522.81 1 $2,522.81

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, 2792

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a Gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.96 600 $2,376.00

High Tunnel, End Walls 2799 Includes frame, polyvinyl covering, and appurtenances. Price is for two 

end walls based on the width of the structure. Manufactured doors not 

included. Includes material and shipping only.

Feet $52.93 20 $1,058.60

High Tunnel, Truss Supports 2800 Rafter or truss support system on Seasonal High Tunnels to add 

strength for wind or snow load. Based on the area of the structure 

(square feet). Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.87 600 $522.00
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #117 - Small High Tunnel, Intensive Sun

Scenario Description:

Use in areas with low expected snow and wind loads on sites less than 1 acre. Quonset-style (round) manufactured frame of tubular steel (less than or equal to 20 ft x 30 

ft.) covered with 4-year warrantee, 6 mil UV resistant plastic. Costs are based on purchase of manufactured kit and landowner installation of structure. Structure must be 

installed to manufacturer's specifications. Associated practices might include CPS Roof Runoff Structure (588), Underground Outlet (620), Critical Area Planting (342), 

Mulching (484).

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Primary resource concern addressed will be plant health and vigor.

After Situation:

High Tunnel structure has been installed and the growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor is improved.

Feature Measure: Area of High Tunnel Installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,477.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 57 $1,361.16

Materials

High Tunnel, Quonset Style, Fixed 2789

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a quonset style high tunnel. Includes the 

framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, 

and poly-lock for sides and ends for a quonset style (round top) hoop 

house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,016.62 1 $2,016.62

High Tunnel, Quonset style, 2790

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a quonset style high tunnel. Includes the 

framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, 

and poly-lock for sides and ends for a quonset style (round top) hoop 

house. Materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.20 600 $1,920.00

Shade cloth 2793 Knitted or woven, high tensile, UV resistant shade cloth of a minimum 

of 30% sunlight control. Includes grommets with reinforced edging. 

Materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.30 600 $180.00
Practice: 325 - High Tunnel System

Scenario: #161 - Small High Tunnel, Snow and Wind

Scenario Description:

Use in areas with expected snow and wind loads on sites less than 1 acre. Gothic-style (arched) manufactured frame of tubular steel (less than or equal to 20 ft x 30 ft.) 

covered with 4-year warrantee, 6 mil UV resistant plastic. Costs are based on purchase of manufactured kit and landowner installation of structure. Structure must be 

installed to manufacturer's specifications. Associated practices might include CPS Roof Runoff Structure (588), Underground Outlet (620), Critical Area Planting (342), 

Mulching (484).

Before Situation:

Cropland where extension of the growing season is needed. Primary resource concern addressed will be plant health and vigor.

After Situation:

High Tunnel structure has been installed and the growing season has been extended for 1-4 months on average. Plant health and vigor is improved.

Feature Measure: Area of High Tunnel Installed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,840.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 57 $1,361.16

Materials

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, Fixed 2791

Cost

Fixed cost portion of a gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Materials and shipping only.

Number $2,522.81 1 $2,522.81

High Tunnel, Gothic Style, 2792

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a Gothic style high tunnel. Includes heavy-duty, 

gothic framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, rollup sides, lumber, and polylock for sides and ends for a gothic style 

(peaked top) hoop house. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.96 600 $2,376.00

High Tunnel, End Walls 2799 Includes frame, polyvinyl covering, and appurtenances. Price is for two 

end walls based on the width of the structure. Manufactured doors not 

included. Includes material and shipping only.

Feet $52.93 20 $1,058.60

High Tunnel, Truss Supports 2800 Rafter or truss support system on Seasonal High Tunnels to add 

strength for wind or snow load. Based on the area of the structure 

(square feet). Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.87 600 $522.00
Practice: 326 - Clearing and Snagging

Scenario: #23 - Clearing and Snagging - Light

Scenario Description:

Removal of vegetation, logs, or other material that impedes the proper functioning on up to 200 linear feet of a stream channel or water course to restore flow capacity; 

prevent bank erosion by eddies; reduce the formation of sediment bars; and/or minimize blockages by debris. Addresses resource concerns such as water quantity and soil 

erosion-streambanks.

Before Situation:

Vegetation, logs, or other material provide a flow restriction or divert flowing water against the streambank causing excess erosion. Approximately one-third of the 

channel flow capacity is obstructed. The flow blockage may encourage depostion in the main channel and may alter the established flow channel.

After Situation:

Vegetation, logs, or other material have been removed to allow unrestricted flow in the channel and appurtenant structures. Material that poses no blockage threat is left 

in place to enhance aquatic habitat. Channel bed and banks are in equillibrium with the flow.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,863.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 6 $474.24

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 6 $790.50

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 12 $76.32

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 8 $446.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 326 - Clearing and Snagging

Scenario: #24 - Clearing and Snagging - Medium

Scenario Description:

Removal of vegetation, logs, or other material that impedes the proper functioning on 200 to 400 linear feet of a stream channel or water course to restore flow capacity; 

prevent bank erosion by eddies; reduce the formation of sediment bars; and/or minimize blockages by debris. Addresses resource concerns such as water quantity and soil 

erosion-streambanks.

Before Situation:

Vegetation, logs, or other material provide a flow restriction or divert flowing water against the streambank causing excess erosion. Approximately one-half of the channel 

flow capacity is obstructed. The flow blockage may encourage depostion in the main channel and may alter the established flow channel.

After Situation:

Vegetation, logs, or other material have been removed to allow unrestricted flow in the channel and appurtenant structures. Material that poses no blockage threat is left 

in place to enhance aquatic habitat. Channel bed and banks are in equillibrium with the flow.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,440.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $21.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 10 $1,012.10

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 20 $127.20

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 10 $557.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 32 $996.48

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 326 - Clearing and Snagging

Scenario: #25 - Clearing and Snagging - Heavy

Scenario Description:

Removal of vegetation, logs, or other material that impedes the proper functioning on over 400 linear feet of a stream channel or water course to restore flow capacity; 

prevent bank erosion by eddies; reduce the formation of sediment bars; and/or minimize blockages by debris. Addresses resource concerns such as water quantity and soil 

erosion-streambanks.

Before Situation:

Vegetation, logs, or other material provide a flow restriction or divert flowing water against the streambank causing excess erosion. Approximately two-thirds of the 

channel flow capacity is obstructed. The flow blockage may encourage depostion in the main channel and may alter the established flow channel.

After Situation:

Vegetation, logs, or other material have been removed to allow unrestricted flow in the channel and appurtenant structures. Material that poses no blockage threat is left 

in place to enhance aquatic habitat. Channel bed and banks are in equillibrium with the flow.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,122.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 16 $1,619.36

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 16 $2,108.00

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 30 $190.80

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 16 $892.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #1 - Conservation Cover for Water Quality and Wildlife, Foregone Income - Level 1 (Year 1)

Scenario Description:

Permanent vegetation, including a mix of introduced cool season grasses and legumes, established on cropped wetland area needing permanent vegetative cover that 

improves water quality and provides wetland wildlife habitat. Typical practice size is 2 acres. Practice applicable on cropland.

Before Situation:

Setting is any prairie pothole. The wetlands must be wholly or partially in cropland. These wetlands are currently cropped, and hydrology has or could be diverted from the 

wetland by way of tiling, field or road ditching, diking or any other feature that removes wetland hydrology. These wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland 

fields degrade water quality by nutrients carried through surface inlets. These areas also have the potential to produce a significant amount of moist soil plants which are 

valuable source of forage and cover for many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird species. The current system provides little to no wildlife habitat with habitat limiting 

factors such as quality, quantity and continuity of forage, cover, shelter and space being identified. Drainage could also result in inadequate wildlife water and inadequate 

habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and applied. The permanent grass/legume mix vegetation replacing the previously cropped 

wetland has improved water quality and wetland wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: Area Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $714.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $357.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 4 $58.16

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 2 $54.64

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Foregone Income

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 1 $195.98

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 2 $95.52
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #24 - Caribbean Area Conservation Cover Introduced Species

Scenario Description:

After applying the practice the land is covered with permanent non-native grass vegetation and has reduced soil erosion, reduced water/sediment runoff, improved 

wildlife habitat (including pollinator habitat), improved water quality, and improved soil health.

Before Situation:

The land is eroding above the soil loss tolerance, water quality is impaired due to sediment and nutrients, habitat for wildlife is unsuitable, and there is limited pollinator 

habitat.

After Situation:

The practices is applied per the specification in the 327 Implementation Requirements. Permanent non-native vegetation is established that is suitable to address the 

planned resource concern(s).

Feature Measure: Acres Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,657.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $213.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 50 $727.00

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 50 $1,104.50

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Nitrate 69 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Nitrate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.67 2500 $1,675.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 2500 $1,975.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 2500 $1,700.00

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 50 $2,388.00
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #25 - Caribbean Orchard or Vineyard Alleyways

Scenario Description:

This practice applies on orchards and vineyards needing permanent protective cover in the alleyways between tree and vine rows. The typical size of this practice is 20 

acres. This practice typically involves conversion from a clean-tilled (conventional tilled) intensive cropping system to permanent vegetation (scenario includes non-native 

grass and legume mix). This practice scenario is typically used to reduce soil erosion, reduce soil quality degradation, improve water quality, enhance wildlife and/or 

pollinator habitat, manage plant pests, and reduce air quality impacts.

Before Situation:

Orchard or vineyard with bare soil between vine/tree rows. Bare soil is exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, winter, and early spring. Over the 

winter sediment/nutrient runoff from orchards/vineyards increases.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and has been applied. Orchard or Vineyard area between vine/tree rows are planted with 

permanent introduced grass/legume mix. Area covered has reduced soil erosion, improved soil quality, improved water quality, and enhanced wildlife and/or pollinator 

habitat.

Feature Measure: Acres Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,263.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $213.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 20 $441.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 20 $435.20

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Nitrate 69 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Nitrate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.67 1000 $670.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 1000 $790.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 1000 $680.00

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 20 $955.20
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #26 - Pacific Islands Conservation Cover

Scenario Description:

This practice applies on land to be retired from agricultural production and on other lands needing permanent protective cover. This practice typically involves conversion 

from a clean-tilled (conventional tilled) intensive cropping system to permanent native vegetation species on both organic and non-organic operations. The typical size of 

the practice is 40 acres. This practice scenario is typically used to reduce soil erosion, reduce soil quality degradation, improve water quality, develop wildlife habitat, and 

reduce air quality impacts.

Before Situation:

Crops such as corn, soybeans, vegetables, or cotton are conventionally grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled by cultivation and/or chemical 

application. Soil surface residue amounts average 10% or less. Soil erosion exceed allowable tolerance, sediment may be moving offsite into surface water degrading water 

quality. Soil quality (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be impacted during 

field operations by the creation of particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and has been applied. The land is covered with permanent native grass vegetation and has 

reduced soil erosion, reduced water/sediment runoff, and significant dust emissions are eliminated therefore, air quality is improved. Plants sown for conservation cover 

may provide cover for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to plantings for forage production or to critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Acres Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,734.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $193.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 40 $581.60

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 40 $883.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 40 $870.40

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 40 $5,398.80
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #45 - Introduced with Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

This practice applies on organically managed land needing permanent protective cover. This practice typically involves conversion from an intensive organic cropping 

system to permanent non-native vegetation (scenario includes non-native grass/legume mix). The typical size of the practice is 20 acres. This practice scenario is typically 

used to reduce soil erosion, reduce soil quality degradation, improve water quality, develop wildlife habitat, and reduce air quality impacts. 

Before Situation:

Crops such as vegetables and small fruit crops are organically grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled mainly by cultivation. Soil surface residue 

amounts average 10% or less. Erosion exceeds tolerable rates and sediment may be moving offsite into surface water degrading water quality. Soil quality (soil organic 

matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be impacted during field operations by the creation of 

particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and has been applied. Organically managed land covered with permanent non- native 

grass/legume mix vegetation has reduced soil erosion, reduced water/sediment runoff, and improved air quality due to the elimination of dust emissions. . Plants sown for 

conservation cover may provide cover for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to plantings for forage production or to critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,772.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $475.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 150 $2,181.00

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 50 $384.00

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 50 $1,366.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 25 $8,812.00

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 25 $6,673.75

Materials

Nitrogen, Organic 266 ORGANIC Nitrogen Pound $0.28 2500 $700.00

Phosphorus, Organic 267 ORGANIC Phosphorus Pound $0.09 2000 $180.00

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 50 $2,388.00
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #46 - Native Species with Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

This practice applies on conventional or organically managed land needing permanent protective cover. This practice typically involves conversion from an intensive 

cropping system to permanent native vegetation (scenario includes native grass/legume mix). The typical size of the practice is 50 acres. This practice scenario is typically 

used to reduce soil erosion, reduce soil quality degradation, improve water quality, develop wildlife habitat, and reduce air quality impacts. Applies to conventional or 

organic systems.

Before Situation:

Crops such as vegetables and small fruit crops may be conventionally or organically grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled mainly by 

cultivation. Soil surface residue amounts average 10% or less. Soil erosion exceeds tolerable rates and sediment may be moving offsite into surface water degrading water 

quality. Soil quality (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be impacted during 

field operations by the creation of particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and applied. Managed land covered with permanent native grass/legume mix vegetation has 

reduced soil erosion, reduced water/sediment runoff, and improved air quality due to the elimination of dust emissions. Plants sown for conservation cover may provide 

cover for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to plantings for forage production or to critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $28,235.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $564.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 150 $2,181.00

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 100 $2,732.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 25 $8,812.00

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 25 $6,673.75

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 50 $6,748.50
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #47 - Pollinator Species with Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

Permanent vegetation, including a mix of native grasses, legumes, and forbs (mix may also include non-native species), established on land needing permanent vegetative 

cover that provides habitat for pollinators. Typical practice size is variable depending on site; this scenario uses 1 ac as the typical size. In addition to providing pollinator 

habitat, this practice scenario may also reduce sheet and rill erosion, improve soil quality, improve water quality, and improve air quality. The practice may also provide 

wildlife habitat. Practice applicable on cropland, odd areas, corners, etc. Applies to conventional or organic systems.

Before Situation:

Crops such as vegetables and small fruit crops may be conventionally or organically grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled mainly by 

cultivation. Soil surface residue amounts average 10% or less. Soil erosion exceeds tolerable rates and sediment may be moving offsite into surface water degrading water 

quality. Soil quality (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be impacted during 

field operations by the creation of particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife or pollinator habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and applied. Managed land covered with permanent pollinator habitat including a mix of native 

grasses, legumes, and forbs (mix may also include non-native species). This practice may also reduce soil erosion, reduce water/sediment runoff, and improve air quality 

due to the elimination of dust emissions. Plants sown for pollinator habitat may also provide cover for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to 

critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $899.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $899.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 2 $54.64

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #48 - Introduced Species

Scenario Description:

The land is covered with permanent non-native grass vegetation resulting in reduced soil erosion and water/sediment runoff, and the elimination of dust emissions which 

improves air quality significantly. Plants sown for conservation cover may provide cover for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to plantings for 

forage production or to critical area plantings. Applies to conventional or organic systems.

Before Situation:

Crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton may be conventionally or organically grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled by cultivation and/or 

chemical application. Soil surface residue amounts average 10% or less. Soil erosion exceed allowable tolerance, sediment may be moving offsite into surface water 

degrading water quality. Soil quality (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be 

impacted during field operations by the creation of particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and applied. The land is covered with permanent non-native grass vegetation resulting in reduced 

soil erosion and water/sediment runoff, and the elimination of significant dust emissions which improves air quality. Plants sown for conservation cover may provide cover 

for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to plantings for forage production or to critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,662.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $213.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 150 $2,181.00

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 50 $384.00

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 50 $1,366.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Nitrate 69 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Nitrate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.67 2500 $1,675.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 2000 $1,580.00

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 50 $2,388.00
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #49 - Native Species

Scenario Description:

This practice applies on land to be retired from agricultural production and on other lands needing permanent protective cover. This practice typically involves conversion 

from a clean-tilled (conventional tilled) intensive cropping system to permanent native vegetation (scenario includes native grass). The typical size of the practice is 50 

acres. This practice scenario is typically used to reduce soil erosion, reduce soil quality degradation, improve water quality, develop wildlife habitat, and reduce air quality 

impacts. Applies to conventional or organic systems

Before Situation:

Crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton may be conventionally or organically grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled by cultivation and/or 

chemical application. Soil surface residue amounts average 10% or less. Soil erosion exceeds allowable tolerance, and sediment may be moving offsite into surface water 

degrading water quality. Soil quality (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be 

impacted during field operations by the creation of particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and applied. The land is covered with permanent native grass vegetation which reduces soil 

erosion and water/sediment runoff, and eliminates dust emissions which improves air quality. Plants sown for conservation cover may provide cover for beneficial insects 

and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to plantings for forage production or to critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,749.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $254.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 150 $2,181.00

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 100 $2,732.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 50 $6,748.50
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #50 - Pollinator Species

Scenario Description:

Permanent vegetation, including a mix of native grasses, legumes, and forbs (mix may also include non-native species), established on any land needing permanent 

vegetative cover that provides habitat for pollinators. Typical practice size is variable depending on site; this scenario uses 1 ac as the typical size. In addition to providing 

pollinator habitat, this practice scenario may also reduce sheet, rill, and wind erosion, improve soil quality, improve water quality, and improve air quality. The practice 

may also provide wildlife habitat. Practice applicable on cropland, odd areas, corners, etc. Applies to conventional or organic systems.

Before Situation:

Crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton may be conventionally or organically grown and harvested. Full width tillage is utilized, weeds controlled by cultivation and/or 

chemical application. Soil surface residue amounts average 10% or less. Erosion exceeds tolerable rates and sediment may be moving offsite into surface water degrading 

water quality. Soil quality (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. Air quality may be impacted 

during field operations by the creation of particulates. The system provides little to no wildlife or pollinator habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed for the site and applied. Land is covered with permanent pollinator habitat including a mix of native grasses, 

legumes, forbs (mix may also include non-native species). This practice may also have reduced soil erosion, reduced water/sediment runoff, and improved air quality as a 

result of the elimination of dust emissions. Plants sown for pollinator habitat may also provide cover for beneficial insects and wildlife. This scenario does not apply to 

critical area plantings.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $743.11

Scenario Cost/Unit: $743.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 2 $54.64

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #54 - Monarch Species Mix

Scenario Description:

Establish permanent vegetative cover for pollinator habitat according to state specifications. Typically used for high quality nectar and pollen species. Assumes seed/plugs, 

equipment and labor for seed bed prep/planting, and weed management during establishment. Used for conventional or organic land on small, intensive areas that are 

central to specialty crop production. Not typically used for large-scale plantings. This is applicable to both organic and non-organic conditions.

Before Situation:

Old hayfields that are mowed typically in the fall lack milkweed needed for monarchs. Other crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton are conventionally grown and 

harvested. The system provides little to no wildlife or pollinator habitat.

After Situation:

The 327 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. Land covered with permanent monarch habitat including a mix of milkweed species, 

native grasses, legumes, and forbs. Plants sown for monarch habitat may also provide cover for beneficial insects and wildlife.

Feature Measure: area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $931.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $931.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 2 $54.64

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1.4 $657.73
Practice: 327 - Conservation Cover

Scenario: #102 - Pollinator Mix-Small Footprint

Scenario Description:

Permanent vegetation, including a mix of grasses, legumes and forbs established on any land needing permanent vegetative cover that provides habitat, cover, and food 

for pollinators. Typical size varies depending on the site feasibility for length and width. Urban sites typical size is 2000 square feet (20x100 ft). This scenario included 

mechanical site preparation. This practice scenario may also reduce wind and water erosion, improve soil quality, reduce water quality degradation and reduce air 

emissions of particulate matter or greenhouse gases. Applies to conventional and organic systems. This scenario does not applied to areas needing Critical Area Planting.

Before Situation:

Crop rotation include specialty crops such as vegetable and fruit/berry production that benefit from pollinator activity. Urban agricultural sites do not provide for 

pollinator habitat at this time. Planting operations include mechanical removal of weeds. Land adjacent to the planting beds is not managed for resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 327 implementation requirements have been developed for the site and applied. Land is in permanent vegetative cover reducing erosion and sediment delivery to 

water. Pollinator habitat has successfully established providing habitat and cover for pollinators and beneficial insects.

Feature Measure: Area of conservation Cover Installe

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $284.87

Scenario Cost/Unit: $142.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 0.5 $13.66

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 0.5 $234.91
Practice: 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

Scenario: #64 - Basic Rotation Organic and Non-Organic

Scenario Description:

In this region this practice may be part of a conservation management system on both organic and non-organic operations to: 1) Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) 

Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, 3) Reduce water quality degradation due to excess nutrients, 4) Improve soil moisture efficiency, 5) Reduce 

the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps, 6) Reduce plant pest pressures, 7) Provide feed and forage for domestic livestock, and 8) Provide food 

and cover habitat for wildlife, including pollinator forage, and nesting. This practice payment is provided to the producer for the time needed to plan and implement the 

logistics of changing the rotation to effectively implement a conservation crop rotation on a typical 200 acre cropland farm. No foregone income. Cost represents typical 

situations for conventional and organic producers.

Before Situation:

The rotation consists primarily of low residue producing row crops. Fields range from nearly flat to C and D slopes. Erosion, soil quality, and pest management are the 

primary concerns.

After Situation:

A rotation is established that provides additional high residue and/or perennial crops that may treat one or more of the following purposes: reduce sheet, rill and wind 

erosion, maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, reduce water quality degradation due to excess nutrients, improve soil moisture efficiency, reduce 

the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps, reduce plant pest pressures, provide feed and forage for domestic livestock, or provide food and cover 

habitat for wildlife, including pollinator forage, and nesting.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,512.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 30 $1,512.00
Practice: 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

Scenario: #65 - Irrigated to Dryland Rotation Organic and Non-Organic

Scenario Description:

In this region this practice may be part of a conservation management system to primarily convert from an irrigated cropping system to dryland farming. In addition to 

improving water use efficiency the rotation may to: 1) Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, 3) Reduce water 

quality degradation due to excess nutrients, 4) Improve soil moisture efficiency, 5) Reduce the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps, 6) Reduce 

plant pest pressures, 7) Provide feed and forage for domestic livestock, and 8) Provide food and cover habitat for wildlife, including pollinator forage, and nesting. This 

practice payment is provided to acquire the technical knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement a conservation crop rotation on a typical 200 cropland farm. 

There is foregone income involved with this conversion from irrigated to dryland farming due to lower yields and net return. Cost represents typical situations for 

conventional (non-organic) producers converting from irrigated cropping to dryland farming.

Before Situation:

This rotation consisted of growing row crop grains that received a significant (more than half) of the required water via irrigation. The water demands are impacting the 

area's water availability. Erosion, soil condition, and future water availability are the major concerns.

After Situation:

The dryland rotation, using the same crops or a rotation that grows crops over different periods, will be part of a management system capable of utilizing available rainfall 

and soil moisture more efficiently and controlling wind and water erosion. Corn yields will be expected to be reduced from 150 to 80 bu/acre.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $72,008.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $360.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 200 $70,496.00

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 30 $1,512.00
Practice: 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

Scenario: #66 - Specialty Crops Organic and Non-Organic

Scenario Description:

In this region a rotation of organic or non-organic specialty crops (fruits and vegetable) are produced as part of a conservation management system to treat one or more 

of the following resource concerns: 1) Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, 3) Reduce water quality 

degradation due to excess nutrients, 4) Improve soil moisture efficiency, 5) Reduce the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps, 6) Reduce plant pest 

pressures, 7) Provide feed and forage for domestic livestock, and 8) Provide food and cover habitat for wildlife, including pollinator forage, and nesting. This practice 

payment is provided to acquire the technical knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement a conservation crop rotation on a typical 50 acre specialty crop farm. 

No foregone income. Cost represents typical situations for organic and non-organic producers.

Before Situation:

This rotation consisted of growing specialty crops. Fields range from nearly flat to B and C slopes. Erosion, soil quality, and pest management are the primary concerns.

After Situation:

The rotation established adds higher residue crop(s) to the rotation that will treat one or more fo the following resource concerns on organic and non-organic farms: 1) 

Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, 3) Reduce water quality degradation due to excess nutrients, 4) 

Improve soil moisture efficiency, 5) Reduce the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps, 6) Reduce plant pest pressures, 7) Provide feed and forage for 

domestic livestock, and 8) Provide food and cover habitat for wildlife, including pollinator forage, and nesting..

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,016.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $40.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00
Practice: 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

Scenario: #67 - Rice Residue Management for Waterfowl

Scenario Description:

The resource concern is food and cover for waterfowl where rice is grown in the waterfowl flyway zones. This scenario manages the rice residue after rice harvest to 

enhance the food and cover for waterfowl. The payment for the practice scenario is based on the cost to roll alternate strips of rice residue flat while leaving the alternate 

strips of rice residue left undisturbed after rice harvest.

Before Situation:

The typical situation after rice harvest is tilling the soil to bury or mix the rice residue remaining after harvest into the soil. This results on virtually no food or cover for the 

waterfowl that traverse the waterfowl flyways.

After Situation:

The rice residue after rice harvest will remain standing except for alternate strip of the rice residue will be rolled almost flat to provide alternate strip of both cover and 

food. The rice residue will be left in this condition until the following spring.

Feature Measure: Residue Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $514.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 50 $514.00
Practice: 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

Scenario: #95 - Specialty Crop Rotations-Small Scale

Scenario Description:

Scenario applies to Urban sites less than a 1/2 acre with a rotation of organic or non-organic specialty crops (fruits and vegetable) are produced as part of a conservation 

management system to treat one or more of the following resource concerns: 1) Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter 

content, 3) Reduce water quality degradation due to excess nutrients, 4) Improve soil moisture efficiency, 5) Reduce the concentration of salts and other chemicals from 

saline seeps, 6) Reduce plant pest pressures, 7) Provide feed and forage for domestic livestock, and 8) Provide food and cover habitat for wildlife, including pollinator 

forage, and nesting. This practice payment is provided to acquire the technical knowledge and skills necessary to effectively implement a conservation crop rotation on a 

typical urban specialty crop farm. Cost represents typical situations for organic and non-organic producers.

Before Situation:

This rotation consisted of growing specialty crops. Fields range from nearly flat to B and C slopes. Erosion, soil quality, and pest management are the primary concern. 

Removal of residue from the planted area is common leaving bare soil.

After Situation:

The rotation established adds diversity of plant material organic matter, higher residue amounts that will treat one or more of the following resource concerns on organic 

and non- organic farms: reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, improve soil moisture efficiency or reduce plant 

pest pressure.

Feature Measure: area planned

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $534.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $35.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 0.34 $9.29

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 0.34 $7.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40
Practice: 329 - Residue and Tillage Management, No Till

Scenario: #9 - No-Till/Strip-Till

Scenario Description:

This practice typically involves conversion from a clean-tilled (conventional tilled) system to no-till or strip-till system on 100 acres of cropland. This involves managing the 

amount, orientation and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the soil surface year round while limiting soil-disturbing activities used to establish and harvest 

crops. The practice is used to reduce sheet and rill erosion, reduce wind erosion, improve soil quality, reduce CO2 losses from the soil, reduce energy use, increase plant 

available moisture and provide food and escape cover for wildlife. The no-till/strip-till system includes non-tillage types of weed control and may also include a period of 

no till fallow. System is applicable in both irrigated and non-irrigated fields of organic and non-organic operations.

Before Situation:

Row crops or small grains are grown and harvested. Full width tillage is performed prior to planting and weed control during crop production is typically cultivation and 

chemical application. Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with additional operations in some fields to facilitate drainage, seedbed preparation or additional 

weed control. Residue amounts after tillage operations average 10% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall. Any crop residue 

that is present degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases during rainfall events. Sheet and rill erosion occurs with visible rills by spring. Soil health (soil 

organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. This system will typically have a negative Soil Conditioning 

Index (SCI) and a high Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR).

After Situation:

The Implementation Requirements for 329 Residue Management, No Till is prepared and installed. Managing crop residue on the surface of a field (typical 100 acre) year 

around according to the 329 practice plan while limiting soil disturbing activities to those which place nutrients, and plant crops that meet the minimum criteria in the 329 

practice standard. All crops are seeded/planted with a no-till drill or no-till/strip-till planter, which minimizes soil disturbance while establishing good seed-soil contact. All 

residues are to be maintained on the soil surface in a uniform distribution over the entire field and not burned or removed. Crop residues provide soil surface cover 

throughout the year. Runoff and erosion are reduced and no rills are visible on the soil surface. Wind erosion is reduced by standing residues and surface cover. Over time, 

soil health is improved due to the additional biomass (crop residues), ground cover, and soil infiltration. Crop residues and/or cover crop residues left on the soil surface 

may maximize weed control by increasing allelopathic and mulching effect, and provides cover for wildlife. The practice would require reducing soil disturbance and 

erosion and increasing biomass returned to the soil in sufficient amounts to achieve increased SCI and decreased STIR.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,176.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $21.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 100 $2,176.00
Practice: 329 - Residue and Tillage Management, No Till

Scenario: #16 - No-Till/Strip-Till with Herbicide and No Cover Crop

Scenario Description:

This practice typically involves conversion from a clean-tilled (conventional tilled) system to no-till or strip-till system on 100 acres of cropland. This involves managing the 

amount, orientation and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the soil surface year round while limiting soil-disturbing activities used to establish and harvest 

crops. The practice is used to reduce sheet and rill erosion, reduce wind erosion, improve soil quality, reduce CO2 losses from the soil, reduce energy use, increase plant 

available moisture and provide food and escape cover for wildlife. The no-till/strip-till system includes non-tillage types of weed control, which may include the use of 

herbicides and may also include a period of no till fallow. System is applicable in both irrigated and non-irrigated fields organic and non-organic operations. Herbicide 

treatment is to burndown weeds in the residue prior to planting the crop. This treatment is only when a cover crop is not present. Follow the Cover Crop (340) practice for 

herbicide burn down.

Before Situation:

Row crops or small grains are grown and harvested. Full width tillage is performed prior to planting and weed control during crop production is typically cultivation and 

chemical application. Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with additional operations in some fields to facilitate drainage, seedbed preparation or additional 

weed control. Residue amounts after tillage operations average 10% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall. Any crop residue 

that is present degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases during rainfall events. Sheet and rill erosion occurs with visible rills by spring. Soil health (soil 

organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue, and long periods of bare soil. This system will typically have a negative Soil Conditioning 

Index (SCI) and a high Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR).

After Situation:

The Implementation Requirements for 329 Residue Management, No Till/Strip Till is prepared and installed. Managing crop residue on the surface of a field (typical 100 

acre) year around according to the 329 practice plan while limiting soil disturbing activities to those which place nutrients, and plant crops that meet the minimum criteria 

in the 329 practice standard. All crops are seeded/planted with a no-till drill or no-till/strip-till planter, which minimizes soil disturbance while establishing good seed-soil 

contact. All residues are to be maintained on the soil surface in a uniform distribution over the entire field and not burned or removed. Crop residues provide soil surface 

cover throughout the year. Runoff and erosion are reduced and no rills are visible on the soil surface. Wind erosion is reduced by standing residues and surface cover. 

Over time, soil health is improved due to the additional biomass (crop residues), ground cover, and soil infiltration. Crop residues and/or cover crop residues left on the 

soil surface may maximize weed control by increasing allelopathic and mulching effect, and provides cover for wildlife. The practice would require reducing soil 

disturbance and erosion and increasing biomass returned to the soil in sufficient amounts to achieve increased SCI and decreased STIR.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,162.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 100 $679.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 50 $1,129.50

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 100 $1,266.00
Practice: 329 - Residue and Tillage Management, No Till

Scenario: #31 - Small Scale No Till

Scenario Description:

Scenario applies to Urban sites less than a 1/2 acre with a rotation of organic or non-organic specialty crops (fruits and vegetable) are produced as part of a conservation 

management system to treat one or more of the following resource concerns: 1) Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter 

content, 3) Improve soil moisture efficiency, 4) Reduce plant pest pressures. This practice payment is provided to effectively implement no-till or strip-till management on 

a typical urban specialty crop farm. Cost represents typical situations for organic and non-organic producers.

Before Situation:

This rotation consisted of growing specialty crops. Fields range from nearly flat to B and C slopes. Erosion, soil quality, and pest management are the primary concern. 

Removal of residue from the planted area is common leaving bare soil-residue amounts average 10% or less. Full width tillage is performed prior to planting . Weed 

control typically cultivation.

After Situation:

The implementation requirements are written following CPS 329 Residue and Tillage Management to will treat one or more of the following resource concerns on organic 

and non- organic farms: reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, improve soil moisture efficiency or reduce plant 

pest pressure. Soil disturbance is minimized with no-till drill or planter use. May include single slot opener and seedling or plugs follow. When pest management requires 

the removal of crop residue then planting beds are covered with cover crop using the 340 Cover Crop conservation practice. Runoff and erosion are reduced below T. No 

observed rills. Wind erosion reduced by maintaining surface cover. They system meets the soil condition index and STIR requirements.

Feature Measure: area planted

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $596.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $39.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.17 $3.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 0.17 $3.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40
Practice: 330 - Contour Farming

Scenario: #4 - Contour Farming

Scenario Description:

This scenario meets the specifications of the NRCS Contour Farming Standard. This scenario applies to fields greater than 5 acres. Payment reflects the extra labor and 

initial supervision costs in laying out and implementing contour farming. Annual erosion rates for the rotation exceeds tolerance levels. Excessive runoff leads to 

sedimentation of waterways

Before Situation:

The typical field size in this geographical region for this scenario is 30 acres. The field slope averages 6% while the slope length averages 160 feet. All farming operations on 

this cropland field including disking, bedding, planting, and cultivation are performed generally up and down the slope. Annual erosion rates for the rotation exceeds 

tolerance levels. Excessive runoff leads to sedimentation of waterways.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented according to 330 Contour Farming. This practice is installed on the entire field. A survey is completed by 

trained and certified Federal, State, local personnel or consultant to determine and 'stake' contour row arrangement. Permanent row markers are established to ensure 

that this practice is maintained for the life of this practice. All field operations including disking, bedding, planting, and cultivation are performed on the contour which is 

near perpendicular to the field slope. The farm manager is initially on site to ensure that equipment operators are properly following contour methods. Soil erosion rates 

are reduced by nearly half and may be below tolerance depending on the rotation. Likewise, sedimentation has been significantly reduced.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $332.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20
Practice: 332 - Contour Buffer Strips

Scenario: #45 - Introduced-High Value Cropland

Scenario Description:

Narrow strips of permanent, herbaceous vegetative cover established around the hill slope and alternated down the slope with wider cropped strips in between that are 

farmed on the contour. This practice applies to all cropland. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of mainly introduced species. The area of the field border is taken 

out of production.

Before Situation:

The NRCS water erosion prediction software indicates that there is a significant amount of sheet and rill erosion and/or a significant amount of sediment potentially 

delivered to the downslope edge of the field. Specialty crops for market are grown in this field. A secondary concern is that there may not be enough wildlife/pollinator 

habitat, food source or refugia in the field or farm.

After Situation:

Introduced grasses and legumes will be established in strips in the field to meet the Contour buffer Strips (332) criteria, resource needs, and producer objectives. Minimum 

widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Introduced species shall be selected that do not function as a host for 

diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control water erosion to tolerable levels in the cropped area of the field.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,231.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,231.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Vegetables 2033 Vegetables is Primary Crop Acres $2,088.46 1 $2,088.46

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 20 $15.80

Sulfate of Potash 263 Approved for Organic Systems - Muriate of Potash Pound $0.90 20 $18.00

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 332 - Contour Buffer Strips

Scenario: #56 - Introduced Species, Foregone Income (Organic and Non-Organic)

Scenario Description:

Narrow strips of permanent, herbaceous vegetative cover established around the hill slope and alternated down the slope with wider cropped strips in between that are 

farmed on the contour. This practice applies to all cropland. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The area of the contour grass strip is taken out 

of production. This applies to both organic and non-organic.

Before Situation:

The NRCS water erosion prediction software indicates that there is a significant amount of sheet and rill erosion and/or a significant amount of sediment potentially 

delivered to the downslope edge of the field. A secondary concern is that there may not be enough wildlife/pollinator habitat, food source or refugia in the field or farm.

After Situation:

Introduced grasses and legumes will be established in strips in the field to meet the Contour buffer Strips (332) criteria, resource needs, and producer objectives. Minimum 

widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Introduced species shall be selected that do not function as a host for 

diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control water erosion to tolerable levels in the cropped area of the field.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $495.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $495.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1 $352.48

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 20 $15.80

Sulfate of Potash 263 Approved for Organic Systems - Muriate of Potash Pound $0.90 20 $18.00

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 332 - Contour Buffer Strips

Scenario: #57 - Native Species, Foregone Income (Organic and Non-organic)

Scenario Description:

Narrow strips of permanent, herbaceous vegetative cover established around the hill slope and alternated down the slope with wider cropped strips in between that are 

organically or non-organically farmed on the contour. This practice applies to all cropland. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The area of the 

contour grass strip is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

The NRCS water erosion prediction software indicates that there is a significant amount of sheet and rill erosion and/or a significant amount of sediment potentially 

delivered to the downslope edge of the field. A secondary concern is that there may not be enough wildlife/pollinator habitat, food source or refugia in the field or farm.

After Situation:

Native grasses, legumes and forbs will be established in strips in the field to meet the Contour buffer Strips (332) criteria, resource needs, and producer objectives. 

Minimum widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Native species shall be selected that do not function as a 

host for diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control water erosion to tolerable levels in the cropped area of the field.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $528.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $528.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1 $352.48

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97
Practice: 332 - Contour Buffer Strips

Scenario: #58 - Native, Foregone Income-High Value Cropland

Scenario Description:

Narrow strips of permanent, herbaceous vegetative cover established around the hill slope and alternated down the slope with wider cropped strips in between that are 

farmed on the contour. This practice applies to all cropland. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The area of the contour buffer strips is taken 

out of production.

Before Situation:

The NRCS water erosion prediction software indicates that there is a significant amount of sheet and rill erosion and/or a significant amount of sediment potentially 

delivered to the downslope edge of the field. Specialty crops for market are produced on this acreage. A secondary concern is that there may not be enough 

wildlife/pollinator habitat, food source or refugia in the field or farm.

After Situation:

Native grasses, legumes and forbs will be established in strips in the field to meet the Contour buffer Strips (332) criteria, resource needs, and producer objectives. 

Minimum widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Native species shall be selected that do not function as a 

host for diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control water erosion to tolerable levels in the cropped area of the field.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,264.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,264.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Vegetables 2033 Vegetables is Primary Crop Acres $2,088.46 1 $2,088.46

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97
Practice: 332 - Contour Buffer Strips

Scenario: #60 - Wildlife/Pollinator-High Value Cropland

Scenario Description:

Narrow strips of permanent, herbaceous vegetative cover established around the hill slope and alternated down the slope with wider cropped strips in between that are 

farmed on the contour. This practice applies to all cropland. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of mainly pollinator friendly species. The area of the field border 

is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

The NRCS water erosion prediction software indicates that there is a significant amount of sheet and rill erosion and/or a significant amount of sediment potentially 

delivered to the downslope edge of the field. Specialty crops for market are grown in this field. A secondary concern is that there may not be enough wildlife/pollinator 

habitat, food source or refugia in the field or farm.

After Situation:

Introduced grasses and legumes will be established in strips in the field to meet the Contour buffer Strips (332) criteria, resource needs, and producer objectives. Minimum 

widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Species selected shall meet the wildlife/pollinator habitat 

requirements of the state and be adapted to the site; not function as a host for diseases of a field crop and; have physical characteristics necessary to control sheet and rill 

erosion to tolerable levels on the cropped area of the field.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,264.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,264.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Vegetables 2033 Vegetables is Primary Crop Acres $2,088.46 1 $2,088.46

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97
Practice: 333 - Amending Soil Properties with Gypsum Products

Scenario: #1 - Gypsum greater than 1 ton rate

Scenario Description:

Gypsum application of more than one ton/acre rate (typical average 1.5 tons/acre) to improve surface water quality due to phosphorus, pathogens, and soil health (Ca/Mg 

ratio). Scenario to be used in combination with an implemented nutrient management plan. The producer will use gypsum to improve soil surface structure and reduce 

concentration of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) in runoff. Scenario includes the cost of material, application, and supervisor/management time to establish and 

manage new application methodology, including rates, timing, and sequence of application with other nutrient materials (i.e., manures, bio-solids, and fertilizers). The 

addressed resource concern is water quality and soil health. Associated practices are Nutrient Management (590), Conservation Crop Rotation (328), Cover Crop (340), 

Residue and Tillage Management, No-till (329) and Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till (345).

Before Situation:

Cropland in continuous production having relatively low soil organic matter and moderately high clay content with application of manure with a risk of pathogens. Soil in 

these fields has poor soil structure and a high risk of phosphorus and pathogen runoff. The soils are susceptible to soil crusting and as a result of long term tillage systems 

have a high concentration of phosphorous near the soil surface. The combination of poor soil structure and high nutrient levels at the soil surface results in runoff events 

with high concentrations of DRP that may contribute to degraded water quality.

After Situation:

A determination based on existing soil samples used in normal nutrient management has been made. The Implementation Requirements for Amending Soil Properties 

with Gypsum (333) has been developed for the site. The application of gypsum to the field based on the existing soil samples will result in reduced runoff and improved 

runoff water quality. This condition over time in combination with an implemented nutrient management plan and supporting practices to improve soil health will 

improve surface water quality.

Feature Measure: Acres with a gypsum product applic

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,845.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $246.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 40 $372.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Gypsum, Ground Ag Grade, Bulk 1224 Agricultural grade quarry ground gypsum (CaCO4) for dispersive soil 

treatment. Materials and delivery only.

Ton $157.03 60 $9,421.80
Practice: 333 - Amending Soil Properties with Gypsum Products

Scenario: #2 - Gypsum less than 1 ton per acre 

Scenario Description:

Gypsum application of less than or equal to one ton/acre rate (typical average 1 tons/acre) to improve surface water quality due to phosphorus, pathogens, and soil health 

(Ca/Mg ratio). Scenario to be used in combination with an implemented nutrient management plan. The producer will use gypsum to improve soil surface structure and 

reduce concentration of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) in runoff. Scenario includes the cost of material, application, and management time to establish and manage 

new application methodology, including rates, timing, and sequence of application with other nutrient materials (i.e., manures, bio-solids, and fertilizers). . The addressed 

resource concern is water quality and soil health. Associated practices are Nutrient Management (590), Conservation Crop Rotation (328), Cover Crop (340), Residue and 

Tillage Management, No-till (329) and Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till (345).

Before Situation:

Cropland in continuous production having relatively low soil organic matter and moderately high clay content. Soil in these fields have poor soil structure and a high risk of 

phosphorus and pathogen runoff. The soils are susceptible to soil crusting and as a result of long term tillage systems have high concentration of phosphorous near the soil 

surface. The combination of poor soil structure and high nutrient levels at the soil surface results in runoff events with high concentrations of DRP that may contribute to 

degraded water quality.

After Situation:

A determination based on existing soil samples used in normal nutrient management has been made. The Implementation Requirements for Amending Soil Properties 

with Gypsum (333) has been developed for the site. The application of gypsum to the field is based on the existing soil samples and will result in reduce runoff and 

improve runoff water quality. This condition over time in combination with the implemented nutrient management plan and supporting practices to improve soil health 

will improve surface water quality.

Feature Measure: Acres with a gypsum product applic

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,134.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $128.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 40 $372.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Gypsum, Ground Ag Grade, Bulk 1224 Agricultural grade quarry ground gypsum (CaCO4) for dispersive soil 

treatment. Materials and delivery only.

Ton $157.03 30 $4,710.90
Practice: 334 - Controlled Traffic Farming

Scenario: #4 - Controlled Traffic

Scenario Description:

This practice must be part of a conservation management system to reduce soil compaction. This scenario considers the time needed to modify equipment, develop the 

technical skills necessary to effectively implement a controlled traffic farming system on a typical 200 acre cropland farm. The controlled traffic generally utilizes RTK 

automatic steering technology to locate and maintain high load field traffic. This scenario represents the costs associated with reducing the amount of surface area 

tracked/compacted to 33% or less. Cost represents typical situations for conventional, organic, and transitioning to organic producers.

Before Situation:

The typical scenario for this practice is a 200 acre row crop operation on high clay, poorly drained soils. Studies show that when high wheel load traffic is not controlled, up 

to 85% of the field is tracked causing some degree of soil compaction. Before the practice is installed traffic is uncontrolled tracking and 85% of the field has compacted 

soil which limits soil health.

After Situation:

An Implementation Requirement for Controlled Traffic (334) is developed and the controlled traffic lanes installed per the implementation requirements. After the practice 

is installed wheel/track traffic is confined to designated traffic lanes/tramlines. Wheel/track soil compaction is confined to the traffic lanes to protect the remaining 

surface area and subsoil from wheel/track compaction. The wheel/track traffic follows the installed traffic lanes/tramlines each year.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,180.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $55.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 80 $8,627.20
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #52 - Compost - On Site

Scenario Description:

This scenario uses compost of known origin and production methods to maintain, increase, or improve organic matter content and improve aggregate stability, habitat for 

soil organisms, and plant productivity and health. Compost produced in a compost facility on farm has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of 

Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant University (LGU) recognized methods.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

compost is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Compost was tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A 

follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: area treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $719.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $119.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 1.5 $207.90

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1 $59.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #53 - Compost - Off Site

Scenario Description:

This scenario uses compost from an offsite source to maintain, increase, or improve organic matter content and improve aggregate stability, habitat for soil organisms, and 

plant productivity and health. Compost has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant 

University (LGU) recognized methods. Compost is applied at the recommended rate to treat the identified resource concerns. Typical application rate is 3 ton 

compost/acre.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

compost is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Compost was tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A 

follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,647.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $274.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 1.5 $207.90

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 18 $939.60

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1 $59.82

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 720 $295.20

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #54 - 100% Biochar

Scenario Description:

Apply 100% biochar to sequester carbon, reduce N losses, and improve other soil health related resource concerns. Biochar has been tested according to the Test Methods 

for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant University (LGU) recognized methods and is imported from an outside source. Biochar is 

applied at the recommended rate to treat the identified resource concerns. Typical application is 4 cubic yards per acre.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

biochar is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Biochar was applied at the recommended rate and proportion. Soil health resource concerns were treated. A follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of 

the biochar application.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,016.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,016.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1 $59.82

Biochar 2743 Solid material obtained from thermochemical conversion of biomass in 

an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). Biochar is typically produced 

from woody biomass, but other carbon sources may be used. Materials 

only.

Cubic Yards $201.87 4 $807.48

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #55 - Other Carbon Amendment

Scenario Description:

This scenario is used for the application of different types of other carbon amendments, such as woodchips, bagasse, high carbon wood ash or distillation residue that are 

obtained at a negligible cost. The primary purpose of this scenario is to facilitate transport and application of the other carbon amendment. The carbon amendment is 

tested and brought on site. Addition of the carbon amendment directly improves the carbon content of the soil and improves soil health related resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

amendment is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

The carbon amendment was applied at the recommended rate based on the product analysis and the purpose for the application. Soil health resource concerns were 

treated. A follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $956.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $956.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1 $59.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #56 - Compost - Small Areas

Scenario Description:

This scenario uses compost from an offsite source to maintain, increase, or improve organic matter content and improve aggregate stability, habitat for soil organisms, and 

plant productivity and health. This scenario is used for situations where manual labor is typically used to apply or incorporate compost amendments. Compost has been 

tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant University (LGU) recognized methods. Compost is 

applied at the recommended rate to treat the identified resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

compost is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Compost was tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A 

follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the compost application.

Feature Measure: Area treated.

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $479.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.25 $3.64

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 1 $52.20

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1 $59.82

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 18.75 $7.69

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #57 - Compost + Biochar - Small Areas

Scenario Description:

Apply a blend of >=50% biochar and <=50% compost pr manure (by volume) to sequester carbon, reduce nitrogen loss, improve organic matter content and improve 

aggregate stability, habitat for soil organisms, and plant productivity and health. Biochar and compost has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination 

of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant University (LGU) recognized methods and is imported from an outside source. The bland contains at least 

50% biochar and is applied at the recommended rates to treat the identified resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

compost or manure and biochar is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Compost or manure and biochar were tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating 

unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: Area treated

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $589.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $58.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.25 $3.64

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 0.5 $26.10

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 2 $119.64

Biochar 2743 Solid material obtained from thermochemical conversion of biomass in 

an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). Biochar is typically produced 

from woody biomass, but other carbon sources may be used. Materials 

only.

Cubic Yards $201.87 0.38 $76.71

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 18.75 $7.69

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #58 - 20% Biochar-80% Compost

Scenario Description:

Apply a blend of >=20% biochar and <=80% compost or manure (by volume) to sequester carbon, reduce nitrogen loss, and improve other soil health related resource 

concerns. Biochar and compost or manure has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land 

Grant University (LGU) recognized methods and is imported from an outside source. The blend contains at least 20% biochar and is applied at the recommended rate to 

treat the identified resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

biochar and compost or manure is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Biochar and compost or manure was tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating 

unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $635.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $635.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 4.4 $229.68

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 2 $119.64

Biochar 2743 Solid material obtained from thermochemical conversion of biomass in 

an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). Biochar is typically produced 

from woody biomass, but other carbon sources may be used. Materials 

only.

Cubic Yards $201.87 0.8 $161.50

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #59 - 60% Biochar-40% Compost

Scenario Description:

Apply a blend of >=60% biochar and <=40% compost or manure (by volume) to sequester carbon, reduce nitrogen loss, and improve other soil health related resource 

concerns. Biochar and compost has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant 

University (LGU) recognized methods and is imported from an outside source. The blend contains at least 60% biochar and is applied at the recommended rate to treat the 

identified resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

biochar and compost or manure is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Biochar and compost or manure were tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating 

unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $843.81

Scenario Cost/Unit: $843.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 2.2 $114.84

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 2 $119.64

Biochar 2743 Solid material obtained from thermochemical conversion of biomass in 

an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). Biochar is typically produced 

from woody biomass, but other carbon sources may be used. Materials 

only.

Cubic Yards $201.87 2.4 $484.49

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #60 - 40% Biochar-60% Compost

Scenario Description:

Apply a blend of >=40% biochar and <=60% compost or manure (by volume) to sequester carbon, reduce nitrogen loss, and improve other soil health related resource 

concerns. Biochar and compost has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant 

University (LGU) recognized methods and is imported from an outside source. The blend contains at least 40% biochar and is applied at the recommended rate to treat the 

identified resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

biochar and compost or manure is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Biochar and compost or manure were tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating 

unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $739.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $739.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 3.3 $172.26

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 2 $119.64

Biochar 2743 Solid material obtained from thermochemical conversion of biomass in 

an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). Biochar is typically produced 

from woody biomass, but other carbon sources may be used. Materials 

only.

Cubic Yards $201.87 1.6 $322.99

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #61 - 80% Biochar-20% Compost

Scenario Description:

Apply a blend of >=80% biochar and <=20% compost or manure (by volume) to sequester carbon, reduce nitrogen loss, and improve other soil health related resource 

concerns. Biochar and compost has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant 

University (LGU) recognized methods and is imported from an outside source. The blend contains at least 80% biochar and is applied at the recommended rate to treat the 

identified resource concerns.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

biochar and compost or manure is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site-specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

biochar and compost or manure is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

Feature Measure: Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $947.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $947.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 0.5 $69.30

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 1.1 $57.42

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 2 $119.64

Biochar 2743 Solid material obtained from thermochemical conversion of biomass in 

an oxygen-limited environment (pyrolysis). Biochar is typically produced 

from woody biomass, but other carbon sources may be used. Materials 

only.

Cubic Yards $201.87 3.2 $645.98

Mobilization

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 336 - Soil Carbon Amendment

Scenario: #91 - Compost - On Site

Scenario Description:

This scenario uses compost of known origin and production methods to maintain, increase, or improve organic matter content and improve aggregate stability, habitat for 

soil organisms, and plant productivity and health. Compost produced in a compost facility on farm has been tested according to the Test Methods for the Examination of 

Composting and Compost (TMECC), or by other Land Grant University (LGU) recognized methods.

Before Situation:

An in-field assessment or a site specific resource assessment tool or test indicates that soil health resource concerns are present and the addition of analyzed and verified 

compost is needed to improve the condition of the soil.

After Situation:

Compost was tested and applied at the recommended rate that will improve soil organic matter and organism habitat without creating unacceptable risk of N or P loss. A 

follow up assessment is planned to determine the effect of the application.

Feature Measure: area treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $719.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $119.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 1.5 $207.90

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 1 $59.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #1 - Herbaceous Fuel, Small Acreage

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to a designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on a burn area 

of <160 acres and applies under the following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned <15% slopes with herbaceous and/or low volatile 

woody fuel with no high volatile fuels. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included in the 

cost of the burn. Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios).

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species, or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved, and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and /or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,370.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 8 $103.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 7 $352.80

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 5 $18.55

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #2 - Herbaceous Fuel - Standard

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to a designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on the 

following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned <15% slopes with herbaceous and/or low volatile herbaceous fuels with limited high 

volatile fuels. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included in cost of burn. Refer to Firebreak 

(394) standard and cost scenarios).

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species, or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and/or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,332.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 8 $103.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 34 $811.92

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 14 $705.60

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 10 $37.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #3 - Site Preparation

Scenario Description:

Treating areas to encourage natural seeding or to permit reforestation by planting or direct seeding. Burning is utilized to eliminate existing competition and debris, 

reduce forest fuel, and to prepare the site for planting or seeding. Burning a cutover site helps prepare the site for replanting. Burn should expose a portion of bare soil 

for planting. Objectives of a site preparation burn may dictate timing and burn intensity. 

Before Situation:

Area to be burned has had a portion of the overstory removed. Slash, brush, and grasses dominate the site. 

After Situation:

Area to be planted has been burned to remove grass, reduce competing brush, and remove downed slash leftover from forestry activities. Some bare ground is exposed. 

Feature Measure: Acres Planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,754.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $59.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 4 $73.20

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 4 $51.88

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 5 $252.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 17 $1,833.28

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 25 $92.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 4 $1,227.28
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #4 - Level terrain, volatile fuel (wood) <640 acres

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to a designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution, and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on a burn area 

of <640 acres and applies under the following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned <15% slopes with herbaceous and low volatile woody 

fuels, with high volatile woody fuels. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included in cost of 

burn. Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios).

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species, or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved, and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock andor wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres Planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,648.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 24 $614.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 36 $658.80

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 24 $311.28

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 10 $37.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 10 $1,838.00
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #64 - Understory Burn

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications. An Understory burn can consume debris or 

leaf litter under controlled conditions that otherwise could burn uncontrollably and devastatingly. Prior to burning unit may need to be treated to reduce slash height and 

quantities. Burn should be cool enough to not cause mortality to residual stand but also must reduce litter and debris. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak 

width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included in cost of burn. Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios)

Before Situation:

Light slash accumulation in a open forest stand. Leaf litter and debris throughout stand. Small seedlings of various quantities may be present.

After Situation:

Litter, debris and slash are consumed, small seedlings may be killed during active burning. Residual larger trees have little to no scorching. Post treatment fire danger is 

significantly reduced.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,712.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 8 $103.76

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 32 $1,021.44

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 20 $74.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #65 - Level Terrain, Herbaceous Fuel Non-Volatile

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on a burn area 

of less than 320 acres and applies under the following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned <15% slopes with herbaceous and/or low 

volatile woody fuel with no high volatile fuels. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included 

in cost of burn. Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios)

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and /or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,275.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 16 $207.52

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 32 $1,021.44

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 20 $74.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #66 - Level Terrain, Volatile or woody fuels 

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on a burn area 

of less than 320 acres and applies under the following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned <15% slopes with herbaceous and low volatile 

woody fuel with high volatile woody fuels less than 4ft tall. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is 

not included in cost of burn. Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios)

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and /or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,315.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 16 $207.52

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 64 $2,042.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 25 $92.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #67 - Steep Terrain, Herbaceous Fuel 

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on a burn area 

320 acres and applies under the following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned >15% slopes with herbaceous and/or low volatile woody 

fuel with no high volatile fuels. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included in cost of burn. 

Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios)

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and /or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,610.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 24 $439.20

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 16 $207.52

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 64 $2,042.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 25 $92.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #68 - Steep Terrain, Volatile or Woody fuels

Scenario Description:

Applying a prescribed burn according to designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specifications in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes. This scenario is based on a burn area 

of 320 acres and applies under the following conditions: where the terrain of the majority of the area to be burned >15% slopes with herbaceous and low volatile woody 

fuel with high volatile woody fuels greater than 4ft tall, but fire is still a ground fire carried by fine fuel. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of 

these burns. (Constructed firebreak cost is not included in cost of burn. Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and cost scenarios)

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and /or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,578.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 48 $878.40

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 16 $207.52

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 30 $111.30

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #69 - Growing Season Prescribed Burning (FI)

Scenario Description:

Applying prescribed burning according to a designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) standard and specification in order to control undesirable species, 

improve wildlife habitat and plant productivity/quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain ecological processes during the growing season to deplete Sericea 

lespedeza seed production. This scenario is based on research by applicable land grant university recommendations to treat invasive weeds of concern (in this case, 

Sericea lespedeza). Scenario applicable when the majority of the terrain to be burned <15% slopes with herbaceous, and/or low volatility fuels, and with limited highly 

volatile fuels. Burned firebreaks used to achieve total firebreak width are part of these burns (constructed firebreak costs are not included in the cost of the scenario. 

Refer to Firebreak (394) standard and payment scenarios).

Before Situation:

Traditional spring prescribed burning is not an effective means to control/decrease Sericea lespedeza infestation of managed grazing lands.

After Situation:

Growing season prescribed burns produce a marked decrease in Sericea lespedeza seed production. Desired plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and 

invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and/or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres Planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,516.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 12 $307.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 30 $549.00

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 8 $180.72

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 12 $155.64

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 90 $2,853.00

Month

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 42 $1,340.64

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 10 $37.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 7 $1,286.60
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #74 - Steep Terrain, Volatile Fuel - Specialized Burn Crew

Scenario Description:

Application of a prescribed burn by a trained, experienced commercial prescribed burn company according to designed burn plan and NRCS Prescribed Burning (338) 

standard and specifications to control undesirable species, improve wildlife habitat, improve plant productivity and/or quality, facilitate grazing distribution and maintain 

ecological processes. The skills needed to implement the prescribed burn include interior ignition techniques, knowledge of fire behavior in very steep terrain with areas 

of heavy eastern red cedar cover. Members of the burn crew have had specialized training such as S130/190, NWCG Training or similar training. The typical scenario is 

640 acres or less and applies under the following conditions: where the majority of the area to be burned has a slope >15%, fuels are volatile (such as eastern red cedar), 

interior ignition techniques are needed and the landowner knowledge of prescribed burn techniques are limited, prescribed burn associations are not present in the area 

or are not able to conduct the burn in a timely manner so that a professional prescribed crew is required. Burn boss will visit site and modify burn plan as needed prior to 

the planned burn date. This scenario is intended to encourage producers who are unwilling to complete burns themselves due to a lack of specialized equipment and 

skills/training necessary, but are willing to hiring an experienced burn crew to implement this important conservation tool.

Before Situation:

Desirable plant composition is lacking due to reduced plant vigor, invasive species or improper livestock distribution. 

After Situation:

Desirable plant composition is restored, plant vigor improved and invasive species reduced. Forage production and quality for livestock and /or wildlife is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,074.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 64 $1,638.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 96 $1,756.80

Trailer, water tank 1598 Mobile 5,000 gal water tank mounted on a trailer. Equipment only. 

Does not include towing equipment.

Hours $22.59 32 $722.88

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 32 $415.04

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 104 $3,319.68

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 80 $8,627.20

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 75 $278.25

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 338 - Prescribed Burning

Scenario: #78 - Pile Burning

Scenario Description:

Burning of consolidated material created through mechanical treatment of large woody vegetation (juniper/pinon trees, large shrubs) under 314. Brush management. 

Typical unit is based on a 100 acre treatment area where brush management activities included cutting and piling of treated shrubs and trees to address habitat 

improvement for desired species and increase available forage for grazing and browsing animals. A prescribed burn plan will be completed as required by our 338 

Standards and Specifications.

Before Situation:

Remnant material has been piled following mechanical large woody vegetation treatment. Untreated piles serve as perches and hiding cover for raptors, corvids, and 

ground predators which may negatively affect desired wildlife species such as sage grouse. Piles left untreated may provide safe sites for undesirable or noxious weeds and 

can reduce amount of available forage for livestock. Fuel loading is concentrated but leads to increased risk if left untreated and can lead to more range fires.

After Situation:

Treated area has reduced threats to desired wildlife species, improved wildlife habitat and access to forage resources. Ecological conditions of the site should resemble 

expected attributes and functions found within the ecological site description. Burned sites should be monitored to determine if additional practices such as 315- 

herbaceous weed treatment and/or 550- range seeding are needed to address additional concerns.

Feature Measure: Acres Planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,434.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 20 $366.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #17 - Cover Crop - Basic (Organic and Non-organic)

Scenario Description:

Typically a small grain or legume (may also use forage sorghum, radishes, turnips, buckwheat, etc.) will be planted as a cover crop immediately after harvest of a row crop, 

and will be followed by a row crop that will utilize the residue as a mulch. This scenario assumes that seed will be planted with a drill. The cover crop should be allowed to 

generate as much biomass as possible, without delaying planting of the following crop. The cover crop will be terminated using an approved herbicide prior to planting the 

subsequent crop.

Before Situation:

Row crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton are grown and harvested in mid-late fall. Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with rows in some fields being 

hipped for drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, winter, 

and early spring. Over the winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion exceeds soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the fields flows 

into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage 

practices, low residue crops, and long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements according to Cover Crop (340) are prepared and implemented. Within 30 days after harvest of the row crop, fields are planted with a small 

grain or legume cover crop (may also use forage sorghum, radishes, turnips, buckwheat, etc.), typically rye or clover. The average field size is 40 acres. The cover crop is 

seeded with a drill. No additional fertilizer is applied with the cover crop. The cover crop provides soil cover by late fall, throughout the winter, and into the early spring. 

Runoff and erosion are reduced. Wind erosion is reduced by standing residues. The cover crop is terminated with an approved herbicide prior to spring planting as late as 

feasible to maximize plant biomass production. Over time, soil health is improved due to the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity 

introduced to the cropping system. Cover crop residues left on the surface may maximize weed control by increasing allelopathic and mulching effect.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,280.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $82.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 40 $271.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 40 $870.40

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 40 $506.40

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 40 $1,631.60
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #18 - Cover Crop - Adaptive Management

Scenario Description:

The practice scenario is for the implementation of cover crops in small replicated plots to allow the producer to learn how to manage cover crops on their operation. 

Scenario includes implementing replicated strip trials on a field plot to evaluate, identify and implement a particular cover crop management strategy (e.g., cover crop vs 

no cover crop, multiple species vs, single species, evaluate different termination methods or timings, using a legume vs no legume for nitrogen credits). This will be done 

following the guidance in the NRCS Technical Note 10 - Adaptive Management.

Before Situation:

Row crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton are grown and harvested in mid-late fall. Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with rows in some fields being 

hipped for drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall. Over the winter 

residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Sheet and rill erosion occurs with visible rills by spring. Runoff from the fields flows into streams, 

water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low 

residue crops, and long periods of bare soil. The producer is considering the use of cover crops but is unsure how to manage on their unique operation or is seeking a way 

to better manage cover crops in the operation.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements for Cover Crop (340) will be prepared along with the Adaptive Management plan for the replicated cover crop plots and implemented. 

Installation of this scenario will result in establishment of a cover crop replicated plots to compare to different management strategies for cover crop management 

following the guidance in the Agronomy Technical Note 10 - Adaptive Management. Implementation involves establishing the replicated plots to evaluate one or more 

cover crop management strategies. The plot will consist of at least 4 replicated plots designed, laid out, managed and evaluated with the assistance of a consultant 

knowledgeable in cover crop management. Results are used to make cover crop management decisions to address erosion and water quality issues. Yields will be 

measured and statistically summarized following the procedures in Agronomy Technical Note 10 - Adaptive Management. The yields for each plot will be adjusted to the 

appropriate moisture content. This would be repeated for 3 years.

Feature Measure: Based on 10 acres

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,619.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,619.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #19 - Cover Crop - Multiple Species (Organic and Non-organic)

Scenario Description:

Typically the multi-species cover crop (two or more species) mix includes a small grain, a legume, and may include other species such as forage sorghum, radishes, turnips, 

buckwheat, etc.). This mix will address all the purposes of the Cover Crop (340) standard. Typically the cover crop is seeded immediately after harvest of a row crop, but 

may be inter-seeded into a row crop using a broadcast seeder, drill, or similar device. The cover crop will be followed by another row crop and will utilize the residue as a 

mulch. The cover crop should be allowed to generate as much biomass as possible without delaying planting of the following crop. The cover crop will be terminated using 

an approved herbicide or tillage prior to planting the subsequent crop and terminated per the NRCS Cover Crop Termination Guidelines.

Before Situation:

Row crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton are grown and harvested in mid-late fall. Fields are disked immediately following harvest with rows in some fields being 

hipped for drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, winter, 

and early spring. Over the winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion exceeds soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the fields flows 

into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage 

practices, low residue crops, and long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements according to Cover Crop (340) are prepared and implemented. Within 30 days after the harvest of row crop, fields are planted with a multispecies (2 or more species) cover crop mix that generally includes a small grain, a legume, and may include other species such as forage sorghum, radishes, turnips, 

buckwheat, etc. The average field size is 40 acres. The cover crop is seeded with a drill, broadcast seeder, aerial broadcast, or other method. No additional fertilizer is 

applied with the cover crop. The cover crop provides soil cover by late fall, throughout the winter, and into the early spring. Runoff and erosion are reduced. Wind erosion 

is reduced by standing residues. The cover crop is terminated with an approved herbicide prior to spring planting as late as feasible to maximize plant biomass production. 

Over time, soil health is improved due to the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity introduced to the cropping system. Cover crop residues 

left on the surface may maximize weed control by increasing allelopathic and mulching effect.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,102.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $102.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 40 $271.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 40 $870.40

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 40 $506.40

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 40 $2,454.40
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #26 - Caribbean Legume Cover Crop

Scenario Description:

A legume will be planted as a cover crop immediately after harvest of a row crop, and will be followed by a row crop that will utilize fixed nitrogen and cover crop biomass 

as a mulch, provide erosion reduction, improve water quality, and soil health. This scenario assumes that seed will be planted with a drill. Legume seeds must be 

inoculated with the proper inoculant prior to planting. The cover crop should be allowed to reach early to mid-bloom before it is terminated, using an approved herbicide, 

in order to maximize nitrogen fixation.

Before Situation:

Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with some fields being hipped for drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in high erosion, 

impaired water quality, and degraded soil health.

After Situation:

The 340 Implementation Requirements is completed per the needed specifications for the field site. Harvest fields are planted immediately with a legume cover crop. The 

average field size is 5 acres. The cover crop is seeded with a drill. No fertilizer is applied with the cover crop. The cover crop provides soil cover to reduce erosion, improve 

water quality, and improve soil health.

Feature Measure: acres planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $537.45

Scenario Cost/Unit: $107.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D 330 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $10.10 5 $50.50

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 5 $8.05

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 5 $306.80
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #35 - Cover Crop - Basic Organic

Scenario Description:

'Typically a small grain or small grain-legume mix (may also use forage sorghum, radishes, turnips, buckwheat, etc) will be planted as a cover crop immediately after 

harvest of an organically grown crop, and will be followed by an organically grown crop that will utilize the residue as a mulch. This scenario assumes that seed will be 

planted with a no-till drill. The cover crop should be allowed to generate as much biomass as possible, without delaying planting of the following crop. The cover crop will 

be terminated using a mechnical kill method (mowing, rolling, undercutting, etc.), within weeks prior to planting the subsequent crop. This scenario REQUIRES use of 

Certified Organic Seed. Associated practices: Conservation Cover (327), Conservation Crop Rotation (328), Residue and Tillage Management, No-Till/Strip Till/Direct 

Seed (329), Critical Area Planting (342), Residue Management, Seasonal (344), Residue and Tillage Management, Mulch Till (345), Residue and Tillage Management, Ridge 

Till (346), Nutrient Management (590), Integrated Pest Management (595).'

Before Situation:

Organically grown crops such as various vegetable and fruit crops (along with organically produced row crops) are grown and harvested in mid-late fall. Fields are disked 

immediately following harvest. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the 

fall, winter, and early spring. Over the winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Sheet and rill erosion occurs with visible rills by spring. 

Runoff from the fields flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over 

time as a result of tillage practices, low residue crops, and long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Within 30 days after harvest of organic crop, fields are planted with a small grain-legume mix cover crop, typically rye and clover. The average field size is 25 acres. The 

cover crop is seeded with a no-till drill. No additional fertilizer is applied with the cover crop. The cover crop provides soil cover by late fall, throughout the winter, and 

into the early spring. Runoff and erosion are reduced and no rills are visible on the soil surface in the spring. The cover crop is terminated with using a mechnical kill 

method (mowing, rolling, undercutting, etc.), prior to spring planting as late as feasible to maximize plant biomass production. Over time, soil health is improved due to 

the additional biomass, ground cover, and plant diversity introduced to the cropping system. Wind erosion is reduced by standing resides. Cover crop residues left on the 

surface may maximize weed control by increasing allelopathic and mulching effect.

Feature Measure: Area Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,754.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $125.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 30 $819.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 30 $652.80

Materials

Certified Organic, Annual Grasses, 2343

Legumes and/or Forbs

Annual grasses, mostly introduced but may be native. Used for 

temporary cover or cover crops. Certified organic. Includes material 

and shipping only.

Acres $76.06 30 $2,281.80
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #44 - Cover Crop Multiple Species Frost Terminated Organic and Non-Organic

Scenario Description:

Typically the multi-species cover crop mix (three or more species) includes a warm season grass and a warm season broadleaf or legume and may include other species 

such as oats, radishes, turnips, or rapeseed which will frost terminate. This mix will address all the purposes of the Cover Crop (340) standard. Typically the cover crop is 

seeded in the late summer or early fall immediately after harvest of a small grain or silage. The cover crop will be followed by another row crop and will utilize the residue 

as a mulch. The cover crop should be seeded early enough to allow six to eight weeks of growth prior to the first killing frost.

Before Situation:

Crops such as wheat, millet, or silage are harvested mid-late summer and allowed to remain fallow until the next crop is planted, usually the following spring. Fields are 

tilled or sprayed multiple times to control weeds or structural practices may be installed during the fallow period leaving the soil exposed to wind and water erosion during 

the fall, winter, and early spring. Over the winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion may exceed soil loss tolerances and runoff 

from the fields flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as 

a result of tillage practices, low residue crops, and long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Within 2-weeks after the harvest of a small grain or silage, or immediately after the construction of structural practices, fields are planted with a multi-species (3 or more 

species) cover crop mix that generally includes a warm season grass and a warm season broadleaf or legume, and may include other species such as oats, radishes, turnips, 

or rapeseed. The cover crop is seeded with a no-till drill or air seeder. The cover crop will grow until the first killing frost and will provide cover throughout the winter and 

into the early spring. Runoff and erosion are reduced and soil biology is enhanced by the extended presence of a living root. Over time, soil health is improved due to the 

additional biomass and plant diversity introduced into the cropping system. Additionally, cover crop residues left on the surface will help control winter annual weeds 

resulting in reduced herbicide applications.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,324.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $83.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 40 $870.40

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 40 $2,454.40
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #51 - Cover Crop - 1 acre or less

Scenario Description:

Typically a small grain or legume will be planted as a cover crop immediately after harvest of a crop, and will be followed by a crop. This scenario assumes that seed will be 

planted by hand. The cover crop should be allowed to generate as much biomass as possible, without delaying planting of the following crop. The cover crop will typically 

be terminated by mowing or tilling prior to planting the subsequent crop.

Before Situation:

Crops such as sweet corn, vegetables, or root crops are grown and harvested in mid-late fall. Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with rows in some fields 

being hipped for drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, 

winter, and early spring. Over the winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion exceeds soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the fields 

flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of 

tillage practices, low residue crops, and long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements according to Cover Crop (340) are prepared and implemented. Within 10 days after harvest of the crop, fields are planted with a small 

grain or legume cover crop, typically rye or clover. The average field size is 0.25 acres. The cover crop is seeded by hand. No additional fertilizer is applied with the cover 

crop. The cover crop provides soil cover by late fall, throughout the winter, and into the early spring. Runoff and erosion are reduced. Wind erosion is reduced by standing 

residues. The cover crop is terminated with an approved herbicide prior to spring planting as late as feasible to maximize plant biomass production. Over time, soil health 

is improved due to the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity introduced to the cropping system. Cover crop residues left on the surface 

may maximize weed control by increasing allelopathic and mulching effect.

Feature Measure: area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.25

Scenario Total Cost: $130.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $520.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Walk-behind Rototiller 2723 8 hp walk-behind rototiller, one-day rental Day $165.20 0.25 $41.30

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 0.25 $15.34
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #85 - Multi-species Cover Crop per 1000 square feet

Scenario Description:

Typical cover crop is more than one plant species, planted immediately after harvest of a crop and will be followed by a new crop. Cover crops are planted in the 

production bed typically 4000 square feet. Implementation is mostly hand labor or labor intensive. Cover crop is mechanically terminated in urban agricultural sites with 

State and local laws, ordinance and zoning restrictions on use of agrichemicals.

Before Situation:

Crop rotation include specialty crops such sweet corn, vegetables, or root crops are grown and harvested through out growing season and into mid-late fall. Residue 

amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, winter, and early spring. Over the 

winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion exceeds soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the fields flows into streams, water courses 

or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue crops, and 

long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements according to Cover Crop (340) are prepared and implemented. The cover crop is seeded by hand. No additional fertilizer is applied with the 

cover crop. The cover crop provides soil cover at the critical period when cover is needed usually late fall, throughout the winter, and into the early spring. Runoff and 

erosion are reduced. Wind erosion is reduced by standing residues. The cover crop is mechanically terminated as late as feasible to maximize cover crop biomass 

production and meet the planting date needs of the next crop. Over time, soil health is improved due to additions of biomass, improvement of aggregate stability and 

infiltration/aeration.

Feature Measure: Area of Cover Crop Installed

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $257.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $64.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 0.7 $42.95
Practice: 340 - Cover Crop

Scenario: #95 - Mechanical Termination of Cover Crop per 1000 square feet

Scenario Description:

Typical cover crop is more than one plant species, planted immediately after harvest of a crop and will be followed by a new crop. Cover crops are planted in the 

production bed typically 4000 square feet. Implementation is mostly hand labor or labor intensive. Cover crop is mechanically terminated in urban agricultural sites with 

State and local laws, ordinance and zoning restrictions on use of agrichemicals.

Before Situation:

Crop rotation include specialty crops such sweet corn, vegetables, or root crops are grown and harvested through out growing season and into mid-late fall. Residue 

amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, winter, and early spring. Over the 

winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion exceeds soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the fields flows into streams, water courses 

or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue crops, and 

long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements according to Cover Crop (340) are prepared and implemented. The cover crop is seeded by hand. No additional fertilizer is applied with the 

cover crop. The cover crop provides soil cover at the critical period when cover is needed usually late fall, throughout the winter, and into the early spring. Runoff and 

erosion are reduced. Wind erosion is reduced by standing residues. The cover crop is mechanically terminated as late as feasible to maximize cover crop biomass 

production and meet the planting date needs of the next crop. Over time, soil health is improved due to additions of biomass, improvement of aggregate stability and 

infiltration/aeration.

Feature Measure: Area of Cover Crop Installed

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $120.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $30.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 1.5 $40.98

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 0.7 $42.95
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #26 - Native or Introduced Vegetation - Normal Tillage (Organic and Non-Organic)

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation (Native and Introduced) on a site (both organic and non-organic) that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural 

occurrence or a newly constructed conservation practice. Costs include seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and 

fertilizer and lime with application.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from recent natural 

occurrences (fire, flood, wind, etc.) or due to newly constructed conservation practices such as waterways, terraces, water and sediment basins or dams. The exposed 

areas will be subject to wind and water erosion that exceed soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing 

degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented according to the Critical Area Planting (342) standard. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

applying fertilizer, lime and seed. Soil amendments will be incorporated at a depth of four to six inches to improve fertility and ensure establishment of permanent 

vegetative cover. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite damages reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: area seeded

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $427.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $427.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #27 - Native or Introduced Vegetation - Moderate Grading (Organic and Non-Organic)

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation (native and introduced) on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a 

dozer for grading and shaping of small gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and fertilizer and lime with 

application.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences (fire, 

flood, etc.) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and small gullies averaging 1 foot in depth and 1 foot in width that requires some moderate grading 

to prepare a seedbed. Runoff from the area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a 

pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented according to the Critical Area Planting (342) standard.. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

grading and shaping the small gullies with a dozer and then applying fertilizer, lime and seed. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite damages 

reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: area seeded

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $930.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $930.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 1 $40.79

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #28 - Native or Introduced Vegetation - Heavy Grading (Organic and Non-Organic)

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a dozer for grading and 

shaping of moderate to severe gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and fertilizer and lime with application.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences (fire, 

flood, etc.) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and moderate to severe gullies averaging 3 feet in depth and 3 feet in width. Runoff from the area 

flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented according to the Critical Area Planting (342) standard. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

grading and shaping the moderate to severe gullies with a dozer and then applying fertilizer, lime and seed. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite 

damages reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: area seeded

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,324.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,324.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 1 $61.36
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #38 - Caribbean Critical Area Planting Heavy Grading

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a dozer for grading and 

shaping of moderate to severe gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, seeding, and mulching as needed by the unique site.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences 

(fire, flood, etc) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and moderate gullies.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements for 342 Critical Area Planting is prepared for the unique site conditions. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by grading and shaping 

the moderate to severe gullies with a dozer, seedbed preparation, applying fertilizer, lime and seed. The site is stabilized by permanent vegetation which controls soil 

erosion and mitigates offsite sedimentation.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,230.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,230.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 50 $56.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 50 $39.50

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 50 $34.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 1 $80.77

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #39 - Caribbean Critical Area Planting - Normal Tillage

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural occurrence or a newly constructed conservation practice. Costs 

include seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, fertilizer, and mulch.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from recent natural 

occurrences (fire, flood, wind, etc.) or due to newly constructed conservation practices such dams.

After Situation:

The Implementation Requirements with site specific specifications is prepared for each site. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by applying fertilizer, lime, seed, 

and mulch. Vegetation is established, the soil is stabilized.

Feature Measure: Areas treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $579.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $579.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 50 $56.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 50 $39.50

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 50 $34.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 1 $80.77

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 2 $274.00

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #40 - US Virgin Island Critical Area Planting - Normal Tillage

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include tillage for seedbed 

preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and fertilizer and lime with application, and mulch.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences 

(fire, flood, etc) or human disturbance. Runoff from the area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil 

typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared according to the 342 Critical Area Planting standard and implemented. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

applying fertilizer, lime, seed, and mulch. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite damages reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $934.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $934.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 50 $56.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 50 $39.50

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 50 $34.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 1 $80.77

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 600 $600.00
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #41 - US Virgin Islands Critical Area Planting - Heavy Grading

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a dozer for grading and 

shaping of moderate to severe gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop,fertilizer and lime with application, and 

mulch.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences 

(fire, flood, etc) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and moderate to severe gullies averaging 3 feet in depth and 3 feet in width. Runoff from the 

area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared according to the 342 Critical Area Planting standard for the unique site requirements and implemented. This typical 1.0 acre 

critical area is stabilized by grading and shaping the moderate to severe gullies with a dozer and then applying fertilizer, lime, seed, and mulch. The site will be stabilized, 

erosion reduced, and offsite damages reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,859.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,859.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 50 $56.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 50 $39.50

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 50 $34.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 1 $80.77

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 600 $600.00
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #42 - Pacific Island Critical Area Planting

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation (Native or Introduced) on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a 

dozer for grading and shaping of moderate to severe gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and fertilizer and 

lime with application.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences 

(fire, flood, etc) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and moderate to severe gullies averaging 3 feet in depth and 3 feet in width. Runoff from the 

area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared according to the 342 Critical Area Planting standard and implemented. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

grading and shaping the small gullies with a dozer and then applying fertilizer, lime and seed. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite damages 

reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,647.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,647.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2751

Medium Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $192.81 1 $192.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #43 - PIA - Criteria Area Planting

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a (Organic and Non-Organic) site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural occurrence or a newly constructed 

conservation practice. Costs include seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, native grass seed, and trees/shrubs.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from recent natural 

occurrences (fire, flood, wind, etc.) or due to newly constructed conservation practices such as waterways, terraces, water and sediment basins or dams. The exposed 

areas will be subject to wind and water erosion that exceed soil loss tolerances. Runoff from the area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing 

degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared according to the 342 Critical Area Planting Standard and implemented. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

applying seed and some trees and shrubs. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite damages reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,230.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,230.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 50 $389.50

Native and Introduced Perennial 2757

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

High Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $228.68 1 $228.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, Pacific Island 2679 Mobilization cost of materials for sea or air freight services between 

islands.

Pound $0.00 55 $0.00
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #69 - Permanent Cover

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void of vegetation or needs to improve the vegetation to adequately cover the existing site soil to reduce 

particulate matter dust emissions. Costs include seedbed prep with light tillage, seed, fertilizer and lime. Small Scale fields and urban sites have soil conditions limiting 

vegetation growth or sensitive areas that need protection.

Before Situation:

Fields are bare or sparsely vegetated exposed to wind and water erosion. Soil physical of chemical properties limit vegetative growth. Urban site soils contain heavy metal 

contaminants at risk of emissions as particulate dust from field activities.

After Situation:

The Implementation Requirement with site specific instruction is prepared for each treatment site. The establishment of permanent vegetation will stabilize the soil. 

Sensitive areas are protected. Particulate dust is reduced. Wind and water erosion loss is within tolerance levels (T).

Feature Measure: planted area

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $291.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.8 $11.63

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.4 $8.70

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 5 $5.60

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 5 $3.95

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 5 $3.40

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 1 $14.54

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 0.1 $13.70

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 0.4 $35.48
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #74 - Native Vegetation - Moderate Grading

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent native vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a dozer for grading 

and shaping of small gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and fertilizer and lime with application.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences (fire, 

flood, etc.) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and small gullies averaging 1 foot in depth and 1 foot in width that requires some moderate grading 

to prepare a seedbed. Runoff from the area flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a 

pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented according to the Critical Area Planting (342) standard.. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

grading and shaping the small gullies with a dozer and then applying fertilizer, lime and seed. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite damages 

reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: area seeded

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,019.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,019.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Native and Introduced Perennial 2757

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

High Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $228.68 1 $228.68
Practice: 342 - Critical Area Planting

Scenario: #75 - Native Vegetation - Heavy Grading

Scenario Description:

Establishment of permanent vegetation on a site that is void or nearly void of vegetation due to a natural or human disturbance. Costs include a dozer for grading and 

shaping of moderate to severe gullies, seedbed preparation with typical tillage implements, grass/legume seed, companion crop, and fertilizer and lime with application.

Before Situation:

Areas that are void or nearly void of vegetation, resulting in bare soil being exposed to erosive processes. The exposed areas may be caused from natural occurrences (fire, 

flood, etc.) or human disturbance. The exposed areas have visible rills and moderate to severe gullies averaging 3 feet in depth and 3 feet in width. Runoff from the area 

flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. The soil typically has a pH imbalance and low fertility.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented according to the Critical Area Planting (342) standard. This typical 1.0 acre critical area is stabilized by 

grading and shaping the moderate to severe gullies with a dozer and then applying fertilizer, lime and seed. The site will be stabilized, erosion reduced, and offsite 

damages reduced/eliminated.

Feature Measure: area seeded

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,481.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,481.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Native and Introduced Perennial 2757

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

High Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $228.68 1 $228.68
Practice: 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Scenario: #46 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Scenario Description:

Mulch-till is managing the amount, orientation and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the soil surface year round while limiting the soil-disturbing activities 

used to grow crops in systems where the entire field surface is tilled by the planter/drill or tillage tools prior to planting. This practice includes tillage methods commonly 

referred to as mulch tillage, vertical tillage, chiseling and disking, or the use of high disturbance drills without additional tillage. It applies to stubble mulching on summerfallowed land, to tillage for annually planted crops, to tillage for planted crops and to tillage for planting perennial crops. All residue shall be uniformly spread or managed 

over the surface throughout the critical erosion period(s). All residue shall be uniformly distributed over the entire field and not burned or removed. These periods of 

intensive tillage have led to excessive soil loss, often above the soil loss tolerance (T), due to the loss of crop residue on the soil surface. The NRCS erosion prediction 

model(s) will be used to review the farming operations and determine the amount of surface residue to manage throughout the rotation to keep soil loss below T. The 

producer will adopt a reduced till system to meet one or more of the practice purposes.

Before Situation:

Crops such as corn, soybeans, small grains, or cotton are grown and harvested. Fields are tilled immediately following harvest, with rows in some fields being hipped for 

drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall during the fall, winter, and early 

spring. Over the winter residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increase. Sheet, rill and wind erosion occurs. Spring tillage and seedbed preparation 

activities occur as early as possible in the late winter and early spring. Runoff from the fields flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing water quality 

degradation. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of tillage practices, low residue monocultures, and long periods of bare soil.

After Situation:

The Implementation Requirements are prepared following the criteria in the 345 Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till conservation practice standard. Reduced 

till applies to all cropland and other lands where crops are planted. This scenario includes the use of a reduce till systems and high disturbance drills, such as a hoe drill, air 

seeder, or no-till drill that disturbs a large percentage of soil surface during the planting operation. The residue that remains on the soil surface provides soil cover during 

late fall, throughout the winter, and into the early spring. Runoff and water/wind erosion are reduced and water quality improves. Over time, soil health is improved due 

to less tillage, the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity in the cropping system.

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,259.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 100 $2,259.00
Practice: 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Scenario: #47 - Mulch till-Adaptive Management

Scenario Description:

The practice scenario is for the implementation of mulch till in small replicated plots to allow the producer to learn how to manage mulch till on their operation. Scenario 

includes implementing replicated strip trials on a field plot to evaluate, identify and implement a particular mulch till management strategy (e.g., mulch till vs. 

conventional till, two different mulch till systems, etc.). This will be done following the guidelines outlined in Agronomy Technical Note 10 - Adaptive Management.

Before Situation:

Row crops such as corn, soybeans, or cotton are grown and harvested in mid-late fall. Fields are disked immediately following harvest, with rows in some fields being 

hipped for drainage. Residue amounts after harvest average 30% or less, resulting in bare soil being exposed to wind erosion and/or intense rainfall. Over the winter 

residue degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases. Erosion exceeds soil loss tolerances. Spring tillage and seedbed preparation activities occur as early 

as possible in the late winter and early spring prior to planting. Weed control is accomplished primarily through tillage, requiring multiple operations. Runoff from the 

fields flows into streams, water courses or other water bodies causing degradation to the receiving waters. Soil health (soil organic matter) declines over time as a result of 

tillage practices, low residue monocultures, and long periods of bare soil. The producer is considering using mulch till technology, but is unsure how to manage on their 

operation or needs to improve the management of mulch till to be successful.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements and the Adaptive Management Plan is prepared for the plots and implemented. Installation of this scenario will result in establishment of 

mulch till replicated plots to compare to different management strategies for mulch till and other residue management strategies following the guidelines outlined in 

Agronomy Technical Note 10 - Adaptive Management and the Adaptive Management Guidance 345 for Mulch Till. Implementation involves establishing the replicated 

plots to evaluate one or more reduced till management strategies. The plot will consist of at least four replicated plots designed, laid out, managed and evaluated with the 

assistance of a consultant knowledgeable in reduced till management. Results are used to make reduced till management decisions to address erosion, soil health, and 

water quality issues. Yields will be measured and statistically summarized following the procedures in Agronomy Technical Note 10 - Adaptive Management. The yields for 

each plot will be adjusted to the appropriate moisture content and residue levels measured as needed. This practice will be repeated for three years.

Feature Measure: Based on 20 acres

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,288.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,288.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 20 $441.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 10 $225.90

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 20 $2,156.80
Practice: 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Scenario: #48 - Reduced Till Sweep for No Burn/Sweep Beds - Sugarcane Production in Louisiana

Scenario Description:

In this scenario, sugarcane producers will be migrating from a system of burning residue immediately after harvest in the fall and winter to a system that discontinues 

burning and allows residue to be swept into furrows. No burning will take place during the management period. Adopting this system will improve soil quality, reduce 

erosion, and improve air quality in sensitive areas.

Before Situation:

Sugarcane residue is typically burned immediately after harvest in the fall and early winter. After burning, beds may be reshaped with tillage. Any crop residue that is 

present degrades and sediment/nutrient runoff from fields increases during rainfall events. Sheet and rill erosion occurs with visible signs of soil erosion by spring. 

Sensitive receptors near sugarcane fields will be exposed to increased particulate matter and degraded air quality during burning events.

After Situation:

After harvest in the fall or winter, residue will be swept from the sugarcane row tops into the furrows. Residue will not be burned. In the early spring, row reshaping (offbar and lay-by tillage) will occur as necessary. Over time, soil health is improved due to the additional crop residues, ground cover, and soil infiltration.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,418.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 200 $4,418.00
Practice: 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Scenario: #69 - Reduced Tillage less than 0.5 acres

Scenario Description:

Scenario applies to Urban sites less than a 1/2 acre with a rotation of organic or non-organic specialty crops (fruits and vegetable) are produced as part of a conservation 

management system to treat one or more of the following resource concerns: 1) Reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, 2) Maintain or increase soil health and organic matter 

content, 3) Improve soil moisture efficiency, 4) Reduce plant pest pressures. This practice payment effectively implements a reduced tillage system on a typical urban 

specialty crop farm. Cost represents typical situations for organic and non-organic producers.

Before Situation:

This rotation consisted of growing specialty crops. Fields range from nearly flat to B and C slopes. Erosion, soil quality, and pest management are the primary concern. 

Removal of residue from the planted area is common leaving bare soil-residue amounts average 10% or less. Full width tillage is performed prior to planting . Weed 

control is typically by cultivation.

After Situation:

The implementation requirements are written following CPS 345 Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Tillage to treat one or more of the following resource 

concerns on organic and non- organic farms: reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, maintain or increase soil health and organic matter content, improve soil moisture 

efficiency or reduce plant pest pressure. Soil disturbance is minimized with no-till drill or planter use. May include single slot opener and seedling or plug planting 

follows. When pest management requires the removal of crop residue then planting beds are covered with cover crop using the 340 Cover Crop conservation practice. 

Runoff and erosion are reduced below T. No observed rills. Wind erosion reduced by maintaining surface cover. Over time, soil health is improved due to less tillage, the 

additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity in the cropping system.

Feature Measure: area planted

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $524.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $34.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.17 $3.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 0.17 $3.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40
Practice: 348 - Dam, Diversion

Scenario: #1 - Earthfill

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream to provide water in such a manner that it can be controlled and used 

beneficially for irrigation, waterspreading, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, develop renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic 

damaging flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. This structure will address the resource concerns of 

inefficient water use on Irrigated Land, inadequate water for livestock, and inadequate water supply for other beneficial uses.

Before Situation:

This practice applies where a diversion dam is needed as an integral part of an irrigation or water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of soil and 

water resources, Diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse is desirable, The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for which it 

is to be diverted, Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice can be overcome. This standard applies to structures of a permanent 

nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. It does not apply where conservation 

practice standard Diversion (362), Floodwater Diversion (400), Dam (402), or Grade Stabilization Structure (410) would be used. This practice will provide beneficial uses 

for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from one watercourse 

to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows.

After Situation:

An earth fill structure of approximately 3000 cubic yards is built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. This structure will be an integral 

part of an irrigation or water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of soil and water resources, or diversion of water from an unstable watercourse 

to a stable watercourse as needed. The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for which it is to be diverted. Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the 

installation of the practice must be overcome. The sheet pile structure provides beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, 

renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the 

flows. Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as Channel Vegetation (322), Stream Habitat 

Improvement and Management (395), Channel Stabilization (584) will be as appropriate. Any needed head gates or flap gates to control the quantity of water being 

diverted must use Structure for Water Control (587). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Earth Fill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 3,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,441.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 400 $336.00

Motor Grader, 160 HP 1781 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 160 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 150-170. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $145.72 6 $874.32

Scraper, Self Propelled, 14 CY 2306 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 14 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $289.62 24 $6,950.88

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 30 $1,098.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 348 - Dam, Diversion

Scenario: #67 - Rock/Gravel Fill

Scenario Description:

A rock structure with a gravel bedding on geotextile is built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream to provide water in such a manner that it can be 

controlled and used beneficially for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, develop renewable energy systems, or recreation, to divert periodic 

damaging flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. This structure will address the resource concerns of 

inefficient water use on Irrigated Land, inadequate water for livestock, and inadequate water supply for other beneficial 

uses. 

Before Situation:

 This practice applies where a diversion dam is needed as an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of 

soil and water resources, Diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse is desirable, The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for 

which it is to be diverted, Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice can be overcome. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. It does not apply where 

conservation practice standard Diversion (362), Floodwater Diversion (400), Dam (402), or Grade Stabilization Structure (410) would be used. This practice will provide 

beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from 

one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. 

After Situation:

A rock structure of approximately 1050 cubic yards with a gravel bedding of approximately 450 cubic yards on approximately 200 square yards of geotextile, built to divert 

all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream. This standard applies to structures of a permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span 

consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. This structure will be an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to 

facilitate the conservation use of soil and water resources, or diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse as needed. The water supply 

available is adequate for the purpose for which it is to be diverted. Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice must be overcome. The 

rock structure provides beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic 

damaging flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use 

Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as Channel Vegetation (322), Stream Habitat Improvement and Management (395), Channel Stabilization (584) 

will be as appropriate. Any needed head gates or flap gates to control the quantity of water being diverted must use Structure for Water Control 

(587). 

Feature Measure: Fill in Cubic Yards

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $151,888.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $101.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1050 $141,823.50

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 450 $9,679.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 0.5 $385.94
Practice: 348 - Dam, Diversion

Scenario: #69 - Earth Fill-Grouted Rock

Scenario Description:

An earth fill and grouted rock structure built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream to provide water in such a manner that it can be controlled and 

used beneficially for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, develop renewable energy systems, or recreation, to divert periodic damaging 

flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. This structure will address the resource concerns of inefficient 

water use on Irrigated Land, inadequate water for livestock, and inadequate water supply for other beneficial 

uses. 

Before Situation:

 This practice applies where a diversion dam is needed as an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of 

soil and water resources, Diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse is desirable, The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for 

which it is to be diverted, Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice can be overcome. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. It does not apply where 

conservation practice standard Diversion (362), Floodwater Diversion (400), Dam (402), or Grade Stabilization Structure (410) would be used. This practice will provide 

beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from 

one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. 

After Situation:

An earth fill and grouted rock structure of approximately 1050 cubic yards of earth fill with 450 cubic yards of grouted rock is built to divert all or part of the water from a 

waterway or a stream. This standard applies to structures of a permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for 

which the structure is designed. This structure will be an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of 

soil and water resources, or diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse as needed. The water supply available is adequate for the purpose 

for which it is to be diverted. Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice must be overcome. The earth fill and grouted rock structure 

provides beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows 

from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area 

Planting (342). Other associated practices such as Channel Vegetation (322), Stream Habitat Improvement and Management (395), Channel Stabilization (584) will be as 

appropriate. Any needed head gates or flap gates to control the quantity of water being diverted must use Structure for Water Control 

(587). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Total Fill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $69,440.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $46.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Scraper, self propelled, 21 CY 1208 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 21 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $299.09 21 $6,280.89

Rock Riprap, grouted 1757 Grouted Rock Riprap, includes materials, local delivery within 20 miles 

of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $137.79 450 $62,005.50

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 21 $768.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 0.5 $385.94
Practice: 348 - Dam, Diversion

Scenario: #70 - Sheet Pile Structure

Scenario Description:

A sheet pile structure with rock, built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream to provide water in such a manner that it can be controlled and used 

beneficially for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, develop renewable energy systems, or recreation, to divert periodic damaging flows 

from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. This structure will address the resource concerns of inefficient water 

use on Irrigated Land, inadequate water for livestock, and inadequate water supply for other beneficial 

uses. 

Before Situation:

 This practice applies where a diversion dam is needed as an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of 

soil and water resources, Diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse is desirable, The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for 

which it is to be diverted, Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice can be overcome. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. It does not apply where 

conservation practice standard Diversion (362), Floodwater Diversion (400), Dam (402), or Grade Stabilization Structure (410) would be used. This practice will provide 

beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from 

one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. 

After Situation:

A sheet pile structure of approximately 3000 square feet with approximately 660 cubic yards of riprap is built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a 

stream. This standard applies to structures of a permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the 

structure is designed. This structure will be an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of soil and 

water resources, or diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse as needed. The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for which 

it is to be diverted. Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice must be overcome. The sheet pile structure provides beneficial uses for 

irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from one watercourse to 

another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as Channel Vegetation (322), Stream Habitat Improvement and Management (395), Channel Stabilization (584) will be as appropriate. Any 

needed head gates or flap gates to control the quantity of water being diverted must use Structure for Water Control 

(587). 

Feature Measure: Area of sheet pile

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $202,615.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $67.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Sheet piling, steel, 15 ft. 1337 Steel sheet pile, panels or barrier driven up to 15 feet and left in place. 

Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Square Feet $37.25 3000 $111,750.00

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 24 $471.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 24.5 $782.04

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 660 $89,146.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 0.5 $465.97
Practice: 348 - Dam, Diversion

Scenario: #71 - Reinforced Concrete Dam Diversion

Scenario Description:

A reinforced concrete dam diversion structure built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream to provide water in such a manner that it can be 

controlled and used beneficially for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, develop renewable energy systems, or recreation, to divert periodic 

damaging flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. This structure will address the resource concerns of 

inefficient water use on Irrigated Land, inadequate water for livestock, and inadequate water supply for other beneficial 

uses. 

Before Situation:

 This practice applies where a diversion dam is needed as an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of 

soil and water resources, Diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse is desirable, The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for 

which it is to be diverted, Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice can be overcome. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. It does not apply where 

conservation practice standard Diversion (362), Floodwater Diversion (400), Dam (402), or Grade Stabilization Structure (410) would be used. This practice will provide 

beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from 

one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. 

After Situation:

A reinforced concrete dam diversion structure of approximately 1500 cubic yards of concrete is built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream. This 

standard applies to structures of a permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is 

designed. This structure will be an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of soil and water resources, 

or diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse as needed. The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for which it is to be 

diverted. Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice must be overcome. The reinforced concrete structure provides beneficial uses for 

irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from one watercourse to 

another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as Channel Vegetation (322), Stream Habitat Improvement and Management (395), Channel Stabilization (584) will be as appropriate. Any 

needed head gates or flap gates to control the quantity of water being diverted must use Structure for Water Control 

(587). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Total Fill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $897,681.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $598.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 1500 $895,065.00

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 10 $1,846.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10.5 $384.30

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 0.5 $385.94
Practice: 348 - Dam, Diversion

Scenario: #78 - Earth Fill

Scenario Description:

An earth fill built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream to provide water in such a manner that it can be controlled and used beneficially for 

irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, develop renewable energy systems, or recreation, to divert periodic damaging flows from one 

watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. This structure will address the resource concerns of inefficient water use on 

Irrigated Land, inadequate water for livestock, and inadequate water supply for other beneficial 

uses. 

Before Situation:

 This practice applies where a diversion dam is needed as an integral part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of 

soil and water resources, Diversion of water from an unstable watercourse to a stable watercourse is desirable, The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for 

which it is to be diverted, Adverse environmental impacts resulting from the installation of the practice can be overcome. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. It does not apply where 

conservation practice standard Diversion (362), Floodwater Diversion (400), Dam (402), or Grade Stabilization Structure (410) would be used. This practice will provide 

beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from 

one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage potential of the flows. 

After Situation:

An earth fill structure of approximately 1500 cubic yards is built to divert all or part of the water from a waterway or a stream. This standard applies to structures of a 

permanent nature, constructed of materials having an expected life span consistent with the purpose for which the structure is designed. This structure will be an integral 

part of an irrigation system or a water-spreading system designed to facilitate the conservation use of soil and water resources, or diversion of water from an unstable 

watercourse to a stable watercourse as needed. The water supply available is adequate for the purpose for which it is to be diverted. Adverse environmental impacts 

resulting from the installation of the practice must be overcome. The earth fill structure provides beneficial uses for irrigation, livestock water, fire control, municipal or 

industrial uses, renewable energy systems, recreation, or to divert periodic damaging flows from one watercourse to another watercourse thereby reducing the damage 

potential of the flows. Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as Channel Vegetation (322), 

Stream Habitat Improvement and Management (395), Channel Stabilization (584) will be as appropriate. Any needed head gates or flap gates to control the quantity of 

water being diverted must use Structure for Water Control 

(587). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Earth Fill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,474.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Scraper, self propelled, 21 CY 1208 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 21 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $299.09 30 $8,972.70

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 30.5 $1,116.30

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 0.5 $385.94
Practice: 350 - Sediment Basin

Scenario: #1 - Excavated Basin

Scenario Description:

A basin constructed by excavation in an existing drainage way on agricultural, urban, or construction sites for the purpose of trapping sediment to preserve the capacity of 

reservoirs, ditches, canals, diversions, waterways and streams and to prevent undesirable deposition on bottom lands and other developed lands. The sediment basin is 

created by excavation and impounds less than 3 feet against any embankment or spoil. Excavated material is spoiled, not placed in a designed embankment. Earthen 

spillway is constructed as needed. Resource concerns addressed include excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, 

and reduced capacity of conveyances by sediment deposition. Surface water causes the sediment (and potentially pesticides and nutrients) to be transported into the 

riparian areas and water bodies downstream. The typical sediment basin has a drainage area of 5 acres.

Before Situation:

Disturbed areas on agricultural or urban land, or construction sites, have excessive erosion that leads to deterioration of downstream waters due to excessive 

sedimentation. 

After Situation:

'The typical sediment basin is constructed by excavating 900 cubic yards and spreading the spoil outside the pool area using a dozer or similar excavation equipment. 

Sediments will be collected in the basin and the basin will be emptied through an engineered outlet. Associated practice(s): Other practices that may need to be 

implemented along with sediment basin to address all of the site specific resource concerns include: Critical Area Planting (342) and Mulching (484) where necessary to 

prevent erosion following construction activities, Structure for Water Control (587) or Underground Outlet (620) if using a dewatering device, Pond Sealing or Lining 

(521A,521B,521C,521D). 

Feature Measure: Excavated volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 900.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,371.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 3 $303.63

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 900 $3,186.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 3 $109.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 350 - Sediment Basin

Scenario: #2 - Embankment Basin

Scenario Description:

A sediment basin constructed with a low hazard class earthen embankment in an existing drainage way on agricultural, urban, or construction sites for the purpose of 

trapping sediment to preserve the capacity of reservoirs, ditches, canals, diversions, waterways and streams and to prevent undesirable deposition on bottom lands and 

other developed lands. The sediment basin is created by a compacted earth embankment and impounds more than 3 feet of water against the embankment. Resource 

concerns addressed include excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances by 

sediment deposition. Surface water causes the sediment (and potentially pesticides and nutrients) to be transported into the riparian areas and water bodies 

downstream. The typical sediment basin has a drainage area of 5 acres.

Before Situation:

Disturbed areas on agricultural or urban land, or construction sites, have excessive erosion that leads to deterioration of downstream waters due to excessive 

sedimentation. 

After Situation:

The typical sediment basin is an embankment of 1000 cy with excavated material from the pool area used to construct the embankment and auxiliary spillway. The 

embankment will be compacted earthfill. Sediments will be collected in the basin and the basin will be emptied through an engineered outlet. Associated practice(s): 

Other practices that may need to be implemented along with sediment basin to address all of the site specific resource concerns include: Critical Area Planting (342) and 

Mulching (484) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities, Structure for Water Control (587) or Underground Outlet (620) if using a dewatering 

device, Pond Sealing or Lining (521A,521B,521C,521D). 

Feature Measure: Embankment volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,793.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Scraper, self propelled, 21 CY 1208 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 21 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $299.09 9 $2,691.81

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 9 $329.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 350 - Sediment Basin

Scenario: #21 - Excavated volume

Scenario Description:

An excavated sediment basin in an existing drainage way on a farm for purpose of trapping sediment and preserving the capacity of reservoirs, ditches, canals, diversions, 

waterways and streams and to prevent undesirable deposition on bottom lands and other developed lands. The sediment basin is created solely by excavation and 

impounds less than 3 feet against the embankment or spoil. Excavated material is spoiled, not placed in a designed embankment. Earthen spillway is constructed as 

needed. Resource concerns addressed include excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of 

conveyances by sediment deposition. Surface water causes the sediment (and potentially pesticides and nutrients) to be transported into the riparian areas and water 

bodies downstream.

Before Situation:

Disturbed areas on all land uses that have excessive erosion lead to deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation. 

After Situation:

'The typical sediment basin is constructed by excavating 1500 cubic yards and spreading the spoil outside the pool area using a dozer or similar excavation equipment. The 

sediment storage capacity should be a minimum of 900 cubic feet per acre of disturbed area. The detention storage should be a minimum of 3600 cubic feet per acre of 

drainage area. Associated practice(s): Other practices that may need to be implemented along with sediment basin to address all of the site specific resource concerns 

include: Critical Area Planting (342) and Mulching (484) where necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities, Structure for Water Control (587) if using a 

dewatering device, Pond Sealing or Lining (521A,521B,521C,521D). 

Feature Measure: Excavated volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,978.11

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 23 $2,327.83

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 351 - Well Decommissioning

Scenario: #1 - Shallow, Greater than 15 in. dia.

Scenario Description:

A licensed well driller will seal and permanently close an inactive, abandoned, or unusable water well to prevent excess nutrients in surface and groundwater and to 

eliminate pesticides transported to surface and ground water. Well will be cleared of all equipment and materials. Residual water column must be treated with chlorine 

concentration of >50 ppm or according to local, State, Tribal, or Federal regulations. Install fill material (gravel, earth, concrete, and/or bentonite) consisting of 80% 

Gravel, 10% Cement or Bentonite, and 10% Earthfill.

Before Situation:

Shallow well or hand dug well that is greater than 15' diameter and less than 20 feet deep. Assume 30' diameter casing. Well will be cleared of all equipment and 

materials. Residual water column must be treated with chlorine concentration of >50 ppm or according to local, State, Tribal, or Federal regulations. Resource Concern - 

Water Quality Degradation

After Situation:

Procedures and sealing materials shall conform to ASTM D5299 and be compatible with all local, State, Tribal, and Federal requirements. Backfill shall be placed and 

compacted in a manner that minimizes segregation and bulking to prevent surface subsidence. Associated practices: 342 Critical Area Seeding

Feature Measure: Length of well casing

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,346.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $67.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 3 $18.09

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 3 $200.43

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 3 $109.80

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 3 $109.65

Concrete mix, bag 1226 Pre-mixed dry concrete mix in 60 pound bag. Materials only. Each $5.20 3 $15.60

Aggregate, gravel, washed, pea 1331

gravel

Washed and graded pea gravel river stone. Includes materials and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $23.03 2.9 $66.79

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 351 - Well Decommissioning

Scenario: #2 - Shallow, less than 15 in. dia.

Scenario Description:

A licensed well driller will seal and permanently close an inactive, abandoned, or unusable water well to prevent excess nutrients in surface and groundwater and to 

eliminate pesticides transported to surface and ground water. Well will be cleared of all equipment and materials. Residual water column must be treated with chlorine 

concentration of >50 ppm or according to local, State, Tribal, or Federal regulations. Install fill material (gravel, earth, concrete, and/or bentonite) consisting of 60% 

Gravel, 20% Concrete or Bentonite, and 20% Earthfill.

Before Situation:

Shallow well or hand dug well that is less than 15' diameter and less than 80 feet deep. Assume 12' diameter casing. Well will be cleared of all equipment and materials. 

Residual water column must be treated with chlorine concentration of >50 ppm or according to local, State, Tribal, or Federal regulations. Resource Concern - Water 

Quality Degradation

After Situation:

Procedures and sealing materials shall conform to ASTM D5299 and be compatible with all local, State, Tribal, and Federal requirements. Backfill shall be placed and 

compacted in a manner that minimizes segregation and bulking to prevent surface subsidence. Associated practices: 342 Critical Area Seeding.

Feature Measure: Length of well casing

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,269.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 0.6 $3.62

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 5 $182.75

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 1.4 $28.62

Concrete mix, bag 1226 Pre-mixed dry concrete mix in 60 pound bag. Materials only. Each $5.20 4 $20.80

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 351 - Well Decommissioning

Scenario: #3 - Drilled, less than 300 feet

Scenario Description:

A licensed well driller will seal and permanently close an inactive, abandoned, or unusable water well to prevent excess nutrients in surface and groundwater and to 

eliminate pesticides transported to surface and ground water. 

Before Situation:

Drilled well with surface casing that is approximately 250 feet deep. Typically will be a well of less than 6' in diameter, or an artesian well which will require grout pumped 

and well filled from bottom up. Resource Concern - Water Quality Degradation

After Situation:

Procedures and sealing materials shall conform to ASTM D5299 and be compatible with all local, State, Tribal, and Federal requirements. Backfill shall be placed and 

compacted in a manner that minimizes segregation and bulking to prevent surface subsidense. Associated practices: 342 Critical Area Seeding

Feature Measure: Length of well casing

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 250.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,922.87

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 5 $30.15

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Grout pump 1334 Grout pump with tremie pipe. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor 

not included.

Hours $25.13 4 $100.52

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 10 $3,564.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 1.8 $1,294.83

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 351 - Well Decommissioning

Scenario: #4 - Drilled, between 300 and 1,000 feet

Scenario Description:

A licensed well driller will seal and permanently close an inactive, abandoned, or unusable water well to prevent excess nutrients in surface and groundwater and to 

eliminate pesticides transported to surface and ground water.

Before Situation:

Drilled well that is greater than 300 feet deep. Assume 6' diameter casing. Resource Concern - Water Quality Degradation

After Situation:

Procedures and sealing materials shall conform to ASTM D5299 and be compatible with all local, State, Tribal, and Federal requirements. Backfill shall be placed and 

compacted in a manner that minimizes segregation and bulking to prevent surface subsidense. Associated practices: 342 Critical Area Seeding

Feature Measure: Length of well casing

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,310.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 5 $30.15

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Grout pump 1334 Grout pump with tremie pipe. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor 

not included.

Hours $25.13 8 $201.04

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 20 $7,128.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 3.7 $2,661.60

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 351 - Well Decommissioning

Scenario: #5 - Drilled, greater than 1,000 feet

Scenario Description:

A licensed well driller will seal and permanently close an inactive, abandoned, or unusable water well to prevent excess nutrients in surface and groundwater and to 

eliminate pesticides transported to surface and ground water.

Before Situation:

Drilled well that is greater than 300 feet deep. Assume 3' diameter casing. Resource Concern - Water Quality Degradation

After Situation:

Procedures and sealing materials shall conform to ASTM D5299 and be compatible with all local, State, Tribal, and Federal requirements. Backfill shall be placed and 

compacted in a manner that minimizes segregation and bulking to prevent surface subsidense. Associated practices: 342 Critical Area Seeding

Feature Measure: Length of well casing

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,297.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 5 $30.15

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Grout pump 1334 Grout pump with tremie pipe. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor 

not included.

Hours $25.13 16 $402.08

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 40 $14,257.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2.7 $1,942.25

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 353 - Monitoring Well

Scenario: #16 - Borehole, 200 Ft. Depth or Less

Scenario Description:

A vertical borehole designed and installed 200 feet or less in depth to obtain representative groundwater quality samples and hydrogeologic information. The well 

provides controlled access for sampling groundwater near an agricultural waste storage or treatment facility to detect seepage and monitor groundwater quality. 

Installation methods must be in conformance with ASTM D5092. The resource concerns addressed include groundwater contamination and groundwater quality.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to the design, installation, and development of monitoring wells where contamination of groundwater from an agricultural waste storage or 

treatment facility is a concern, detection of seepage and monitoring of groundwater quality is needed, and the facility is a component of an agricultural waste 

management system. 

After Situation:

Typical installation of a vertical borehole for a monitoring well 100 feet deep that provides controlled access to obtain water samples for detecting seepage and 

monitoring of groundwater quality from an agricultural waste storage or treatment facility as a component of an agricultural waste management system. The monitoring 

well is installed by drilling an 8 inch borehole, installing a protective casing, a 2 inch riser pipe, a well screen, and filter pack. The installation method was in conformance 

with ASTM D5092. Vegetation of disturbed areas will be completed under critical area planting (342). Erosion control during construction activities will use Stormwater 

Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Access Control (472), Water Well Decommissioning (351), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Treatment Lagoon 

(359), and Pumping Plant (533).

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,772.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $137.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 25 $8,911.00

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 6 $219.30

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 6 $129.06

Aggregate, gravel, washed, pea 1331

gravel

Washed and graded pea gravel river stone. Includes materials and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $23.03 3 $69.09

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 3 $2,158.05

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Metal, 6 in. 1810 Steel well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $31.20 20 $624.00

Well Screen, plastic, 2 in. 1997 2 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $4.83 25 $120.75

Pipe, PVC, Flush Thread, 2 in. SCH 2295

40

Flush thread PVC riser pipe, 2 inch diameter, schedule 40. Materials 

only.

Feet $3.53 110 $388.30

Centralizer, stainless steel, 2 inch 2298 Stainless steel centralizer to stabilize and center pipe in groundwater 

monitoring and other well installations. Materials only.

Each $31.95 10 $319.50

End Cap, PVC, 2 in. 2301 PVC End cap used in groundwater monitoring and other well 

installations. Materials only.

Each $2.77 1 $2.77

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 353 - Monitoring Well

Scenario: #17 - Borehole, Greater Than 200 Ft. Depth

Scenario Description:

A vertical borehole designed and installed greater than 200 feet deep to obtain representative groundwater quality samples and hydrogeologic information. The well 

provides controlled access for sampling groundwater near an agricultural waste storage or treatment facility to detect seepage and monitor groundwater quality. 

Installation methods must be in conformance with ASTM D5092. The resource concerns addressed include groundwater contamination and groundwater quality.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to the design, installation, and development of monitoring wells where contamination of groundwater from an agricultural waste storage or 

treatment facility is a concern, detection of seepage and monitoring of groundwater quality is needed, and the facility is a component of an agricultural waste 

management system. 

After Situation:

Typical installation of a vertical borehole for a monitoring well 300 feet deep that provides controlled access to obtain water samples for detecting seepage and 

monitoring of groundwater quality from an agricultural waste storage or treatment facility as a component of an agricultural waste management system. The monitoring 

well is installed by drilling an 8 inch borehole, installing a protective casing, a 2 inch monitoring-riser pipe, a well screen, and filter pack. The installation method was in 

conformance with ASTM D5092. Vegetation of disturbed areas will be completed under critical area planting (342). Erosion control during construction activities will use 

Stormwater Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Access Control (472), Water Well Decommissioning (351), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste 

Treatment Lagoon (359), and Pumping Plant (533).

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $41,018.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $136.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 91 $32,436.04

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 12 $438.60

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 12 $258.12

Aggregate, gravel, washed, pea 1331

gravel

Washed and graded pea gravel river stone. Includes materials and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $23.03 6 $138.18

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 6 $4,316.10

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Metal, 6 in. 1810 Steel well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $31.20 20 $624.00

Well Screen, plastic, 2 in. 1997 2 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $4.83 50 $241.50

Pipe, PVC, Flush Thread, 2 in. SCH 2295

40

Flush thread PVC riser pipe, 2 inch diameter, schedule 40. Materials 

only.

Feet $3.53 310 $1,094.30

Centralizer, stainless steel, 2 inch 2298 Stainless steel centralizer to stabilize and center pipe in groundwater 

monitoring and other well installations. Materials only.

Each $31.95 20 $639.00

End Cap, PVC, 2 in. 2301 PVC End cap used in groundwater monitoring and other well 

installations. Materials only.

Each $2.77 1 $2.77

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 355 - Groundwater Testing

Scenario: #1 - Basic Water Test

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario includes the professional testing for nitrates, nitrites, and coliform to confirm well water meets basic water quality standards for consumption by livestock 

or use in irrigation. Water samples are sent to an EPA or state certified laboratory for testing. This scenario is recommended when water quality is suspected to be 

acceptable.

Before Situation:

There are no known contaminants of the well, however, neighboring wells have known issues with nitrates, or coliform, and confirmation of acceptable water quality is 

desired. Manure is spread near to the well, following a nutrient management plan; well contamination is unlikely but possible. 

After Situation:

Water quality results are known.

Feature Measure: No. 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $68.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $68.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 0.5 $11.94

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, 310

Irrigation Suitability

Irrigation water suitability lab analysis. Includes pH, alkalinity, 

carbonates/bicarbonates, EC, dissolved solids, B, Cl, Ca, Mg, Na, SAR, 

and hardness.

Each $56.80 1 $56.80
Practice: 355 - Groundwater Testing

Scenario: #2 - Specialty Water Test

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario includes the professional testing for pesticides, heavy metals, VOC's or other less common substances, in addition to the basic water test items. Tests are 

intended to confirm well water meets water quality standards for consumption by livestock or use in irrigation. Water samples are sent to an EPA or state certified 

laboratory for testing. This scenario is recommended when water quality is suspected to be degraded due to a specialized substance.

Before Situation:

There are no known contaminants of the well, however, neighboring wells have known issues with water quality, and confirmation of acceptable water quality is desired. 

Manure, pesticides, or other potential contaminants have been spread near to the well, in an unmanaged manner; well contamination is possible. 

After Situation:

Water quality results are known. 

Feature Measure: No. 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $279.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $279.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 0.5 $11.94

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, 310

Irrigation Suitability

Irrigation water suitability lab analysis. Includes pH, alkalinity, 

carbonates/bicarbonates, EC, dissolved solids, B, Cl, Ca, Mg, Na, SAR, 

and hardness.

Each $56.80 1 $56.80

Test, singular specialized water 2003

test, well water

Testing for specific pesticide, inorganic chemical or volatile organic not 

included in a basic well suitability test. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $210.57 1 $210.57
Practice: 355 - Groundwater Testing

Scenario: #3 - Full Spectrum Test

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario includes the professional comprehensive testing for all less common substances, to include: pesticides, heavy metals, VOC's or other less common 

substances, in addition to the basic water test items. Tests are intended to confirm well water meets water quality standards for consumption by livestock or use in 

irrigation. Water samples are sent to an EPA or state certified laboratory for testing. This scenario is recommended when water quality is known to be degraded due to a 

specialized substance but thorough analysis is warranted.

Before Situation:

There are no known contaminants of the well, however, neighboring wells have known issues with water quality, and confirmation of acceptable water quality is desired. 

Manure, pesticides, sewage sludge, or other potential contaminants have been spread near to the well, in an unmanaged manner; well contamination is likely. 

After Situation:

Water quality results are known. 

Feature Measure: No. 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $360.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $360.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 0.5 $11.94

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, 310

Irrigation Suitability

Irrigation water suitability lab analysis. Includes pH, alkalinity, 

carbonates/bicarbonates, EC, dissolved solids, B, Cl, Ca, Mg, Na, SAR, 

and hardness.

Each $56.80 1 $56.80

Test, comprehensive specialized 2002

water test, well water

Comprehensive testing for a broad spectrum of pesticides, inorganic 

chemicals or volatile organics not included in a basic well suitability 

test. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $291.40 1 $291.40
Practice: 356 - Dike and Levee

Scenario: #1 - Wetland Dike

Scenario Description:

Construction of a barrier, constructed of an earthen embankment, to control water level. Embankment structure to provide adequate freeboard, allowance for 

settlement, and foundation and embankment stability. Payment includes stripping prior to fill placement and earthfill for embankment. Associated practices include, but 

are not limited to: PS327 Conservation Cover, PS656 Constructed Wetland, PS342 Critical Area Planting, PS378 Ponds, PS382 Fence, PS464 Irrigation Land Levelling, PS500 

Obstruction Removal, PS528 Prescribed Grazing, PS587 Structure for Water Control, PS620 Underground Outlet, PS645 Upland Wildlife Management, PS658 Wetland 

Creation, PS659 Wetland Enhancement, PS657 Wetland Restoration, PS644 Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management. 

Before Situation:

Site requires control of water level for purposes connected with crop production; fish and wildlife managment; or wetland maintenance, improvement, restoration, or 

construction. An adequate quantity of soil suitable for constructing an earthen dike is available at an economical haul distance. 

After Situation:

Water level controlled by a stable earthen structure. Potential hazard to public safety, land or property mitigated; environmental benefit provided. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Earthfill (including volu

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,890.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,582.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1890 $7,314.30

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 481 $404.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 356 - Dike and Levee

Scenario: #2 - Protective dike 6 feet high or less

Scenario Description:

Construction of a barrier 6' or less in height, constructed of an earthen embankment, to control water level. Embankment structure to provide adequate freeboard, 

allowance for settlement, and foundation and embankment stability. Payment includes stripping prior to fill placement, excavation of a core trench, and earthfill for 

embankment. Associated practices include, but are not limited to: PS327 Conservation Cover, PS656 Constructed Wetland, PS342 Critical Area Planting, PS378 Ponds, 

PS382 Fence, PS464 Irrigation Land Levelling, PS500 Obstruction Removal, PS528 Prescribed Grazing, PS587 Structure for Water Control, PS620 Underground Outlet, PS645 

Upland Wildlife Management, PS658 Wetland Creation, PS659 Wetland Enhancement, PS657 Wetland Restoration, PS644 Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management. 

Before Situation:

Site is subject to flooding or indundation which poses a potential hazard to public safety, damage to land or property. Site may also require control of water level for 

purposes connected with crop production; fish and wildlife managment; or wetland maintenance, improvement, restoration, or construction. An adequate quantity of soil 

suitable for constructing an earthen dike is available at an economical haul distance. 

After Situation:

Water level controlled by a stable earthen structure 6' or less in height. Potential hazard to public safety, land or property mitigated; environmental benefit provided. 

Feature Measure: Length of constructed dike

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $29,492.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 5925 $22,929.75

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 444 $372.96

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 1222 $4,325.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 356 - Dike and Levee

Scenario: #3 - Protective Dike >6 feet high

Scenario Description:

Construction of a barrier > 6' in height, constructed of an earthen embankment, to control water level. Embankment structure to provide adequate freeboard, allowance 

for settlement, and foundation and embankment stability. Payment includes stripping prior to fill placement, excavation of a core trench, and earthfill for embankment. 

Associated practices include, but are not limited to: PS327 Conservation Cover, PS656 Constructed Wetland, PS342 Critical Area Planting, PS378 Ponds, PS382 Fence, PS464 

Irrigation Land Levelling, PS500 Obstruction Removal, PS528 Prescribed Grazing, PS587 Structure for Water Control, PS620 Underground Outlet, PS645 Upland Wildlife 

Management, PS658 Wetland Creation, PS659 Wetland Enhancement, PS657 Wetland Restoration, PS644 Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management. 

Before Situation:

Site is subject to flooding or indundation which poses a potential hazard to public safety, damage to land or property. Site may also require control of water level for 

purposes connected with crop production; fish and wildlife managment; or wetland maintenance, improvement, restoration, or construction. An adequate quantity of soil 

suitable for constructing an earthen dike is available at an economical haul distance. 

After Situation:

Water level controlled by a stable earthen structure > 6' in height. Potential hazard to public safety, land or property mitigated; environmental benefit provided. 

Feature Measure: Length of constructed dike

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $43,154.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $43.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 9407 $36,405.09

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 666 $559.44

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 1222 $4,325.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 359 - Waste Treatment Lagoon

Scenario: #1 - Embankment Lagoon

Scenario Description:

A waste treatment lagoon is a component of a waste management system that provides biological treatment of manure and other byproducts of animal agricultural 

operations by reducing the pollution potential. Resource concern addressed is water quality by reducing the pollution potential to surface and groundwater by treating 

and storing liquid waste. Earthen lagoon liners are addressed with another standard. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), 

Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), and Solid/Liquid Waste 

Separation Facility (632).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources. 

After Situation:

A waste treatment lagoon constructed from on-site material provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This 

facility provides the landowner a means of storing and treating waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical 

design size: Design Volume is 455,616 ft3; 100' X 240' (bottom); 3:1 inside and outside side slopes; storage design depth = 12'. Earthwork quantities based on 60% 

excavated depth and 40% fill depth, or excavated material is balanced with the required compacted fill. This scenario does not include any additional efforts required for 

constructing a compacted clay lining in the lagoon. This would be contracted under 521D Pond Sealing or Lining-Compacted Clay Treatment. 

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 455,616.00

Scenario Total Cost: $43,064.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1130 $4,373.10

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1130 $949.20

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 10125 $35,842.50

Materials

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 8 $35.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 359 - Waste Treatment Lagoon

Scenario: #2 - Excavated Lagoon

Scenario Description:

A waste treatment lagoon is a component of a waste management system that provides biological treatment of manure and other byproducts of animal agricultural 

operations by reducing the pollution potential. Resource concern addressed is water quality by reducing the pollution potential to surface and groundwater by treating 

and storing liquid waste. Earthen lagoon liners are addressed with another standard. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), 

Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs and Covers (367), and Solid/Liquid Waste 

Separation Facility (632).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed of. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources. 

After Situation:

A waste treatment lagoon constructed from on-site material provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This 

facility provides the landowner a means of storing and treating waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. Typical 

design size: Design Volume is 455,616 ft3; 100' X 240' (bottom); 3:1 inside and outside side slopes; storage design depth = 12'. Earthwork quantities based on 85% 

excavated depth and 15% fill depth. This scenario does not include any additional efforts required for constructing a compacted clay lining in the lagoon. This would be 

contracted under 521D Pond Sealing or Lining-Compacted Clay Treatment. 

Feature Measure: Design Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 455,616.00

Scenario Total Cost: $57,996.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1130 $4,373.10

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1130 $949.20

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 14343 $50,774.22

Materials

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 8 $35.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 359 - Waste Treatment Lagoon

Scenario: #14 - Waste Treatment Lagoon

Scenario Description:

A waste treatment lagoon is a component of a waste management system that provides biological treatment of manure and other byproducts of animal agricultural 

operations by reducing the pollution potential. Resource concern addressed is water quality by reducing the pollution potential to surface and groundwater by treating 

and storing liquid waste. Earthen lagoon liners are addressed with another standard. This scenario intended for embankment or excavated lagoon. Potential Associated 

Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil (520), Pond Sealing or Lining, Concrete (522), Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner (521), 

Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), and Waste Separation Facility (632).

Before Situation:

Operator presently has a confined animal feeding operation without a waste management system adequate to handle the waste stream leaving the animal production 

facilities. Manure and other agricultural waste by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at 

the source, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources. 

After Situation:

A waste treatment lagoon constructed from on-site material provides an environmentally safe facility for storing manure and other agricultural waste by-products. This 

facility provides the landowner a means of storing and treating waste until it can be utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. 

Excavated material used to build an embankment around the lagoon so this is a combination excavated/embankment design. Typical design size : Design Volume 492,129 

cf = 18,227 cy; 260' X 208' (top); 3:1 inside and outside side slopes; cut/fill ratio = 1.25; total depth = 13' which includes 1' freeboard Feature Measure = Design Volume 

[Operational Volume + emergency volume + freeboard]

Feature Measure: Design Volume (Operational + eme

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 492,129.00

Scenario Total Cost: $97,410.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 9102 $35,224.74

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 8101 $26,976.33

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1389 $1,166.76

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 9125 $32,302.50

Materials

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 8 $35.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 360 - Waste Facility Closure

Scenario: #1 - Decommissioning of Concrete Waste Storage Structure

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the decomissioning of a concrete storage and/or treatment structure or impoundment. The purpose of the practice is to address resource 

concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens in ground and/or surface waters and air quality impacts from greenhouse gases, 

particulate matter and associated precursors, and objectionable odors. This practice scenario does not include payment for the removal and land application of the 

manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge; however, all manure wastes shall be removed and properly land applied in accordance with Nutrient Management (590) prior 

to decomissioning of the structure. Associated practices: Nutrient Management (590), Critical Area Planting (342)

Before Situation:

An existing concrete waste storage structure is no longer functioning correctly or is not being used for its intended purpose. The structure may or may not contain 

manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge. It poses a safety hazard for humans and livestock and is a threat to environmentally sustainability by the potential for impacts 

to water and air quality.

After Situation:

This scenario assumes a concrete waste storage structure with a volume of 48000 cubic feet (200' x 30' x 8') with 8' thick walls. The volume of earthwork (earthfill and/or 

excavation, final grading) required is approximately 75% of the storage volume. Decomissioning of a concrete waste storage structure will consist of collapsing the 

concrete sidewalls to 20% of their original height and filling the storage structure with earthfill. The concrete may be disposed off site if necessary. All manure and 

wastewater nutrient material shall be removed and land applied in accordance with Nutrient Management (590) prior to fill. After collapsing the side walls the remaining 

void will be filled with earthen material from a borrow source. The disturbed areas shall be vegetated in accordance with Critical Area Planting (342) or planted to crops in 

accordance with Nutrient Management (590). Removing and properly utilizing the manure and waste water from the impoundment, demolition of any above grade 

concrete and the fill in of the concrete waste structure will address water quality degradation, air quality impacts and safety hazards The site may also become available 

for another use.

Feature Measure: Cubic Feet of storage to be decomi

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 48,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,405.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1400 $5,418.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 8 $1,054.00

Demolition, concrete 1498 Demolition and disposal of reinforced concrete structures including 

slabs and walls. Includes labor and equipment.

Cubic Yards $11.15 73 $813.95

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 360 - Waste Facility Closure

Scenario: #2 - Earthen Waste Impoundment Closure 

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the decommissioning of an earthen storage and/or treatment structure or impoundment (embankment or excavated type) include any 

basins intended for sediment removal. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and 

pathogens in ground and/or surface waters and air quality impacts from greenhouse gases, particulate matter and associated precursors, and objectionable odors. This 

practice scenario does not include payment for the removal and land application of the manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge; however, all manure wastes shall be 

removed and properly land applied in accordance with Nutrient Management (590) prior to decomissioning of the structure. Associated practices: Nutrient Management 

(590), Critical Area Planting (342)

Before Situation:

The existing manure, runoff and/or wastewaste water lagoon, storage pond or pit is no longer functioning correctly or is not being used for its intended purpose. The 

structure may or may not contain manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge. It poses a safety hazard for humans and livestock and is a threat to environmentally 

sustainability by the potential for impacts to water and air quality.

After Situation:

This scenario assumes a waste storage pond with total storage volume of 100,000 cubic feet over a footprint of 12150 square feet. The volume of earthwork (earthfill 

and excavation) required to breach the embankment and/or fill in the impoundment and perform final grading of the site is approximately 75% of the storage volume. 

The volume of earthwork will include 60% as excavation and 40% as compacted earthfill. An additional excavation of 450 cubic yards is assumed to remove contaminated 

soil below original design over the entire footprint of pond. Structural removal, as necessary, may include the removal and disposal of the synthetic liner, sealing or 

removal and disposal of waste transfer components and other appurtenances associated with closure of the facility. This practice scenario does not include payment for 

the removal and land application of the manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge; however, all manure wastes shall be removed and properly land applied in accordance 

with Nutrient Management (590) prior to decomissioning of the structure. If present, the synthetic liner will be removed and properly disposed of. All inflow devices and 

associated appurtenances will be removed and properly disposed of. The embankment will be breached and the excavation filled in with the embankment material or 

hauled in earthfill. The disturbed areas shall be vegetated in accordance with Critical Area Planting (342) or planted to crops in accordance to Nutrient Management 

(590). Closure of the waste impoundment will address water quality degradation, air quality impacts and safety hazards by removing and properly utilizing the waste 

from the impoundment and earthfill of the structure. The site will also become available for another use.

Feature Measure: Storage Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,198.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 1600 $5,328.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 8 $1,054.00

Spreading, manure sludge 1633 Loading, hauling and spreading manure solids/sludge by ground 

equipment on nearby fields. Includes equipment, power unit and labor 

costs.

Cubic Feet $0.27 12150 $3,280.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 5 $72.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 360 - Waste Facility Closure

Scenario: #3 - Liquid Waste Impoundment Conversion to Fresh Water Storage

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the conversion of an earthen storage and/or treatment structure or impoundment (embankment or excavated type) to fresh water storage. 

The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens in ground and/or surface waters 

and air quality impacts from greenhouse gases, particulate matter and associated precursors, and objectionable odors. This practice scenario does not include payment for 

the removal and land application of the manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge; however, all manure wastes shall be removed and properly land applied in accordance 

with Nutrient Management (590) prior to decomissioning of the structure. Associated practices: Nutrient Management (590), Critical Area Planting (342)

Before Situation:

The existing manure, runoff and/or wastewaste water lagoon, storage pond or pit is no longer functioning correctly or is not being used for its intended purpose. The 

structure may or may not contain manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge. It poses a safety hazard for humans and livestock and is a threat to environmentally 

sustainability by the potential for impacts to water and air quality.

After Situation:

This scenario assumes a waste storage pond with total storage volume of 100,000 cubic feet over a footprint of 12150 square feet. Excavation of 450 cubic yards is 

assumed to remove contaminated soil below original design over the entire footprint of pond. Structural removal, as necessary, may include the removal and disposal of 

the synthetic liner, sealing or removal and disposal of waste transfer components and other appurtenances associated with closure of the facility. This practice scenario 

does not include payment for the removal and land application of the manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge; however, all manure wastes shall be removed and 

properly land applied in accordance with Nutrient Management (590) prior to decomissioning of the structure. If present, the synthetic liner will be removed and properly 

disposed of. All inflow devices and associated appurtenances will be removed and properly disposed of. The embankment will be breached and the excavation filled in 

with the embankment material or hauled in earthfill. The disturbed areas shall be vegetated in accordance with Critical Area Planting (342) or planted to crops in 

accordance to Nutrient Management (590). Closure of the waste impoundment will address water quality degradation, air quality impacts and safety hazards by 

removing and properly utilizing the waste from the impoundment and earthfill of the structure. The site will also become available for another use.

Feature Measure: Cubic feet of structural storage

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,870.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 8 $1,054.00

Spreading, manure sludge 1633 Loading, hauling and spreading manure solids/sludge by ground 

equipment on nearby fields. Includes equipment, power unit and labor 

costs.

Cubic Feet $0.27 12150 $3,280.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 5 $72.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 360 - Waste Facility Closure

Scenario: #13 - Feedlot Closure

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the remediation of the soil on an abandoned feedlot previously used to feed animals on a bare earthen lot. The purpose of the practice is 

to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens in ground and/or surface waters and air quality impacts from 

greenhouse gases, particulate matter and associated precursors, and objectionable odors. Associated practices: Nutrient Management (590), Critical Area Planting (342). 

Before Situation:

The feedlot is abandoned. Vegetation has not been reestablished. The high level of nutrients in the soil is preventing volunteer establishment of native vegetation. 

Rainfall and nutrients on the bare earth feedlot pose a risk to surface water from contaminated runoff or to ground water from seepage into the underlying soils.

After Situation:

This scenario is based on a 3 acre feedlot. Surveys and testing have determined the manure pack averages 8 inches in depth and the level of nutirients in the 4 inches of 

soil below the manure pack is too high to treat insitu with vegetation. Payment under this scenario includes only activities associated with the soil remediation. Soil 

remediation activities in this scenario include removing the nutrient enriched manure pack and soil, an average of 12 inches below the existing surface (130,680 CF). The 

excavated surface will be vegetated with a mix of salt tolerant plants in conformance with Critical Area Planting, Code 342. Nutrient level testing and field application of 

the removed soil shall be performed according to nutrient planning in conformance with Nutrient Management, Code 590. Shaping and crowning of the soil material on 

the disturbed area and critical area seeding will be done to provide drainage, complete the site remediation and establish vegetation. Operation and maintenance of the 

site will include nutrient testing the following year to determine if the soil has been remediated and surface and ground water resource concerns have been addressed. In 

this scenario, samples at four (4) locations will be taken at 6, 12, 18 and 24 inches at the end of Year 1. Fence and feedbunk removal is to be performed under Obstruction 

Removal, Code 500.

Feature Measure: Acres of soil remediated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $45,793.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15,264.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 40 $5,270.00

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 269 $37,283.40

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 40 $1,464.00

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 16 $232.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 360 - Waste Facility Closure

Scenario: #37 - Closure of Underbarn Liquid Waste Impoundment w/concrete liner

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the decommissioning of a concrete waste storage facility which is located under an existing building, which will remain after the waste 

storage structure is closed. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrient and pathogens in 

ground and/or surface waters and air quality impacts from greenhouse gases, particulate matter and associated precursors, and objectionable odors. This practice 

scenario does not include payment for the removal and land application of the manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge; however, all manure wastes shall be removed 

and properly land applied in accordance with Nutrient Management (590) prior to decommissioning of the structure. Associated practices: Nutrient Management (590).

Before Situation:

An existing underbarn concrete waste storage structure is no longer functioning correctly or is not being used for its intended purpose. The structure may or may not 

contain manure, wastewater, slurry and/or sludge. It poses a safety hazard for humans and livestock and is a threat to environmentally sustainability by the potential for 

impacts to water and air quality.

After Situation:

This scenario assumes a concrete waste storage structure, which is located under a building, with the top dimensions of 40 ft x 60 ft .x 8 ft total depth with vertical walls, 

with 10' thick walls. The total structural storage volume of 19,2000 cubic feet. The majority of the walls will remain in place, but a 15' section of wall will be removed as 

well as breaking up 4, 4' x 4' holes to inspect for contamination and removing the beams and slats on the top of the structure. The rest of the floor or slats are broken up, 

but doesn't need to be removed. The structure is then filled with material. All manure and wastewater nutrient material shall be removed and land applied in 

accordance with Nutrient Management (590) prior to fill. Removing and properly utilizing the manure and waste water from the impoundment, demolition of any above 

grade concrete and the fill in of the concrete waste structure will address water quality degradation, air quality impacts and safety hazards The site may also become 

available for another use.

Feature Measure: Cubic feet of total storage

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 19,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $22,423.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 332 $806.76

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 32 $4,216.00

Demolition, concrete 1498 Demolition and disposal of reinforced concrete structures including 

slabs and walls. Includes labor and equipment.

Cubic Yards $11.15 5 $55.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 32 $1,171.20

Materials

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2060

common

Purchased earthfill materials includes both silt or clay. Material only. Cubic Yards $20.29 712 $14,446.48

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 362 - Diversion

Scenario: #1 - Diversion 

Scenario Description:

An earthen channel constructed across long slopes with supporting ridge on lower side, to divert runoff away from farmsteads, gullies, critical erosion areas, construction 

areas or other sensitive areas. Outlet may be waterway, underground outlet. or other suitable outlet. Typical diversion is, 2300 feet long and requires 1 CY excavation per 

LF. Channel my be level or gradient and ridge may be vegetated or farmed. The quantity of excavation and fill is balanced.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contaminated with agricultral wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Diversion is 2300 feet long installed using a dozer and/or scraper. Storm water runoff is diverted away from the area to be protected. Associated practices are Critical Area 

Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), Underground Outlet (620), Mulching (484), and Subsurface Drainage (606).

Feature Measure: Diversion Excavated Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,584.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 710 $596.40

Motor Grader, 160 HP 1781 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 160 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 150-170. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $145.72 4 $582.88

Scraper, Self Propelled, 14 CY 2306 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 14 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $289.62 19 $5,502.78

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 23 $841.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 362 - Diversion

Scenario: #8 - Concrete Curb

Scenario Description:

A reinforced concrete (RC) curb constructed across the slope to divert runoff away from farmsteads, gullies, critical erosion areas, construction areas, agricultural waste 

system, other sensitive areas, or to a waste storage facility. Outlet may be a waterway, underground outlet, or other suitable outlet. Typical 1.0 ft. high, 6 inch thick RC 

curb diversion is approximately 50 feet long with a 2.0 ft wide footing and requires approximately 0.056 CY of RC per linear ft. The curb will be placed on 6' of compacted 

sand. Concrete diversion is necessary due to limited footprint availability.

Before Situation:

Excessive roof runoff or surface runoff that becomes contaminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or 

treated. Also, contaminated lot runoff that needs to be diverted to a waste storage facility so it doesn't pollute surface water or ground water.

After Situation:

The 1.0 ft. high, 6 inch thick RC curb diversion is approximately 50 feet long. 'Clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system 

to minimize the volume of runoff that is contaminated by agricultural waste. Polluted water is diverted to a waste storage facility for proper storage. Associated practices 

are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), Underground Outlet (620), Mulching (484), and Waste Storage Facility (313).

Feature Measure: Length of concrete diversion

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,117.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2.8 $1,670.79

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2.15 $5.22

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 3.7 $22.31

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 1.85 $37.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 366 - Anaerobic Digester

Scenario: #1 - Anaerobic Digester

Scenario Description:

An anaerobic digester can be part of a waste management system. It provides biological treatment of the waste in the absence of oxygen. This process for manure and 

other by-products of animal agricultural operations will manage odors, reduce the net effect of greenhouse gas emissions, and/or reduce pathogens. This scenario is for a 

generic anaerobic digester. Energy generation is not included with this scenario. Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient 

Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roof and Covers (367), Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment Lagoon (359), and 

Waste Storage Facility (313).

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and ground waters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers. The treatment of manure and other agricultural by-products is 

desired in order to manage odors, and/or reduce pathogens.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being treated such that odors are managed and/or pathogens are reduced. Effluent from the digester is disposed of or 

utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. The typical scenario also includes items necessary to maintain mesophylic or thermophylic 

temperatures for bacterial activity (i.e. piping and boiler or other heat source). Typical Design Scenario is each.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,911,720.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,911,720.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 2 $232.78

Equipment Installation

Anaerobic Digester 2478 Concrete anaerobic digester which includes poured walls, floor and top, 

reception and mixing tanks, piping installed in and/or around the 

digester for circulating heated liquid to maintain the necessary 

temperatures for efficient digester operation, piping and collection 

system for biogas, controls for operating digester and boiler system, 

boiler needed to maintain digester temperature, and flare excess gas to 

convert from methane to carbon dioxide. Includes material, labor, and 

equipment.

1 $1,909,600.0

0

$1,909,600.

00

Each

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 366 - Anaerobic Digester

Scenario: #7 - Covered Lagoon/Holding Pond

Scenario Description:

A covered lagoon can be part of a waste management system. It provides biological treatment of the waste in the absence of oxygen. This process for manure and other 

by-products of animal agricultural operations will manage odors, reduce the net effect of greenhouse gas emissions, and/or reduce pathogens. This scenario is for all 

livestock operation sizes. The waste holding/treatment area is covered by waste treatment lagoon (359) or waste storage facility (313) and the cover is addressed under 

roofs and covers (367). Selection of digester type will be based on effluent consistency. Costs for this scenario are only for system controls, gas collection, and flaring 

system. Energy generation is not included with this scenario. Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), 

Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roof and Covers (367), Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment Lagoon (359), and Waste Storage Facility 

(313).

Before Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are not being utilized or controlled in an environmentally safe manner. The wastes are either accumulating at the source, or 

other location, or are being transported but not properly utilized or disposed. This situation poses an environmental threat of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and ground waters, in addition to the use of excessive amounts of fertilizers. The treatment of manure and other agricultural by-products is 

desired in order to manage odors, and/or reduce pathogens.

After Situation:

Manure and other agricultural by-products are being treated such that odors are managed and/or pathogens are reduced. Effluent from the digester is disposed of or 

utilized in a proper manner in accordance with a nutrient management plan. A covered lagoon/holding pond typically has a fexible top installed over an earthen 

storage/treatment facility for the purpose of capturing the biogas. Typical Design Scenario: 1,000 animal units (715 - 1,400 lbs dairy cows).

Feature Measure: Animals Units Contributing to Diges

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $485,322.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $485.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Anaerobic Digester Gas Collection 2484

and Flare System

Piping and collection system for biogas, controls for operating the 

digester system, flare excess gas to convert from methane to carbon 

dioxide Includes material, labor, and equipment.

$484,250.0 1 $484,250.00

0

Each

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 367 - Roofs and Covers

Scenario: #1 - Hoop Structure Roof

Scenario Description:

A flexible membrane or fabric-like roof placed on a steel truss hoop-like supports and supporting foundation. Manure is stored as a liquid in basins, tanks, and as a solid 

on concrete and earthen surfaces. Excess precipitation can cause premature filling of storages or cause nutrients to leach from solid manure piles leading to uncontrolled 

runoff as well as odor issues. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Animal Mortality Facility (316), Composting Facility (317), Roof Runoff Structure 

(558), and Waste Treatment (629). 

Before Situation:

Applicable where the exclusion of precipitation from an animal waste storage and/or treatment facility will improve of an existing or planned system. Manure is stored as 

a liquid in basins, tanks, and as a solid on concrete and earthen surfaces. Excess precipitation can cause premature filling of storages or cause nutrients to leach from solid 

manure piles leading to uncontrolled runoff as well as odor issues. 

After Situation:

A flexible membrane or fabric-like roof placed on a steel truss hoop-like supports and supporting foundation. Roof or cover will be engineered and installed in accordance 

with appropriate building codes and permits. Typical size is 9,000 square feet (36' X 250') and is over an approved animal waste management facility as a component of a 

CNMP. It is designed to prevent precipitation to allow proper management of animal waste streams (manure or compost streams), thus mitigating the negative factors 

from the 'before practice implementation'. 

Feature Measure: Footprint of the building

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 9,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $99,021.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Roof, Hoop Truss Arch Structure, 1668

30-60' wide

Hoop Truss Arch Structure with fabric cover - 30' to 60' width, includes 

materials, equipment, and installation. Does not include foundation 

preparation.

Square Feet $10.79 9000 $97,110.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 367 - Roofs and Covers

Scenario: #2 - Timber or Steel Sheet Roof

Scenario Description:

A timber framed structure without enclosing sidewalls with a timber or steel 'sheet' roof and supporting foundation. Manure is stored as a liquid in basins, tanks, and as a 

solid on concrete and earthen surfaces. Excess precipitation can cause premature filling of storages or cause nutrients to leach from solid manure piles leading to 

uncontrolled runoff as well as odor issues. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Animal Mortality Facility (316), Composting Facility (317), 

Agrichemical Handling Facility (309), Roof Runoff Structure (558), and Waste Treatment (629). 

Before Situation:

Applicable where the exclusion of precipitation from an animal waste storage and/or treatment facility will improve of an existing or planned system. Manure is stored as 

a liquid in basins, tanks, and as a solid on concrete and earthen surfaces. Excess precipitation can cause premature filling of storages or cause nutrients to leach from solid 

manure piles leading to uncontrolled runoff as well as odor issues. 

After Situation:

A timber framed building with a timber or steel 'sheet' roof and supporting foundation. Engineered and installed in accordance with appropriate building codes and 

permits. Typical size is 5,000 square feet and is over an approved animal waste management facility as a component of a CNMP. It is designed to prevent precipitation to 

allow proper management of animal waste streams (manure or compost streams), thus mitigating the negative factors from the 'before practice implementation'. 

Feature Measure: Area under roof

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $74,139.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Roof, Post Frame Building, 30 to 1676

60 ft. wide

Post Frame Building, no sides, - 30 to 60 ft. width. Building sites with 

expected snow loads up to 30 lbs. per square foot and wind exposure in 

semi protected areas (wooded or terrain with numerous closely spaced 

obstructions). Includes materials, shipping, equipment, and 

installation. Does not include foundation preparation.

Square Feet $14.60 5000 $73,000.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 367 - Roofs and Covers

Scenario: #3 - Flexible Membrane Cover Only

Scenario Description:

A fabricated rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible membrane over a waste storage or treatment facility. The membrane will cover the entire surface of a waste storage or treatment 

facility (e.g. waste treatment lagoon or anaerobic digester). Cover will exclude precipitation and/or capture biogas for controlled release for flaring or anaerobic 

digestion. This scenario does not include the flare to convert methane to carbon dioxide. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Treatment 

Lagoon (359), Anaerobic Digester (366), Animal Mortality Facility (316), Composting Facility (317), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Pumping Plant (533), and Waste Treatment 

(629). 

Before Situation:

Applicable where the exclusion of precipitation from an animal waste storage or treatment lagoon will improve the management of an existing or planned system, capture 

and controlled release or flaring of emissions from an existing or planned agricultural waste storage to improve air quality, and/or biogas production and capture for 

energy use are part of the existing or planned animal waste management system.

After Situation:

A 50,000 SF fabricated rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible membrane over a waste storage or treatment facility. The membrane will cover the entire surface of a waste storage or 

treatment facility (e.g. waste treatment lagoon or anaerobic digester). Precipitation is excluded from the animal waste storage or treatment lagoon

Feature Measure: Surface of Membrane

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 50,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $60,587.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 60 $3,445.20

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 60 $3,087.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 200 $4,776.00

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 120 $3,736.80

Materials

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 5555.6 $41,444.78

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 367 - Roofs and Covers

Scenario: #4 - Flex Membrane w/Flare

Scenario Description:

A fabricated rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible membrane over a waste storage or treatment facility. The membrane will cover the entire surface of a waste storage or treatment 

facility (e.g. waste treatment lagoon or anaerobic digester). Cover will exclude precipitation and/or capture biogas for controlled release for flaring or anaerobic 

digestion. This scenario includes the flare to convert methane to carbon dioxide. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Treatment Lagoon 

(359), Anaerobic Digester (366), Animal Mortality Facility (316), Composting Facility (317), Roof Runoff Structure (558), Pumping Plant (533), and Waste Treatment (629). 

Before Situation:

Applicable where the exclusion of precipitation from an animal waste storage or treatment lagoon will improve the management of an existing or planned system, capture 

and controlled release or flaring of emissions from an existing or planned agricultural waste storage to improve air quality, and/or biogas production and capture for 

energy use are part of the existing or planned animal waste management system.

After Situation:

A 50,000 SF fabricated rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible membrane over a waste storage or treatment facility. The membrane will cover the entire surface of a waste storage or 

treatment facility (e.g. waste treatment lagoon or anaerobic digester). This scenario includes the flare to convert methane to carbon dioxide.

Feature Measure: Surface of Membrane

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 50,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $532,337.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 60 $3,445.20

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 60 $3,087.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 200 $4,776.00

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 120 $3,736.80

Materials

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 5555.6 $41,444.78

Covered Lagoon Gas Collection 1664

System

Piping and collection system for biogas. Includes labor and equipment. $398,000.0 1 $398,000.00

0

Each

Covered Lagoon Flare 1666 Flare excess gas to convert from methane to carbon dioxide. Includes 

labor and equipment.

Each $73,750.00 1 $73,750.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #63 - In-House Composting

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists the emergency disposal of poultry mortality by composting in a static windrow. The cause of mortatiy is an event not related to disease. Additional 

carbon based bulking material is added to facilitate aeration and provide a proper C:N ratio. The windrow is turned at least once to go into another heat cycle prior to land 

application. Access is infrequent. This option may not be desirable for sites with limited area, karst topography, and not isolated from of public view. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), 

Access Road (560), Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, or interaction with predators. No plan was formulated 

for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. The typical scenario number of birds to be disposed of is 20,000, 4 pound birds which can be composted 

in-house. Composting requires 1.5 pounds of carbon per pound of bird. There is 0.5 pounds of litter per bird already on site. Wood chips (45 pcf) will be used as the 

additional carbon source. The composting windrow construction operation consists of 2 pieces of equipment and 2 add'l laborers: 1) stockpiling birds and litter in center 

of house; 2) construct 2 windrow bases using carbon material; 3) place carcass/litter mix on bases; 4) cover with carbon material; 5) cap windrows with any remaining 

litter; 6) after first heat cycle remove windrow from house and reconstruct outside house for finishing. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and 

any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,947.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $111.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 28 $1,607.76

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 91 $4,571.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 28 $668.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 28 $871.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 4 $1,227.28
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #64 - Burial

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the on-site burial of animal mortalities resulting from catastrophic events not related to disease. An earthen pit is excavated to contain the 

mortalities, and earth cover is placed over the mortalities to provide protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. The purpose of the practice is 

to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater 

resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or 

Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access 

Road (560), and Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive 

nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from predators 

to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed 

based on the disposal of 25 head of mature cattle located near the area where the cattle have been found. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and 

transport carcasses to the burial location. The scenario also includes a burial trench 4' deep plus 3' additional cover over carcasses. Construct a 6' x 60' (surface 

dimensions) burial site with appropriate cover. Site can handle mortality for 25 mature beef cattle. On site soils can be re-compacted to meet required imperviousness. 

Include 3' overfill or mounding excavated material to provide for settlement of the burial site and divert or minimize offsite runoff. Site to be located out of drainage 

areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,729.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $149.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 94 $313.02

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 12 $910.08

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 94 $141.94

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #65 - Burial of Cattle or Horses

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the on-site burial of cattle or horse mortalities resulting from catastrophic events not related to disease. An earthen pit is excavated to contain 

the mortalities, and earth cover is placed over the mortalities to provide protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), 

Access Road (560), and Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive 

nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from predators 

to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed 

based on the disposal of 5 head averaging 1000 pounds each located near the area where the cattle have been found. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to 

recover and transport carcasses to the burial location. The scenario also includes a burial trench 4' deep plus 2' additional cover over carcasses. Construct a 16'W x 32'L 

(surface dimensions) burial site with appropriate cover. On site soils can be recompacted to meet required imperviousness. Include 2' overfill or mounding excavated 

material to provide for settlement of the burial site and divert or minimize offsite runoff. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to 

spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of head

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,140.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $628.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 78 $259.74

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 5 $379.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #66 - Burial of Swine

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the on-site burial of swine or other similarly sized animal mortalities on a small size operation resulting from catastrophic events not related to 

disease. An earthen pit is excavated to contain the mortalities, and earth cover is placed over the mortalities to provide protection from predators to minimize pathogen 

survival or spreading. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens 

being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or 

Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area 

Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), and Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive 

nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from predators 

to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed 

based on the burial of 1 boar at 450 pounds, 9 sows at 350 pounds each and 8 babies/sow at 12 pounds each in a landfill. The number of head counted are the sows and 

boar (adult swine) at 10 total head. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and transport carcasses to the burial location. The scenario also 

includes a burial trench 4' deep plus 2' additional cover over carcasses. Construct a 16'W x 52'L (surface dimensions) burial site with appropriate cover. On site soils can 

be recompacted to meet required imperviousness. Include 2' overfill or mounding excavated material to provide for settlement of the burial site and divert or minimize 

offsite runoff. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of Adult Head

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,790.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $279.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 78 $259.74

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 3 $227.52

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 40 $60.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #67 - Burial of Goat or Sheep

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the on-site burial of goat, sheep or other similarly sized animal mortalities on a small size operation resulting from catastrophic events not related 

to disease. An earthen pit is excavated to contain the mortalities, and earth cover is placed over the mortalities to provide protection from predators to minimize 

pathogen survival or spreading. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical 

Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), and Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive 

nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from predators 

to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed 

based on the burial of 10 head of 100 pound average weight goats. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and transport carcasses to the burial 

location. The scenario also includes a burial trench 3' deep plus 2' additional cover over carcasses. Construct a 12'W x 29'L (surface dimensions) burial site with 

appropriate cover. On site soils can be recompacted to meet required imperviousness. Include 2' overfill or mounding excavated material to provide for settlement of the 

burial site and divert or minimize offsite runoff. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of Head

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,435.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $243.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 30 $99.90

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 2 $151.68

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 13 $19.63

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #68 - Cattle or Horse Disposal Other Than Burial

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of cattle, horse or other similarly sized animal carcasses by methods other than burial resulting from catastrophic events not related 

to disease. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being 

transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner, other than burial, that prevents non-point source pollution of 

excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from 

predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was 

developed based on the disposal of 5 head averaging 1000 pounds each in a landfill. The scenario includes materials, equipment time and labor to recover and transport 

carcasses to the landfill which is a distance of 35 miles from the farm.

Feature Measure: Number of Head

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,188.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $637.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 5 $379.20

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 8 $446.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 360 $32.40

Landfill Fee, Animal Carcass 2711 Fees charged by a landfill for proper disposal of animal carcass or 

animal debris

Cubic Yards $54.88 4 $219.52

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #69 - Swine Disposal Other Than Burial

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of swine or other similarly sized animal carcasses on a small size operation by methods other than burial resulting from catastrophic 

events not related to disease. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and 

pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical 

Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner, other than burial, that prevents non-point source pollution of 

excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from 

predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was 

developed based on the disposal of 1 boar at 450 pounds, 9 sows at 350 pounds each and 8 babies/sow at 12 pounds each in a landfill. The number of head counted are 

the sows and boar (adult swine) at 10 total head. The scenario includes materials, equipment time and labor to recover and transport the boar, sows and baby carcasses 

to the landfill which is a distance of 35 miles from the farm.

Feature Measure: Number of Adult Head

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,682.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $268.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 3 $227.52

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 6 $334.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Materials

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 308 $27.72

Landfill Fee, Animal Carcass 2711 Fees charged by a landfill for proper disposal of animal carcass or 

animal debris

Cubic Yards $54.88 3 $164.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #70 - Disposal of Goats or Sheep Other Than Burial

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of goat, sheep or other similarly sized animal carcasses on a small size operation by methods other than burial resulting from 

catastrophic events not related to disease. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, 

organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated 

Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner, other than burial, that prevents non-point source pollution of 

excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from 

predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was 

developed based on the disposal of 10 head of goats at an average weight of 100 pounds each in a landfill. All head are counted. The scenario includes materials, 

equipment time and labor to recover and transport the goat carcasses to the landfill which is a distance of 35 miles from the farm.

Feature Measure: Number of Head

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,346.41

Scenario Cost/Unit: $234.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 2 $151.68

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 5 $278.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 270 $24.30

Landfill Fee, Animal Carcass 2711 Fees charged by a landfill for proper disposal of animal carcass or 

animal debris

Cubic Yards $54.88 1 $54.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #71 - Forced Air Incineration

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists the emergency disposal of a large number of livestock by a portable forced air incinerator. The cause of mortality is an event not related to disease. 

Additional carbon based bulking material is added to facilitate aeration and provide a proper C:N ratio. The windrow is turned at least once to go into another heat cycle 

prior to land application. Access is infrequent. This option may not be desirable for sites with limited area, karst topography, and not isolated from of public view. The 

purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into 

surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient 

Management (590), Access Road (560), Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed based on the forced air incineration of the carcasses of 50 head of 

cattle averaging 1000 pound each. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and transport carcasses to a suitable on-site incineration location and the 

rental and operation of a portable forced air incinerator. Wood fuel is also added to assist with the incineration process. The forced air incineration operation consists of 

a tractor plus operator to collect and transport carcasses to the incineration site, a portable forced air incinerator plus operator, and 1 add'l laborer. Site to be located out 

of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,843.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $356.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 50 $3,792.00

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 42 $2,110.08

Incinerator, Portable, Trench 2712

Burner

A portable incinerator used with the development of a trench to 

incinerate animal carcasses or other debris

Week $1,443.33 2 $2,886.66

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 50 $1,194.00

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 94 $2,927.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 56 $2,822.40

Materials

Fuel, propane 1597 20 pound propane bottle, with propane, for ignition of prescribed 

burns. Materials only.

Each $12.61 45 $567.45

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #110 - Disposal At Landfill or Render

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of animal mortality carcasses by landfilling or rendering resulting from catastrophic events not related to disease. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management 

(590), Access Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner, other than burial, that prevents non-point source pollution of 

excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from 

predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers disposal of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was 

developed based on the disposal of 700 finisher swine carcasses at an average weight of 200 pounds each in a landfill. The scenario includes materials, equipment time 

and labor to recover and transport the carcasses to the landfill which is within a 1.5 hour drive of the farm.

Feature Measure: Pounds of mortality

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 140,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,006.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 5 $287.10

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 39 $2,174.25

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 39 $1,427.40

Materials

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 3388 $304.92

Landfill Fee, Animal Carcass 2711 Fees charged by a landfill for proper disposal of animal carcass or 

animal debris

Cubic Yards $54.88 91 $4,994.08

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #160 - Outside Windrow Composting

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists the emergency disposal of a large number of livestock mortality by composting in a static windrow. The cause of mortality is an event not related to 

disease. Additional carbon based bulking material is added to facilitate aeration and provide a proper C:N ratio. The windrow is turned at least once to go into another 

heat cycle prior to land application. Access is infrequent. This option may not be desirable for sites with limited area, karst topography, and not isolated from of public 

view. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being 

transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Fence (382), Critical Area 

Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, or interaction with predators.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. 

An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed based on the composting of 20 head of cattle averaging 1000 

pound each which are moved to a location on-site that is suitable for composting. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and transport carcasses to 

the composting location and the building an turning of the pile at the appropriate time. Composting requires 1.5 pounds of carbon per pound of animal. A small volume 

of green manure or waste feed is available on site. Wood chips (45 pcf) will be used as the carbon source. The composting windrow construction operation consists of 2 

pieces of equipment and 1 add'l laborer: 1) collecting and transporting carcasses to compost site; 2) constructing compost windrow base using carbon material; 3) place 

carcasses 4) cover carcasses with green manure/waste feed; 4) cover with carbon material; 5) cap windrow with any remaining manure/feed; 6) after first heat cycle turn 

the windrow over and reconstruct for finishing. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,767.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $988.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 55 $4,171.20

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 148 $7,435.52

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 55 $1,313.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 55 $1,712.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 18 $907.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 5 $3,859.40
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #185 - National Emergency Shallow Burial of Swine or Cattle

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of animal carcasses by burial in a shallow trench resulting from impacts related to the National Emergency. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, and organics being transported into surface and groundwater 

resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. This scenario has been written to exclude feathered animals since early research has indicated that 

feathered animals do not break down quickly using this method. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road 

(560), Fence (384)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, and organics being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Emergency animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being buried in a shallow trench,that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive 

nutrients, and organics being transported into surface and groundwater resources. The is a new method of mortality disposal recommended by APHIS. 50 animal units 

(50,000 pound) of animal mortality is the maximum allowed for this method. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from predators to minimize 

pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the disposal of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed based on the 

disposal of livestock animal mortality by burial in an 18 inch deep by 8 foot wide trench. A 12 inch thick layer of carbon material is placed in the bottom of the trench. The 

carcass is placed in the trench and covered with 4 inches of carbon material. Then the excavated soil is placed over the entire trench area. The scenario includes 

equipment time and labor to excavate the trench, place carbon layer in the trench bottom, recover and transport carcasses to the shallow burial location, place carcasses 

in the trench and cover with more carbon and the excavated soil. Wood chips (45 pcf) will be used as the carbon source.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,107.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $202.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 4 $527.00

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 13 $985.92

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 120 $6,028.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 13 $310.44

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 13 $404.82

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #201 - National Emergency Composting ??? purchase carbon material and mobilize equipment

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of animal carcasses by composting in a static windrow resulting from impacts related to the National Emergency. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, and organics being transported into surface and groundwater 

resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access 

Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan was formulated for 

catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Emergency animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed by composting in a static windrow that prevents non-point source pollution 

of excessive nutrients, and organics being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from 

predators. An overall plan covers the disposal of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed based on the disposal of 30,000 

pounds of animal mortality by composting on-site. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and transport carcasses to the composting location and the 

building and turning of the pile at the appropriate time. Composting requires 5 cubic yards of carbon material per 1000 pounds of animal. Wood chips (45 pcf) will be 

used as the carbon source.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,644.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $554.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 55 $4,171.20

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 150 $7,536.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 55 $1,313.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 55 $1,712.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #217 - National Emergency Carcass Disposal Other Than Burial, Incineration, Landfill or Render

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of animal carcasses by methods other than burial, incineration, landfill or rendering resulting from impacts related to the National 

Emergency. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being 

transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Emergency animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner, other than burial, incineration, landfill or rendering, that 

prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in 

little to no odors, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the disposal of animals as a result of catastrophic 

mortality events. This typical scenario was developed based on the disposal of livestock carcasses by composting on-site. The scenario assumes the grower will provide all 

equipment and labor and that 50% of the carbon for composting is available on-site.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,965.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $365.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 55 $4,171.20

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 75 $3,768.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 55 $1,313.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 55 $1,712.70
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #233 - National Emergency Disposal At Landfill or Render

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the disposal of animal mortality carcasses by landfilling or rendering resulting from impacts related to the National Emergency. The purpose of 

the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management 

(590), Access Road (560)

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resulting from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a landfill or by rendering, that prevents non-point source pollution of 

excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from 

predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers disposal of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was 

developed based on the disposal of 700 finisher swine carcasses at an average weight of 200 pounds each in a landfill. The scenario includes materials, equipment time 

and labor to recover and transport the carcasses to the landfill which is within a 1.5 hour drive of the farm.

Feature Measure: Pounds of mortality

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 140,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,006.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 5 $287.10

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 39 $2,174.25

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 39 $1,427.40

Materials

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 3388 $304.92

Landfill Fee, Animal Carcass 2711 Fees charged by a landfill for proper disposal of animal carcass or 

animal debris

Cubic Yards $54.88 91 $4,994.08

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #249 - National Emergency In-House Composting

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists the emergency disposal of poultry mortality by composting in a static windrow resulting from impacts related to the National Emergency. Additional 

carbon based bulking material is added to facilitate aeration and provide a proper C:N ratio. The windrow is turned at least once to go into another heat cycle prior to land 

application. Access is infrequent. This option may not be desirable for sites with limited area, karst topography, and not isolated from of public view. The purpose of the 

practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), 

Access Road (560), Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, or interaction with predators. No plan was formulated 

for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into 

surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, complete composting, and protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or 

spreading. An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. The typical scenario consists of in-house composting of animal mortality. Composting requires 

1.5 pounds of carbon per pound of mortatility. There is some manure and bedding already on site. Wood chips (45 pcf) will be used as the additional carbon source. The 

composting windrow construction operation consists of 2 pieces of equipment and 2 add'l laborers: 1) stockpiling carcasses, bedding, and manure in center of house; 2) 

construct 2 windrow bases using carbon material; 3) place carcass/bedding/manure mix on bases; 4) cover with carbon material; 5) cap windrows with any remaining 

bedding/manure; 6) after first heat cycle remove windrow from house and reconstruct outside house for finishing. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water 

diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,315.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $116.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 28 $1,607.76

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 91 $4,571.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 28 $668.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 28 $871.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 4 $1,227.28
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #265 - National Emergency Forced Air Incineration

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists the emergency disposal of a large number of livestock resulting from impacts related to the National Emergency. The cause of mortatiy is an event 

not related to disease. Additional carbon based bulking material is added to facilitate aeration and provide a proper C:N ratio. The windrow is turned at least once to go 

into another heat cycle prior to land application. Access is infrequent. This option may not be desirable for sites with limited area, karst topography, and not isolated from 

of public view. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being 

transported into surface and groundwater resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Nutrient Management (590), Access Road (560), Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Animal mortality is being done in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. An overall plan covers normal and catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed based on the forced air incineration of 50 

animal units of livestock carcasses. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and transport carcasses to a suitable on-site incineration location and the 

rental and operation of a portable forced air incinerator. Wood fuel is also added to assist with the incineration process. The forced air incineration operation consists of a 

tractor plus operator to collect and transport carcasses to the incineration site, a portable forced air incinerator plus operator, and 1 add'l laborer. Site to be located out of 

drainage areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area. The forced air incineration operation consists of a tractor plus operator to collect 

and transport carcasses to the incineration site, a portable forced air incinerator plus operator, and 1 add'l laborer. Site to be located out of drainage areas, off-site water 

diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,843.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $356.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 50 $3,792.00

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 42 $2,110.08

Incinerator, Portable, Trench 2712

Burner

A portable incinerator used with the development of a trench to 

incinerate animal carcasses or other debris

Week $1,443.33 2 $2,886.66

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 50 $1,194.00

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 94 $2,927.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 56 $2,822.40

Materials

Fuel, propane 1597 20 pound propane bottle, with propane, for ignition of prescribed 

burns. Materials only.

Each $12.61 45 $567.45

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 368 - Emergency Animal Mortality Management

Scenario: #281 - National Emergency Burial

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of the on-site burial of animal mortalities resulting from impacts related to the National Emergency. An earthen pit is excavated to contain the 

mortalities, and earth cover is placed over the mortalities to provide protection from predators to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. The purpose of the practice is 

to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater 

resources. Air quality impacts due to odors will also be addressed. Potential Associated Practices: Pond Sealing or Lining, Bentonite Sealant (521C), Pond Sealing or 

Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D), Pond Sealing or Lining, Soil Dispersant (521B), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Access 

Road (560), and Diversion (362).

Before Situation:

Animal mortality disposal is done in a manner that results in non-point source pollution of excessive nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and 

groundwater resources. Improper operation results in odors and spread of pathogens from incomplete composting, incineration, or interaction with predators. No plan 

was formulated for catastrophic mortality events.

After Situation:

Catastrophic Animal mortalities resultuing from causes not related to disease are being disposed in a manner that prevents non-point source pollution of excessive 

nutrients, organics, and pathogens being transported into surface and groundwater resources. Proper operation results in little to no odors, and protection from predators 

to minimize pathogen survival or spreading. An overall plan covers the burial of animals as a result of catastrophic mortality events. This typical scenario was developed 

based on the disposal of 25 head of mature cattle located near the area where the cattle have been found. The scenario includes equipment time and labor to recover and 

transport carcasses to the burial location. The scenario also includes a burial trench 4' deep plus 3' additional cover over carcasses. Construct a 6' x 60' (surface 

dimensions) burial site with appropriate cover. Site can handle mortality for 25 mature beef cattle. On site soils can be recompacted to meet required imperviousness. 

Include 3' overfill or mounding excavated material to provide for settlement of the burial site and divert or minimize offsite runoff. Site to be located out of drainage 

areas, off-site water diverted and any runoff to spread out into a grassed area.

Feature Measure: Number of 1000 lbs Animal Units

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,729.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $149.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 94 $313.02

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 12 $910.08

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 94 $141.94

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 371 - Air Filtration and Scrubbing

Scenario: #3 - Biofilter-Traditional Horizontal

Scenario Description:

Porous filter media is utilized to filter the exhaust from animal confinement facilities to allow microbial activity to reduce objectionable odors. The typical installation is a 

horizontal media bed supported by a treated lumber substructure to allow airflow from multiple fans to be directed beneath and then up through the media. Vertical 

biofilters may also be utilized. The filter media is a combination of wood chips to maintain porosity and compost to provide the microorganisms for the air filtering 

activity. A typical mix ratio would be 80% wood chips and 20% compost. Ventilation system component alterations that may be required to facilitate the biofilter 

application are not included in the cost computation. Payment includes materials, equipment, and labor costs for installing the biofilter. A stabilized area around the 

biofilter is not included and must be addressed through the associated practice of Heavy Use Area Protection (561), if needed. Resource concern: Air ??? Objectionable 

Odors

Before Situation:

The animal confinement facility has an uncontrolled airflow that is causing objectionable odors.

After Situation:

A 32' X 200' horizontal media bed, 20' thick is supported by a treated lumber substructure to allow airflow to be directed beneath and then up through the media is 

installed adjacent to a swine production facility. Exhaust from the facility is directed to flow through the biofilter media to reduce objectionable odors. Maintainace of the 

media bed will be required on a 3-5 year cycle to maintain effectiveness. Associated practices include Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Amendments for Treatment of 

Agricultural Waste (591), Windbreak (380), Waste Storage Facility (313), Composting Facility (317), and CAP-Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan (126).

Feature Measure: Biofilter Media Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 395.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,835.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $55.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 2 $202.42

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 20 $1,044.00

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 9550 $16,808.00

Post, Wood, Untreated, 8-9 inch 1078

dia. X 8 ft.

Wood Post, End 8-9 inch diameter x 8 foot long, untreated. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $37.49 30 $1,124.70

Plywood, 3/4 inch, treated 2363 Treated 4 x 8 ft. sheets of 3/4 inch exterior grade plywood Each $50.38 30 $1,511.40

Biofilter Media Netting 2640 UV stabilized, 3/4 inch polypropylene mesh. Materials and shipping 

only.

Square Feet $0.03 6400 $192.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 371 - Air Filtration and Scrubbing

Scenario: #6 - Biofilter-Single Pit Fan

Scenario Description:

Establishment of a biofilter used to treat the air flow from a single waste pit ventilation fan in instances where control of the exhaust from all pit ventilation fans is not 

needed. Adequate moisture in the wood chip media is maintained for proper growth of bacteria. For each waste pit ventilation fan servicing a waste storage facility that is 

identified as exhausting odorous and/or particulate laden air into the atmosphere, a separate biofilter is installed. Payment includes materials, equipment, and labor costs 

for installing the biofilter. A stabilized area around the biofilter is not included and must be addressed through the associated practice of Heavy Use Area Protection (561), 

if needed. 

Before Situation:

One or more pit ventilation fans of a manure storage facility on a Headquarters site are exhausting odorous and/or particulate laden air into the atmosphere. 

After Situation:

Air Quality resource concerns are addressed through installation of the practice by reducing odors and/or particulate matter emissions. Exhaust from a 24??? waste pit 

ventilation fan is piped to a 16??? wide by 20??? long by 4??? high horizontal biofilter constructed of a formed concrete bin that is filled with wood chip media, capable of 

handling 5,500 cubic feet per minute of airflow. The loading of odor and/or particulates into the air at the production facility is significantly reduced, resulting in a 

substantial improvement in air quality. Ammonia emissions are reduced approximately 60%; hydrogen sulfide about 80% and odor 60 to 80%. Associated practices 

include Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Amendments for Treatment of Agricultural Waste (591), Windbreak (380), Waste Storage Facility (313)and CAP-Comprehensive 

Air Quality Management Plan (126).

Feature Measure: Number of Biofilters Installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,615.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23,615.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 10 $5,274.40

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 11.3 $6,742.82

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 33 $80.19

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 24 $1,205.76

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 11 $236.61

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 0.25 $111.96

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 80 $140.80
Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 36 $74.88

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 7.5 $27.83

Micro Irrigation, surface drip 1488

tubing

Tubing is installed above ground for surface drip irrigation, and 

connections to the supply and flushing laterals. Tubing has emitters 

built in.

Feet $0.35 100 $35.00

Articulated precast concrete block 1906 Articulated precast concrete blocks with a typical thickness of 4.5 to 6 

inches. Includes materials and shipping.

Square Feet $10.26 320 $3,283.20

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 1292 $3,217.08

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #1 - IC Engine Repower, < 50 bhp

Scenario Description:

Older diesel engine replaced with new diesel engine repower (< 50 bhp). The existing diesel engine may be stationary or portable operating an irrigation pump or an 

auxiliary engine providing mechanical function for agricultural/forestry equipment. Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality 

Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices 

and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, 

Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage 

Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management 

Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Landscape.

Before Situation:

An old or inefficient diesel engine powers an irrigation pumping plant or grain dryer fan, or is a backup power generation for a farming operation. The emissions of oxides 

of nitrogen and/or particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR the existing diesel engine is energy inefficient due 

to a conversion of the irrigation system, reduction in required pump capacity, or age of the power unit. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump, off-road agricultural vehicle or other auxillary engine providing a mechanical function for agricultural/forestry equipment.

After Situation:

The repowered diesel engine (< 50 bhp) replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to 

certification of practice completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if a 

concrete pad is not present. For Air Quality: The repower diesel engine will be cleaner-burning and will emit less particulate matter and/or oxides of nitrogen than the 

previous existing engine. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%; the increase in energy efficiency for the modified unit must be supported by an 

energy analysis. 

Feature Measure: Number of Engines Replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,133.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,133.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Motor, IC Engine, 25-49 HP 1428 Most current Tier-level Diesel or Cleaner Engine and required 

appurtenances. 25 to 49 bhp. Materials only.

Horsepower $95.93 30 $2,877.90
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #2 - IC Engine Repower, 50-99 bhp

Scenario Description:

Older diesel engine replaced with new diesel engine repower (50-99 bhp). The existing diesel engine may be stationary or portable operating an irrigation pump or an 

auxiliary engine providing mechanical function for agricultural/forestry equipment. Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality 

Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices 

and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, 

Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage 

Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management 

Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Landscape.

Before Situation:

An old or inefficient diesel engine powers an irrigation pumping plant or grain dryer fan, or is a backup power generation for a farming operation. The emissions of oxides 

of nitrogen and/or particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR the existing diesel engine is energy inefficient due 

to a conversion of the irrigation system, reduction in required pump capacity, or age of the power unit. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump, off-road agricultural vehicle or other auxillary engine providing a mechanical function for agricultural/forestry equipment.

After Situation:

The repowered diesel engine (50-99 bhp) replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to 

certification of practice completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if a 

concrete pad is not present. For Air Quality: The repower diesel engine will be cleaner-burning and will emit less particulate matter and/or oxides of nitrogen than the 

previous existing engine. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%; the increase in energy efficiency for the modified unit must be supported by an 

energy analysis. 

Feature Measure: Number of Engines Replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,627.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14,627.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Motor, IC Engine, 50-99 HP 1429 Most current Tier-level Diesel or Cleaner Engine and required 

appurtenances. 50 to 99 bhp. Materials only.

Horsepower $188.22 75 $14,116.50
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #3 - IC Engine Repower, 100-199 bhp

Scenario Description:

Older diesel engine replaced with new diesel engine repower (100-199 bhp). The existing diesel engine may be stationary or portable operating an irrigation pump or an 

auxiliary engine providing mechanical function for agricultural/forestry equipment. Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality 

Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices 

and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, 

Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage 

Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management 

Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Landscape.

Before Situation:

An old or inefficient diesel engine powers an irrigation pumping plant or grain dryer fan, or is a backup power generation for a farming operation. The emissions of oxides 

of nitrogen and/or particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR the existing diesel engine is energy inefficient due 

to a conversion of the irrigation system, reduction in required pump capacity, or age of the power unit. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump, off-road agricultural vehicle or other auxillary engine providing a mechanical function for agricultural/forestry equipment.

After Situation:

The repowered diesel engine (100-199 bhp) replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior 

to certification of practice completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if 

a concrete pad is not present. For Air Quality: The repower diesel engine will be cleaner-burning and will emit less particulate matter and/or oxides of nitrogen than the 

previous existing engine. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%; the increase in energy efficiency for the modified unit must be supported by an 

energy analysis. 

Feature Measure: Number of Engines Replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,105.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23,105.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Motor, IC Engine, 100-199 HP 1430 Most current Tier-level Diesel or Cleaner Engine and required 

appurtenances. 100 to 199 bhp. Materials only.

Horsepower $150.63 150 $22,594.50
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #5 - Electric Motor in-lieu of IC Engine, < 12 HP 

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing IC engine operating an irrigation well with a new electric motor (< 12 HP). An existing IC engine is stationary or portable (does not propel a vehicle and 

is not an auxiliary IC engine on a vehicle). This replacement provides the greatest emission reductions by eliminating NOx, VOC, and PM emissions from the source. 

Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy 

Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy 

Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater 

Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 

Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - 

Landscape.

Before Situation:

Irrigation pump with IC engine withdraws water from a well and provides water through a center pivot irrigation system. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen and/or 

particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR based on an evaluation of the engine, the pump, the well, and the 

center pivot irrigation system, the engine is less than 50 percent efficient in delivering water to the system. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump. Plant Condition Impact: Poor plant condition and vigor is evident due to a lack of water during critical times in the growing season. Water 

Quality Impacts: Fuel tank and fuel line have potential to cause environmental damage with leaks. The existing internal combustion engine is inefficient in delivering 

water to the system; subsequently, the lack of plant growth and uptake of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus are not being fully utilized and are available to be lost to 

surface and ground waters.

After Situation:

The electric motor replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice 

completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if a concrete pad is not 

present. For Air Quality: The electric motor does not produce any on-farm emissions of oxides of nitrogen or particulate matter, resulting in a substantial emissions 

reduction on the farm. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%. For Plant Condition: Plant condition and vigor will be improved. For Water 

Quality: The potential for environmental damage due to leaks from the tanks and fuel lines has been eliminated. Plant uptake of available nutrients will be increased and 

less nutrients will be lost to surface and ground waters.

Feature Measure: Number of Combustion Units Repla

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,756.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,756.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1172

10 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 10 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1,500.66 1 $1,500.66
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #6 - Electric Motor in-lieu of IC Engine, 12-74 HP 

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing IC engine operating an irrigation well with a new electric motor (12-74 HP). An existing IC engine is stationary or portable (does not propel a vehicle 

and is not an auxiliary IC engine on a vehicle). This replacement provides the greatest emission reductions by eliminating NOx, VOC, and PM emissions from the source. 

Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy 

Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy 

Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater 

Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 

Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - 

Landscape.

Before Situation:

Irrigation pump with IC engine withdraws water from a well and provides water through a center pivot irrigation system. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen and/or 

particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR based on an evaluation of the engine, the pump, the well, and the 

center pivot irrigation system, the engine is less than 50 percent efficient in delivering water to the system. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump. Plant Condition Impact: Poor plant condition and vigor is evident due to a lack of water during critical times in the growing season. Water 

Quality Impacts: Fuel tank and fuel line have potential to cause environmental damage with leaks. The existing internal combustion engine is inefficient in delivering 

water to the system; subsequently, the lack of plant growth and uptake of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus are not being fully utilized and are available to be lost to 

surface and ground waters.

After Situation:

The electric motor replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice 

completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if a concrete pad is not 

present. For Air Quality: The electric motor does not produce any on-farm emissions of oxides of nitrogen or particulate matter, resulting in a substantial emissions 

reduction on the farm. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%. For Plant Condition: Plant condition and vigor will be improved. For Water 

Quality: The potential for environmental damage due to leaks from the tanks and fuel lines has been eliminated. Plant uptake of available nutrients will be increased and 

less nutrients will be lost to surface and ground waters.

Feature Measure: Number of Combustion Units Repla

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,930.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,930.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1173

50 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 50 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $5,547.33 1 $5,547.33
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #7 - Electric Motor in-lieu of IC Engine, 75-149 HP 

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing IC engine operating an irrigation well with a new electric motor (75-149 HP). An existing IC engine is stationary or portable (does not propel a vehicle 

and is not an auxiliary IC engine on a vehicle). This replacement provides the greatest emission reductions by eliminating NOx, VOC, and PM emissions from the source. 

Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy 

Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy 

Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater 

Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 

Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - 

Landscape.

Before Situation:

Irrigation pump with IC engine withdraws water from a well and provides water through a center pivot irrigation system. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen and/or 

particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR based on an evaluation of the engine, the pump, the well, and the 

center pivot irrigation system, the engine is less than 50 percent efficient in delivering water to the system. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump. Plant Condition Impact: Poor plant condition and vigor is evident due to a lack of water during critical times in the growing season. Water 

Quality Impacts: Fuel tank and fuel line have potential to cause environmental damage with leaks. The existing internal combustion engine is inefficient in delivering 

water to the system; subsequently, the lack of plant growth and uptake of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus are not being fully utilized and are available to be lost to 

surface and ground waters.

After Situation:

The electric motor replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice 

completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if a concrete pad is not 

present. For Air Quality: The electric motor does not produce any on-farm emissions of oxides of nitrogen or particulate matter, resulting in a substantial emissions 

reduction on the farm. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%. For Plant Condition: Plant condition and vigor will be improved. For Water 

Quality: The potential for environmental damage due to leaks from the tanks and fuel lines has been eliminated. Plant uptake of available nutrients will be increased and 

less nutrients will be lost to surface and ground waters.

Feature Measure: Number of Combustion Units Repla

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,005.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,005.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1174

100 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 100 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $11,494.85 1 $11,494.85
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #8 - Electric Motor in-lieu of IC Engine, 150-299 HP 

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing IC engine operating an irrigation well with a new electric motor (150-299 HP). An existing IC engine is stationary or portable (does not propel a vehicle 

and is not an auxiliary IC engine on a vehicle). This replacement provides the greatest emission reductions by eliminating NOx, VOC, and PM emissions from the source. 

Resource Concerns: Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality Impacts - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Inefficient Energy 

Use - Equipment and Facilities; Inefficient Energy Use - Farming/Ranching Practices and Field Operations. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy 

Improvement; 533 - Pumping Plant; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater 

Recovery; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 614 - Watering Facility; 642 - Water Well, CAP 126 

Comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, CAP 122 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - Headquarters, and CAP 124 Agricultural Energy Management Plan - 

Landscape.

Before Situation:

Irrigation pump with IC engine withdraws water from a well and provides water through a center pivot irrigation system. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen and/or 

particulate matter from the engine are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern OR based on an evaluation of the engine, the pump, the well, and the 

center pivot irrigation system, the engine is less than 50 percent efficient in delivering water to the system. Air Quality Impacts: The existing internal combustion engine 

emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Inefficient Energy Use: The existing internal combustion engine uses excess fuel to operate an 

existing irrigation pump. Plant Condition Impact: Poor plant condition and vigor is evident due to a lack of water during critical times in the growing season. Water 

Quality Impacts: Fuel tank and fuel line have potential to cause environmental damage with leaks. The existing internal combustion engine is inefficient in delivering 

water to the system; subsequently, the lack of plant growth and uptake of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorus are not being fully utilized and are available to be lost to 

surface and ground waters.

After Situation:

The electric motor replaces the existing older engine; the engine being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice 

completion. The existing engine is supported by a concrete pad; no costs have been included for a new pad. Additional costs may be incurred if a concrete pad is not 

present. For Air Quality: The electric motor does not produce any on-farm emissions of oxides of nitrogen or particulate matter, resulting in a substantial emissions 

reduction on the farm. For Energy: Energy efficiency will be improved by at least 20%. For Plant Condition: Plant condition and vigor will be improved. For Water 

Quality: The potential for environmental damage due to leaks from the tanks and fuel lines has been eliminated. Plant uptake of available nutrients will be increased and 

less nutrients will be lost to surface and ground waters.

Feature Measure: Number of Combustion Units Repla

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $24,655.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24,655.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1175

200 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 200 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $23,378.22 1 $23,378.22
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #10 - Power Unit Modification

Scenario Description:

Modification of an existing power unit (retrofitting or rebuilding) on an irrigation pumping plant that results in energy efficiency increase and meets the requirements in 

CPS 533, Pumping Plant. The increase in energy efficiency for the modified unit must be supported by an energy analysis.

Before Situation:

Inefficient energy use by the existing power unit for an irrigation pumping plant due to a conversion of the irrigation system, reduction in required pump capacity, or age 

of the power unit.

After Situation:

Efficient energy use by the retrofitted or rebuilt power unit meeting the requirements in CPS 533, Pumping Plant, and all current energy efficiency standards for internal 

combustion engines.

Feature Measure: Final size of power unit modified

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,807.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $78.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Motor, IC Engine, 100-199 HP 1430 Most current Tier-level Diesel or Cleaner Engine and required 

appurtenances. 100 to 199 bhp. Materials only.

Horsepower $150.63 75 $11,297.25
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #77 - Mobile IC System/Tractor Replacement, 25-160 bhp

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing smaller (25-160 bhp engine size) high-emitting mobile off-road self-propelled diesel-powered agricultural tractor with a similarly-sized new lower 

emission mobile off-road tractor with a diesel engine that is certified to the newest available U.S. EPA engine TIER rating. The payment rate is based on the engine brake 

horsepower (bhp) rating of the engine in the new tractor and applies if the existing equipment cannot be repowered or retrofitted due to design constraints or operator 

safety. Resource Concerns: Air Quality - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of 

Airborne Reactive Nitrogen.

Before Situation:

An older, higher-emitting diesel-powered tractor is used on an agricultural/forestry operation. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen and/or particulate matter are identified 

to contribute to an air quality resource concern . Air Quality: The existing diesel-powered tractor emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern.

After Situation:

A new lower-emitting mobile off-road diesel tractor replaces the existing higher-emitting system; the tractor being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of 

inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice completion. Air Quality: The new mobile off-road diesel tractor will be cleaner-burning and will emit less oxides 

of nitrogen and/or particulate matter than the previous existing tractor.

Feature Measure: Engine Size (bhp) of Engine in Repla

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $69,047.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $690.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Mobile IC System Replacement 2698

(<=160 bhp)

Difference in costs of ownership and operation between existing mobile 

agricultural IC systems <= 160 bhp with no emissions reduction 

technology or early-generation emissions reduction technology and 

new mobile agricultural IC systems <=160 bhp with latest-tier emissions 

reduction technology.

Brake $690.47 100 $69,047.00

Horse 

Power
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #78 - Mobile IC System/Tractor Replacement, >160 bhp

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing larger (>160 bhp engine size) high-emitting mobile off-road self-propelled diesel-powered agricultural tractor with a similarly-sized new lower emission 

mobile off-road tractor with a diesel engine that is certified to the newest available U.S. EPA engine TIER rating. The payment rate is based on the engine brake 

horsepower (bhp) rating of the engine in the new tractor and applies if the existing equipment cannot be repowered or retrofitted due to design constraints or operator 

safety. Resource Concerns: Air Quality - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of 

Airborne Reactive Nitrogen.

Before Situation:

An older, higher-emitting diesel-powered tractor is used on an agricultural/forestry operation. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen and/or particulate matter are identified 

to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Air Quality: The existing diesel-powered tractor emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern.

After Situation:

A new lower-emitting mobile off-road diesel tractor replaces the existing higher-emitting tractor; the tractor being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of 

inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice completion. Air Quality: The new mobile off-road diesel tractor will be cleaner-burning and will emit less oxides 

of nitrogen and/or particulate matter than the previous existing tractor.

Feature Measure: Engine Size (bhp) of Engine in Repla

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 250.00

Scenario Total Cost: $268,867.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,075.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Mobile IC System Replacement 2699

(>160 bhp)

Difference in costs of ownership and operation between existing mobile 

agricultural IC systems >160 bhp with no emissions reduction 

technology or early-generation emissions reduction technology and 

new mobile agricultural IC systems >160 bhp with latest-tier emissions 

reduction technology.

Brake $1,075.47 250 $268,867.50

Horse 

Power
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #109 - Tractor Replacement, Electric

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing high-emitting mobile off-road self-propelled diesel-powered tractor with a similarly-sized new electric tractor. The payment rate is based on the 

equivalent engine brake horsepower (bhp) rating of the electric motor of the new tractor. Resource Concerns: Air Quality - Emissions of Greenhouse Gases; Air Quality - 

Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of Airborne Reactive Nitrogen.

Before Situation:

An older, higher-emitting diesel-powered tractor is used for agricultural/forestry operations. The emissions of carbon dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, and/or particulate 

matter are identified to contribute to an air quality resource concern. Air Quality: The existing diesel-powered tractor emissions are identified to contribute to an air 

quality and atmospheric change resource concern.

After Situation:

A new electric tractor replaces the existing higher-emitting diesel tractor; the tractor being replaced will be disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to 

certification of practice completion. Air Quality: The new electric tractor will eliminate on-farm combustion emissions from the previous existing tractor.

Feature Measure: Equivalent Engine Size (bhp) of Rep

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 70.00

Scenario Total Cost: $136,333.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,947.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Mobile IC System Replacement- 2871

Electric Tractor

Difference in costs of ownership and operation between existing dieselpowered tractors and new electric tractors.Brake $1,947.62 70 $136,333.40

Horse 

Power
Practice: 372 - Combustion System Improvement

Scenario: #110 - Non-Tractor Mobile Agricultural Equipment IC System Replacement

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing high-emitting mobile off-road self-propelled diesel-powered non-tractor agricultural vehicle (e.g., backhoe, loader, grader, etc.) with a similarly-sized 

new mobile off-road agricultural non-tractor vehicle powered by a lower emission combustion system (e.g., with a diesel engine that is certified to the newest available 

U.S. EPA engine TIER rating) or by an electric motor. The payment rate is based on the engine brake horsepower (bhp) rating or equivalent of the new non-tractor and 

applies if the existing equipment cannot be repowered or retrofitted due to design constraints or operator safety. Non-tractor agricultural vehicles do not include cars or 

trucks. Resource Concerns: Air Quality - Emissions of Ozone Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors; Air Quality - Emissions of 

Airborne Reactive Nitrogen; Air Quality - Emissions of Greenhouse Gases.

Before Situation:

An older, higher-emitting diesel-powered non-tractor agricultural vehicle (e.g., backhoe, loader, grader, etc.) is used to provide a mechanical function for 

agricultural/forestry operations. The emissions of oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter, and/or carbon dioxide are identified to contribute to an air quality and 

atmospheric change resource concern. Non-tractor agricultural vehicles do not include cars or trucks. Air Quality: The existing diesel-powered non-tractor agricultural 

vehicle emissions are identified to contribute to an air quality and atmospheric change resource concern.

After Situation:

A new lower-emitting or non-emitting mobile off-road non-tractor agricultural vehicle replaces the existing higher-emitting system; the system being replaced will be 

disabled and a certificate of inoperability submitted prior to certification of practice completion. Non-tractor agricultural vehicles do not include cars or trucks. Air 

Quality: The new mobile off-road non-tractor agricultural vehicle will be cleaner-burning and will emit less oxides of nitrogen and/or particulate matter than the previous 

existing system.

Feature Measure: Engine Size (bhp) or Equivalent Eng

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $156,640.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,566.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Mobile IC System Replacement- 2872

Other On-Farm Ag Equipment

Difference in costs of ownership and operation between existing onfarm mobile agricultural equipment, such as loaders, backhoes, road 

graders, etc. with no emissions reduction technology or earlygeneration emissions reduction technology and new on-farm mobile 

agricultural equipment with current emissions reduction technology.

Brake $1,566.40 100 $156,640.00

Horse 

Power
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #11 - Water Application - Once per Day

Scenario Description:

Application of water as a dust suppressant once per day to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result in emissions of particulate 

matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled three times per year. Water is applied via truck once per day as a dust suppressant to the unpaved surface with a 

minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application of water. This scenario assumes a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices 

include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical Area Planting, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - 

Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,576.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 132.7 $901.03

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 10 $1,675.90
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #12 - Water Application - Twice per Day

Scenario Description:

Application of water as a dust suppressant twice per day to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result in emissions of particulate 

matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled three times per year. Water is applied via truck twice per day as a dust suppressant to the unpaved surface with a 

minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application of water. This scenario assumes a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices 

include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical Area Planting, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - 

Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,478.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 265.5 $1,802.75

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 10 $1,675.90
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #13 - Water Application - Once per Week

Scenario Description:

Application of water as a dust suppressant once per week to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result in emissions of particulate 

matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled three times per year. Water is applied via truck once per week as a dust suppressant to the unpaved surface with a 

minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application of water. This scenario assumes a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices 

include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical Area Planting, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - 

Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,804.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 18.9 $128.33

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 10 $1,675.90
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #14 - Petroleum-Based Road Oil Application - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Application of a petroleum-based road oil as a dust suppressant once per year to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result in 

emissions of particulate matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled once per year. Petroleum-based road oil is applied via truck once per year as a dust suppressant to the unpaved 

surface with a minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application. This scenario assumes a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated 

practices include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical Area Planting, 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area, 430 - Irrigation 

Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt 

Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,866.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 5 $837.95

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Chemical, dust control, road oil, 1339

petroleum-based

Petroleum-based road oil, such as SC-250 or SC-800. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Gallons $4.27 900 $3,843.00
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #15 - Hygroscopic Salt Application - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Application of a hygroscopic salt (calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, etc.) as a dust suppressant once per year to an unpaved road or other unpaved 

surface where vehicle or wind action may result in emissions of particulate matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of 

Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled once per year. Hygroscopic salt solution is applied via truck once per year as a dust suppressant to the unpaved 

surface with a minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application. Once the dust suppressant is applied, the treated surface is compacted. This scenario assumes 

a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - 

Critical Area Planting, 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation 

Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,420.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Roller, static, smooth, self 1392

propelled

Self propelled smooth drum static roller compactor, typically 1.5 ton 

with 34 inch roller. Equipment cost only. Does not include labor.

Hours $18.38 2 $36.76

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 5 $837.95

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 7 $256.20

Materials

Chemical, dust control, 1340

hygroscopic salt solution

Hygroscopic salt solution, such as calcium chloride, magnesium 

chloride, or sodium chloride. Materials only.

Gallons $1.43 900 $1,287.00
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #16 - Lignosulfonate Application - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Application of an adhesive (i.e., lignosulfonate) as a dust suppressant once per year to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result 

in emissions of particulate matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled once per year. An adhesive, such as lignosulfonate, is applied via truck once per year as a dust suppressant to the 

unpaved surface with a minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application. Once the dust suppressant is applied, the treated surface is compacted. This scenario 

assumes a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 

342 - Critical Area Planting, 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - 

Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,352.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Roller, static, smooth, self 1392

propelled

Self propelled smooth drum static roller compactor, typically 1.5 ton 

with 34 inch roller. Equipment cost only. Does not include labor.

Hours $18.38 2 $36.76

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 5 $837.95

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 7 $256.20

Materials

Chemical, dust control, adhesive, 1341

lignosulfonate

Adhesive, such as lignosulfonate. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $6.91 900 $6,219.00
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #17 - Petroleum Emulsion Application - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Application of a petroleum emulsion as a dust suppressant once per year to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result in 

emissions of particulate matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled once per year. A petroleum emulsion is applied via truck once per year as a dust suppressant to the unpaved surface 

with a minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application. Once the dust suppressant is applied, the treated surface is compacted. This scenario assumes a 

treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical 

Area Planting, 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,760.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Roller, static, smooth, self 1392

propelled

Self propelled smooth drum static roller compactor, typically 1.5 ton 

with 34 inch roller. Equipment cost only. Does not include labor.

Hours $18.38 2 $36.76

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 5 $837.95

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 7 $256.20

Materials

Chemical, dust control, petroleum 1342

emulsion

Petroleum emulsion. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $4.03 900 $3,627.00
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #18 - Polymer Emulsion Application - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Application of a polymer emulsion, such as polyacrylamide (PAM), as a dust suppressant once per year to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind 

action may result in emissions of particulate matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM 

Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled once per year. A polymer emulsion is applied via truck once per year as a dust suppressant to the unpaved surface 

with a minimization of overlap and avoidance of over-application. Once the dust suppressant is applied, the treated surface is compacted. This scenario assumes a 

treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in width. Associated practices include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 450 - Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) 

Application, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical Area Planting, 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - 

Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,758.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Roller, static, smooth, self 1392

propelled

Self propelled smooth drum static roller compactor, typically 1.5 ton 

with 34 inch roller. Equipment cost only. Does not include labor.

Hours $18.38 2 $36.76

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 5 $837.95

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 7 $256.20

Materials

Chemical, dust control, polymer 1343

emulsion, tanker purchase

Polymer emulsion, such as polyacrylamide purchased in bulk. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Gallons $6.25 900 $5,625.00
Practice: 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces

Scenario: #19 - Clay Additive Application - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Application of a clay additive as a dust suppressant once per 5 years to an unpaved road or other unpaved surface where vehicle or wind action may result in emissions of 

particulate matter without treatment. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The operation does not apply a dust suppressant to an unpaved surface. Vehicle or wind action on the untreated unpaved surface results in emissions of particulate 

matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

The unpaved surface is graded and potholes are filled prior to the application. A clay additive is applied once per 5 years as a dust suppressant to the unpaved surface and 

mixed into the surface with a water application and road grading or other mechanical mixing. This scenario assumes a treated area of 1/4 mile in length and 12 feet in 

width. Associated practices include 560 - Access Road, 472 - Access Control, 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection, 342 - Critical Area Planting, 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area, 

430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 516 - Livestock Pipeline, 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 484 - Mulching, and 380 - 

Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation.

Feature Measure: Area Treated

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,760.00

Scenario Total Cost: $48,419.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 8 $1,340.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 1280 $46,784.00
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #1 - Ventilation - Exhaust

Scenario Description:

Replacement of a conventional exhaust fan with high volume, low speed, efficient exhaust fan. Fans being installed should be models previously tested by BESS Lab or the 

Air Movement and Control Association and be in top 20 percentile of fans tested. Practice certification will be through receipts and pictures from the applicant. Typical 

scenario includes the replacement of a 48' fan.

Before Situation:

Inefficient ventilation in an agricultural building. 

After Situation:

High-efficiency ventilation system which reduces energy use. The new ventilation equipment will provide suitable air quality and reduce overall power requirements (kW) 

compared to the existing ventilation system as evidenced in an energy audit. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-

Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources 

and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,224.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,224.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

Materials

Fan, exhaust, 48 in. High Efficiency 1187 48 inch high efficiency exhaust fan, controls, wiring, and associated 

appurtenances. Materials only.

Each $2,129.02 1 $2,129.02
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #2 - Ventilation - HAF

Scenario Description:

A system of fans are installed to create a horizontal air circulation pattern; the new system promotes efficient heat and moisture distribution. In a typical 10,000 square 

foot greenhouse, 10 HAF fans are needed. Fan performance meets Energy Audit efficiency criteria as tested by AMCA or BESS Labs. 

Before Situation:

Inefficent air circulation system in a greenhouse. 

After Situation:

High-efficiency air circulation system which reduces energy use. The new equipment will provide suitable air quality and reduce overall power requirements (kW) 

compared to the existing system as evidenced in an energy audit. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead 

Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be 

addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $263.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $263.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Materials

Fan, HAF, 1/10 to 1/15 HP 1189 High efficiency Horizontal Air Flow (HAF) fan, controls, wiring, and 

associated appurtenances. Materials only.

Each $199.65 1 $199.65
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #3 - Plate Cooler-Small

Scenario Description:

The installation of all stainless steel dual pass plate cooler, type 316 stainless steel. Practice certification will be through receipts and pictures from the applicant. 

Before Situation:

Inefficient milk cooling (minimal pre-cooling of milk before entering the bulk tank). 

After Situation:

High-efficiency milk cooling system which reduces energy use. The new milk cooling equipment will pre-cool the milk and reduce overall power requirements (kW) 

compared to the existing milk cooling system (where most of the cooling was accomplished in the bulk tank) as evidenced in an energy audit. Associated 

practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the 

farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based 

on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,540.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,540.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Plate Cooler, <= 499 gal/hr 1176

capacity

Stainless Steel, dual pass plate cooler with < 499 gallon/hour capacity. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $5,284.93 1 $5,284.93
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #4 - Plate Cooler

Scenario Description:

The installation of all stainless steel dual pass plate cooler, type 316 stainless steel. Practice certification will be through receipts and pictures from the applicant. 

Before Situation:

Inefficient milk cooling (minimal pre-cooling of milk before entering the bulk tank). 

After Situation:

High-efficiency milk cooling system which reduces energy use. The new milk cooling equipment will pre-cool the milk and reduce overall power requirements (kW) 

compared to the existing milk cooling system (where most of the cooling was accomplished in the bulk tank) as evidenced in an energy audit. Associated 

practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the 

farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based 

on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $36,600.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36,600.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Plate Cooler, 750 - 999 gal/hr 1178

capacity

Stainless Steel, dual pass plate cooler with 750 - 999 gallon/hour 

capacity. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $36,345.26 1 $36,345.26
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #5 - Scroll Compressor

Scenario Description:

Install a new scroll compressor, associated controls, wiring, and materials to retrofit an existing refrigeration system. A new condenser is not included in this typical 

scenario. Typical scenario includes a new 5 horsepower scroll compressor.

Before Situation:

Inefficient reciprocating compressor as a key component of the refrigeration system used to cool milk. The compressor is a critical part of a milk cooling system, affecting 

milk quality, system reliability, and system efficiency. 

After Situation:

A more efficient scroll compressor, which will reduce energy use, is evidenced by the energy audit. A comparably sized scroll compressor provides refrigeration capacity at 

a higher efficiency than a reciprocating compressor. Newer scroll compressor systems typically reduce electricity use by 15 to 25 percent compared to reciprocating 

compressors. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is 

inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. 

Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Horse Power

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,479.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $695.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Materials

Scroll Compressor - 5 HP 1183 Scroll compressor, 5 Horsepower, controls, wiring, and appurtenances. 

Materials only.

Each $3,351.35 1 $3,351.35
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #6 - Variable Speed Drive < 5 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of a variable speed drive (VSD) and appurtenances, such as hook-ups, control panels, wiring, control blocks, filters, switches, pads, etc. 

attached to an electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with agricultural production. The motor size, 

on which the VSD is added, is less than 5 HP.

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient when a motor operates at constant speed to satisfy a load which varies as to flow rate and/or pressure requirements.

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a VSD to control electric motors. After the VSD is applied, the motor speed can be 

adjusted to reduce power requirements and better match varied flow or pressure requirements. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other 

activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on nonrenewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of 

ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: HP

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $937.91

Scenario Cost/Unit: $937.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Variable Speed Drive, 1 HP 2347 Variable speed drive for 1 Horsepower electric motor. Does not include 

motor. Materials only.

Each $682.55 1 $682.55
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #7 - Automatic Controller System

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of an automatic control system installed on an existing manually controlled agricultural system. Typical components may include any of the 

following: wiring, sensors, data logger, logic controller, communication link, software, switches, and relay. 

Before Situation:

A manually controlled system is existing in an agricultural facility that causes the inefficient use of energy, as evidenced by an on-farm energy audit.

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of an automatic controller that helps regulates the energy consumption of the 

existing system. Associated practices/activities may include: 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is 

inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. 

Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each system

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,312.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,312.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 1 $646.73

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Switches and Controls, Wi-Fi 1194

system and software

Software with built-in cellular or Wi-Fi communication commonly used 

to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $786.92 1 $786.92
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #8 - Motor Upgrade > 100 HP 

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of replacing an existing electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with 

agricultural production with a new, high efficiency motor. The motor size is larger than 100 horsepower. 

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient with a standard efficiency motor. 

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a NEMA premium efficiency motor. Associated practices/activities may include: 

122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases 

dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting 

the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: HP

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,888.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $159.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1175

200 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 200 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $23,378.22 1 $23,378.22
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #9 - Motor Upgrade 10 - 100 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of replacing an existing electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with 

agricultural production with a new, high efficiency motor. The motor size is equal to or larger than 10 and less than or equal to 100 horsepower. 

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient with a standard efficiency motor. 

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a NEMA premium efficiency motor. Associated practices/activities may include: 

122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases 

dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting 

the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: HP

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,802.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $116.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1173

50 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 50 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $5,547.33 1 $5,547.33
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #10 - Motor Upgrade > 1 and < 10 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of replacing an existing electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with 

agricultural production with a new, high efficiency motor. The motor size is larger than 1 and less than 10 horsepower. 

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient with a standard efficiency motor. 

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a NEMA premium efficiency motor. Associated practices/activities may include: 

122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases 

dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting 

the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: HP

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,164.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $232.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1171

5 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 5 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1,036.42 1 $1,036.42
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #11 - Motor Upgrade <= 1 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of replacing an existing electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with 

agricultural production with a new, high efficiency motor. The motor size is less than or equal to 1 horsepower. 

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient with a standard efficiency motor. 

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a NEMA premium efficiency motor. Associated practices/activities may include: 

122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases 

dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting 

the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Horsepower

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $780.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $780.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Materials

Motor, electric, NEMA Premium, 1169

1 HP

Premium NEMA approved electric motor, 1 Horsepower and all 

required appurtenances. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $652.74 1 $652.74
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #12 - Heating - Radiant Systems

Scenario Description:

Replace 'pancake' Brood Heaters in a poultry house with Radiant Tube Heaters, or similar. Replacement will require the materials and labor to remove existing heating 

system, re-plumb gas lines, cables and wench system to retrofit new radiant tube heaters, and miscellaneous items to complete the installation. Alternate acceptable 

radiant heating systems can include radiant brooders and quad radiant systems as evidenced by the energy audit. The typical scenario consists of the replacement of 28 

brood heaters with 6 radiant tube heaters.

Before Situation:

Inefficient heat distribution equipment, such as conventional 'pancake' brood heaters. The Pancake brooder, mounted at a low installation height, primarily warms the air. 

They provide a one-to-two foot perimeter at desired temperatures around each brooder. A large number of brooders are required to cover a significant percent of floor 

space. As the warmed air naturally rises it loses effectiveness for poultry on the ground.

After Situation:

Energy use is reduced through installation of a more efficient heater. Radiant tube heaters primarily warm objects within a direct line of sight (similar to the sun or an 

open fire). Air temperature is of relatively little importance for a radiant heating systems to be effective. As a result, radiant sytems are typically installed 5' or more above 

the floor level. This height extends the distribution of the radiant heat over a larger area than is possible with pancake style heaters. A roughly 16' diameter radiant heat 

zone heats over twice that of a convential pancake brooder. Associated practices/activities may include: 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead 

Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be 

addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,870.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,811.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Heater, radiant tube 1163 Radiant tube heater rated at 125,000 BTU/hour. Materials only. Each $1,726.55 6 $10,359.30
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #13 - Heating (Building)

Scenario Description:

Replace existing low efficiency heaters with new high efficiency heaters. High-efficiency heating systems include any heating unit with efficiency rating of 80%+ for fuel oil 

and 90%+ for natural gas and propane. Applications may be air heating/building environment and hydronic (boiler) heating for agricultural operations, including under 

bench, or root zone heating. An alternative to heater replacement might be the addition of climate control system and electronic temperature controls with +/- 1 degree 

F differential, to reduce the annual run time. 

Before Situation:

Buildings heated with low efficiency heaters or heaters without proper electronic climate controls

After Situation:

Higher efficiency heaters reduce energy consumption, energy costs, and GHG emissions. These replacement systems can be fueled by natural gas, propane, or fuel oil. 

Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the 

farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on 

a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Rated Heat Output

Scenario Unit: 1,000 BTU/Hour

Scenario Typical Size: 750.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,010.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Heater, high efficiency 1165 Natural gas, propane, or fuel oil unit heater or boiler and venting 

materials. Based on input kBTU/hour. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

1,000 $22.00 750 $16,500.00

BTU/Hour
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #14 - Heating - Attic Heat Recovery vents

Scenario Description:

Install actuated inlets or automatic latching gravity inlets that draw warmer, drier air from the attic to assist with moisture and heat control when ventiliation fans are 

being operated in poultry houses and swine barns. Other systems to transfer heat, as detailed in ASABE S612-compliant energy audit may also be used. Based on a 40' x 

500' poultry house. 

Before Situation:

Heated buildings with attic spaces but no means to transfer heat between the heated space, attic, and ambient (outside) air when relative conditions allow for reduced 

energy use.

After Situation:

Attic vents or inlets allow dry warm air from the attic to cirulated through out the building. By using pre-warmed air from the attic less energy is needed for heating 122-

AgEMP - HQ and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases 

dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting 

the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Each inlet

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 14.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,098.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $221.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 24 $766.08

Materials

Inlet, Attic Ceiling 2414 Poultry house attic air inlets. Includes materials only. Each $166.57 14 $2,331.98
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #40 - Variable Speed Drive > 15 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of a variable speed drive (VSD) and appurtenances, such as hook-ups, control panels, wiring, control blocks, filters, switches, pads, etc. 

attached to an electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with agricultural production. The motor size, 

on which the VSD is added, is larger than 15 HP.

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient when a motor operates at constant speed to satisfy a load which varies as to flow rate and/or pressure requirements.

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a VSD to control electric motors. After the VSD is applied, the motor speed can be 

adjusted to reduce power requirements and better match varied flow or pressure requirements. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other 

activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on nonrenewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of 

ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: HP

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,557.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $131.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Variable Speed Drive, 50 HP 1288 Variable speed drive for 50 Horsepower electric motor. Does not 

include motor. Materials only.

Horsepower $126.05 50 $6,302.50
Practice: 374 - Energy Efficient Agricultural Operation

Scenario: #41 - Variable Speed Drive, 5 - 15 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of a variable speed drive (VSD) and appurtenances, such as hook-ups, control panels, wiring, control blocks, filters, switches, pads, etc. 

attached to an electric motor used to drive a ventilation fan, irrigation pumps, vacuum pump, or similar equipment involved with agricultural production. The motor size, 

on which the VSD is added, is between 5 and 15 HP.

Before Situation:

The system is inefficient when a motor operates at constant speed to satisfy a load which varies as to flow rate and/or pressure requirements.

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of a VSD to control electric motors. After the VSD is applied, the motor speed can be 

adjusted to reduce power requirements and better match varied flow or pressure requirements. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other 

activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on nonrenewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of 

ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: HP

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,025.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $202.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Variable Speed Drive, 10 HP 1287 Variable speed drive for 10 Horsepower electric motor. Does not 

include motor. Materials only.

Horsepower $176.99 10 $1,769.90
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #24 - Manure Harvesting - Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Removal of loose, dry layer of manure from a confined animal operation once per year in addition to a regular annual manure clean-out to reduce emissions of particulate 

matter. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined animal operation conducts a manure clean-out once per year. There is a dry, loose manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting in emissions of 

particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

In addition to the annual manure clean-out, an additional manure harvesting removes the dry, loose manure layer from the pens and working alleys. This manure 

harvesting will leave a 1-2 inch layer of well-compacted manure above the mineral soil and a smooth pen/alley surface to deter ponding of moisture.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $596.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $596.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 3 $227.52

Front End Loader, 95 HP 1327 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 80 to 110. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $60.81 3 $182.43

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #25 - Manure Harvesting - Twice per Year

Scenario Description:

Removal of loose, dry layer of manure from a confined animal operation twice per year in addition to a regular annual manure clean-out to reduce emissions of particulate 

matter. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined animal operation conducts a manure clean-out once per year. There is a dry, loose manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting in emissions of 

particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

In addition to the annual manure clean-out, two additional manure harvesting efforts remove the dry, loose manure layer from the pens and working alleys. Each manure 

harvesting will leave a 1-2 inch layer of well-compacted manure above the mineral soil and a smooth pen/alley surface to deter ponding of moisture.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,193.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,193.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Front End Loader, 95 HP 1327 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 80 to 110. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $60.81 6 $364.86

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #26 - Manure Harvesting - More Than Twice per Year

Scenario Description:

Removal of loose, dry layer of manure from a confined animal operation more than twice per year in addition to a regular annual manure clean-out to reduce emissions of 

particulate matter. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined animal operation conducts a manure clean-out once per year. There is a dry, loose manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting in emissions of 

particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

In addition to the annual manure clean-out, four additional manure harvesting efforts remove the dry, loose manure layer from the pens and working alleys. Each manure 

harvesting will leave a 1-2 inch layer of well-compacted manure above the mineral soil and a smooth pen/alley surface to deter ponding of moisture.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,387.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,387.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 12 $910.08

Front End Loader, 95 HP 1327 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 80 to 110. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $60.81 12 $729.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #30 - Truck-Mounted Mobile Sprinkler System

Scenario Description:

Use of a mobile truck-mounted sprinkler on a confined animal operation. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM 

Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined beef feedlot does not supply additional moisture to the pens and working alleys. There is a dry, loose manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting 

in emissions of particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

A mobile truck-mounted sprinkler is used once per day to provide enough water addition to meet the maximum total daily wet soil evaporation rate, with allowances for 

moisture input to pens/working alleys from animal manure and urine. The application is intended to avoid excessive overlap and over-application of water. Associated 

practices include 436 - Irrigation Reservoir and 533 - Pumping Plant.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,478.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,478.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 365 $2,478.35
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #34 - Manure Harvest-1 per Year and Truck-Mounted Mobile Sprinkler System

Scenario Description:

Combination of removal of loose, dry layer of manure from a confined animal operation once per year in addition to a regular annual manure clean-out and use of a 

mobile truck-mounted sprinkler on a confined animal operation. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM 

Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined animal operation conducts a manure clean-out once per year and does not supply additional moisture to the pens and working alleys. There is a dry, loose 

manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting in emissions of particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

In addition to the annual manure clean-out, an additional manure harvesting removes the dry, loose manure layer from the pens and working alleys. This manure 

harvesting will leave a 1-2 inch layer of well-compacted manure above the mineral soil and a smooth pen/alley surface to deter ponding of moisture. A mobile truckmounted sprinkler is used once per day to provide enough water addition to meet the maximum total daily wet soil evaporation rate, with allowances for moisture input 

to pens/working alleys from animal manure and urine. The application is intended to avoid excessive overlap and over-application of water. Associated practices include 

436 - Irrigation Reservoir and 533 - Pumping Plant.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,075.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,075.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 365 $2,478.35

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 3 $227.52

Front End Loader, 95 HP 1327 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 80 to 110. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $60.81 3 $182.43

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #38 - Manure Harvest-2 per Year and Truck-Mounted Mobile Sprinkler System

Scenario Description:

Combination of removal of loose, dry layer of manure from a confined animal operation twice per year in addition to a regular annual manure clean-out and use of a 

mobile truck-mounted sprinkler on a confined animal operation. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM 

Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined animal operation conducts a manure clean-out once per year and does not supply additional moisture to the pens and working alleys. There is a dry, loose 

manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting in emissions of particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

In addition to the annual manure clean-out, two additional manure harvesting efforts remove the dry, loose manure layer from the pens and working alleys. Each manure 

harvesting will leave a 1-2 inch layer of well-compacted manure above the mineral soil and a smooth pen/alley surface to deter ponding of moisture. A mobile truckmounted sprinkler is used once per day to provide enough water addition to meet the maximum total daily wet soil evaporation rate, with allowances for moisture input 

to pens/working alleys from animal manure and urine. The application is intended to avoid excessive overlap and over-application of water. Associated practices include 

436 - Irrigation Reservoir and 533 - Pumping Plant.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,671.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,671.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 365 $2,478.35

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Front End Loader, 95 HP 1327 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 80 to 110. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $60.81 6 $364.86

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68
Practice: 375 - Dust Management for Pen Surfaces

Scenario: #42 - Manure Harvest-More Than Twice per Year and Truck-Mounted Mobile Sprinkler System

Scenario Description:

Combination of removal of loose, dry layer of manure from a confined animal operation more than twice per year in addition to a regular annual manure clean-out and 

use of a mobile truck-mounted sprinkler on a confined animal operation. The specific resource concern to be addressed is 'Emissions of Particulate Matter (PM) and PM 

Precursors'.

Before Situation:

The confined animal operation conducts a manure clean-out once per year and does not supply additional moisture to the pens and working alleys. There is a dry, loose 

manure layer that is subject to animal activity resulting in emissions of particulate matter that cause nuisance dusting or visibility-impairment effects.

After Situation:

In addition to the annual manure clean-out, four additional manure harvesting efforts remove the dry, loose manure layer from the pens and working alleys. Each manure 

harvesting will leave a 1-2 inch layer of well-compacted manure above the mineral soil and a smooth pen/alley surface to deter ponding of moisture. A mobile truckmounted sprinkler is used once per day to provide enough water addition to meet the maximum total daily wet soil evaporation rate, with allowances for moisture input 

to pens/working alleys from animal manure and urine. The application is intended to avoid excessive overlap and over-application of water. Associated practices include 

436 - Irrigation Reservoir and 533 - Pumping Plant.

Feature Measure: Pen Surface Area, Including Workin

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,865.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,865.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 365 $2,478.35

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 12 $910.08

Front End Loader, 95 HP 1327 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 80 to 110. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $60.81 12 $729.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36
Practice: 376 - Field Operations Emissions Reduction

Scenario: #10 - One Crop Per Year

Scenario Description:

Utilize equipment that allows a reduction the tillage passes through the field and/or utilizing precision GPS guidance to avoid overlap of tillage passes across the field per 

crop rotation. Utilize this practice only when residue and STIR values cannot be achieved when using the associated Residue and Tillage Management Practices: 329-No Till 

or 345-Reduced Tillage to achieve the air quality resource concern. The resource concern addressed is improved air quality by reducing combustion and particulate matter 

emissions primarily from tillage. The scenario costs are based on tillage equipment or GPS technology to achieve reduce tillage passes.

Before Situation:

Tillage operations are performed individually; each operation requiring a tractor or other power implement to pull the tillage implement resulting in multiple passes across 

the field. Each pass creates soil particulate emissions contributing to the area's reduced air quality.

After Situation:

A 376 Field Operations Emissions Reduction plan is developed showing a reduced number of field passes across the field (benchmark system compared to the planned 

system). As a result of applying this practice soil particulates in the air is reduced and the area's air quality is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $883.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 40 $883.60
Practice: 376 - Field Operations Emissions Reduction

Scenario: #11 - Two Crops Per Year

Scenario Description:

Utilize equipment that allows a reduction of tillage passes through the field and/or precision GPS guidance to avoid overlap of tillage passes across the field per crop 

rotation. Utilize this practice only when residue and STIR values cannot be achieved when using the associated Residue and Tillage Management Practices: 329-No Till or 

345-Reduced Tillage to achieve the air quality resource concern. The resource concern addressed is improved air quality by reducing combustion and particulate matter 

emissions primarily from tillage. The scenario cost is based on tillage equipment or GPS technology to achieve reduced tillage passes.

Before Situation:

Tillage operations are performed individually; each operation requiring a tractor or other power implement to pull the tillage implement resulting in multiple passes across 

the field. Each pass creates soil particulate emissions contributing to the area's reduced air quality.

After Situation:

A 376 Field Operations Emissions Reduction plan is developed showing a reduced number of field passes across the field (benchmark system compared to the planned 

system). As a result of applying this practice soil particulates in the air is reduced and the area's air quality is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,767.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $44.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 80 $1,767.20
Practice: 376 - Field Operations Emissions Reduction

Scenario: #15 - Clean Harvest Technology

Scenario Description:

Utilize harvest equipment that is peer reviewed and documented to reduce PM10 by 30% or greater. Technology may also have beneficial impacts to reducing PM2.5 and 

NOx emissions. Qualified technologies will be approved by the State Air Quality Specialist or equivalent. Typical technologies can include sweepers, harvesters, or other 

equipment designed to reduce the output of dust, particulates, or other emissions affecting air quality. Equipment could be self-propelled or powered by another 

unit. Resource Concern addressed is to improve air quality by reducing combustion and particulate matter emissions.

Before Situation:

Harvest operations are performed individually; each operation requiring a combustion system and other implement used to harvest crops.

After Situation:

The use of clean harvest technology may reduce the total number of passes, reduce the amount of emissions, or meet or prevent a state or local emission regulation. 

These reductions can come from fossil fuel combustion or particulate matter emissions.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $0.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Dust Control, Pickup or Haul, 2695

Almond Nuts

Nut harvesting is a multi-step process. Nuts are shaken from the tree 

and allowed to dry, then swept into windrows, raked, and finally picked 

up for transport. This component covers 100 percent of the operation 

to pick up the nuts, select the percentage of the cost associated with 

using dust suppression management to decrease the particulate matter 

generated by at least 30%.

Acres $0.00 40 $0.00
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #1 - Excavated Pond

Scenario Description:

A low-hazard water impoundment structure on agricultural lands to maintain or improve water quality and to provide water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire 

control, developing renewable energy systems and other related uses. Pond is created solely by excavation and impounds less than 3 feet against the embankment or 

spoil. Excavated material is spoiled, not placed in a designed embankment. Earthen spillway is constructed as needed. The resource concerns addressed include 

inadequate livestock water, excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances by 

sediment deposition. 

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or developing renewable energy systems, and other related uses, 

and to maintain or improve water quality. Failure of the pond will not result in loss of life; damage to homes, commercial or industrial buildings, main highways, or 

railroads; or in interruption of the use or service of public utilities. 

After Situation:

The typical pond is constructed by excavating 3000 cubic yards and spreading the spoil outside the pool area using a dozer or similar excavation equipment. Vegetation 

will be completed under critical area planting (342). Other associated practices include 382, 516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Excavated Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 3,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,660.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 3000 $7,290.00

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 6 $607.26

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #2 - Excavated Pond with Embankment

Scenario Description:

A low-hazard water impoundment structure on agricultural lands to maintain or improve water quality and to provide water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire 

control, developing renewable energy systems, and other related uses. Pond is created by excavation and impounds more than 3 feet against the embankment or spoil. 

Excavated material is placed in a designed embankment. Earthen spillway is constructed as needed, a trickle tube (pipe) is installed. The resource concerns addressed 

include inadequate livestock water, excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances 

by sediment deposition. 

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or developing renewable energy systems, and other related uses, 

and to maintain or improve water quality. Failure of the pond will not result in loss of life; damage to homes, commercial or industrial buildings, main highways, or 

railroads; or in interruption of the use or service of public utilities. 

After Situation:

The typical pond is constructed by excavating 3000 cubic yards and utilizing 1000 cy of excavated material to construct a compacted embankment which is approximately 

800 CY. Vegetation will be completed under critical area planting (342). Other associated practices include 382, 516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Excavated Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 3,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,440.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2000 $4,860.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 34 $205.02

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 800 $2,664.00

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 10 $1,012.10

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 333 $789.21

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #3 - Embankment Pond, No Principal Spillway

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam without a principal spillway pipe. A low flow tube of 6 inches or less to reduce saturation of the auxiliary spillway is installed, anti-seep 

collars or sand diaphragms are not required. A low-hazard water impoundment structure on agricultural land to maintain or improve water quality and to provide water 

for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire control, developing renewable energy systems and other related uses. An earthen embankment will be constructed with a 

principle spillway conduit and earthen auxiliary spillway, as designed. The resource concerns addressed include inadequate livestock water, excessive suspended sediment 

and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances by sediment deposition. Cost estimate is based upon a typical 

amount of earthfill of 2,000 cubic yards, and 80 feet of pipe 6' PVC pipe. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns 

such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or developing renewable energy systems, and other related uses, 

and to maintain or improve water quality. Failure of the embankment will not result in loss of life or damages of any kind.

After Situation:

The typical pond is constructed by excavating the pool area, constructing the auxiliary spillway, preparing the foundation as designed, and creating an embankment. The 

product of the storage times the effective height of the dam is less than 3,000. The effective height of the dam is 35 feet or less. The earthen auxiliary spillway will be 

constructed as designed. No principle spillway pipe will be used. Vegetation will be completed under critical area planting (342). Other associated practices include 382, 

516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,173.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 100 $243.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2000 $7,740.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 5 $658.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 5 $159.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 262.4 $621.89

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #4 - Embankment Pond with less than 24 inch Pipe

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principle spillway pipe less than 24 inches, anti-seep collars or sand diaphragm, and excavated plunge pool basin. A low-hazard water 

impoundment structure on agricultural land to maintain or improve water quality and to provide water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire control, developing 

renewable energy systems and other related uses. An earthen embankment will be constructed with a principle spillway conduit and earthen auxiliary spillway, as 

designed. The resource concerns addressed include inadequate livestock water, excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment 

deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances by sediment deposition. Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 4000 cubic yards, 90 feet of 18' PVC, 

pipe with a canopy inlet, and 3 cubic yard sand diaphragm. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil 

erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or developing renewable energy systems, and other related uses, 

and to maintain or improve water quality. Failure of the embankment will not result in loss of life or damages of any kind.

After Situation:

The typical pond is constructed by excavating the pool area, constructing the auxiliary spillway, preparing the foundation as designed, and creating an embankment. The 

product of the storage times the effective height of the dam is less than 3,000. The effective height of the dam is 35 feet or less. The earthen auxiliary spillway will be 

constructed as designed, and a principle spillway pipe will be used. Vegetation will be completed under critical area planting (342). Other associated practices include 382, 

516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $27,296.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 4000 $15,480.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 29 $174.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 18 $574.56

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 22 $2,971.54

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 1778.4 $4,428.22

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #5 - Embankment Pond with greater than or equal to 24 inch Pipe

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principle spillway pipe greater than or equal to 24 inches, anti-seep collars or sand diaphragm, and excavated plunge pool basin. A 

low-hazard water impoundment structure on agricultural land to maintain or improve water quality and to provide water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire 

control, developing renewable energy systems and other related uses. An earthen embankment will be constructed with a principle spillway conduit and earthen auxiliary 

spillway, as designed. The resource concerns addressed include inadequate livestock water, excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from 

sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances by sediment deposition. Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 10,000 cubic 

yards,corrugated metal drop inlet principle spillway with a 11 ft riser and 100 ft barrel, and 82 Square feet of anti-seep collars. Disturbed areas are protected with 

permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or developing renewable energy systems, and other related uses, 

and to maintain or improve water quality. Failure of the embankment will not result in loss of life or damages of any kind.

After Situation:

The typical pond is constructed by excavating the pool area, constructing the auxiliary spillway, preparing the foundation as designed, and creating an embankment. The 

product of the storage times the effective height of the dam is less than 3,000. The effective height of the dam is 35 feet or less. The earthen auxiliary spillway will be 

constructed as designed, and a principle spillway pipe will be used. Vegetation will be completed under critical area planting (342). Other associated practices include 382, 

516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 10,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $56,292.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 10000 $38,700.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 129 $777.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 13 $1,712.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 36 $1,149.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 46 $6,213.22

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 3792 $3,640.32

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #63 - Rehab Embankment Pond, No Principal Spillway

Scenario Description:

A previously built earthen embankment dam without a principal spillway pipe. Previously installed structure had embankment failure and is in need of embankment 

repair. Cost estimate is based upon shaping side slopes, and replacing with a typical amount of earthfill of 500 cubic yards. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent 

vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the structure and impacting the downstream water quality. Also presents a safety hazard of potential dam 

failure. Erosion from the gullies is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,423.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 450 $1,093.50

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 500 $1,935.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #64 - Rehab Embankment Pond, With Principal Spillway

Scenario Description:

A previously built earthen embankment dam witha principal spillway pipe that is greater than 24' in diameter. Previously installed structure had embankment and pipe 

failure, and is in need of new pipe installation and embankment repair. Cost estimate is based upon shaping side slopes, replacing pipe and riser, and replacing with a 

typical amount of earthfill of 4250 cubic yards. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosionconcentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the structure and impacting the downstream water quality. Also presents a safety hazard of potential dam 

failure. Erosion from the gullies is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Diameter Inch Foot of Barrel

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 2,400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $33,567.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 4250 $16,447.50

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 129 $777.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 13 $1,712.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 36 $1,149.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 46 $6,213.22

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 3300 $3,168.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #84 - Embankment Pond without Pipe

Scenario Description:

A water impoundment structure on agricultural land to improve water quality or to provide water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire control, crop and orchard 

irrigation, and other related uses. An earthen embankment will be constructed with an earthen auxiliary spillway. The resource concerns addressed include inadequate 

livestock water, excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, and reduced capacity of conveyances by sediment 

deposition. 

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or irrigation. Failure of the embankment will not result in loss of 

life or damages of any kind.

After Situation:

The typical pond is constructed by excavating the pool area, constructing the auxiliary spillway, preparing the foundation as designed, and using 3100 cubic yards to create 

an embankment. The product of the storage times the effective height of the dam is less than 3,000. The effective height of the dam is 35 feet or less. The earthen 

auxiliary spillway will be constructed as designed. No principle spillway pipe will be used. Vegetation will be completed under critical area planting (342). Other associated 

practices include 382, 516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Embankment Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 3,100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,284.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 40 $4,048.40

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 40 $1,464.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 378 - Pond

Scenario: #85 - Embankment Pond with Pipe

Scenario Description:

A low-hazard water impoundment structure on agricultural land to improve water quality and to provide water for livestock, fish and wildlife, recreation, fire control, crop 

and orchard irrigation, and other related uses. An earthen embankment will be constructed with a principle spillway conduit and earthen auxiliary spillway, as designed. 

The resource concerns addressed include inadequate livestock water, excessive suspended sediment and turbidity in surface water, damage from sediment deposition, 

and reduced capacity of conveyances by sediment deposition. 

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control or irrigation. Failure of the embankment will not result in loss of 

life or damages of any kind.

After Situation:

The typical low hazard pond is constructed by excavating the pool area, constructing the auxiliary spillway, preparing the foundation as designed, and using 3100 cubic 

yards to create an embankment. The product of the storage times the effective height of the dam is less than 3,000. The effective height of the dam is 35 feet or less. The 

principle spillway is installed using an approved conduit material. The earthen auxiliary spillway will be constructed as designed. Vegetation will be completed under 

critical area planting (342). Other associated practices include 382, 516, 521A, 533, 614, 587, 396. 

Feature Measure: Embankment Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 3,100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,626.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 3 $1,790.13

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 1.6 $3.89

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 48 $4,858.08

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 48.5 $1,775.10

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 19.6 $400.62

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 1662 $3,440.34

Trash Guard, metal 1608 Trash Guard, fabricated-steel, includes materials, equipment, and labor 

to transport and place Conical shaped trash guard for drop inlet 

spillway. Typically fabricated of CMP and steel. Includes materials, 

equipment, and labor to fabricate and transport.

Pound $2.81 118 $331.58

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #1 - Hand Planted, Bare Root

Scenario Description:

Single 600 foot row of bare root shrubs, conifers, hardwoods, or combination for wind protection, wildlife habitat, or snow management. Shrubs will be planted with a 

spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers based on feet of trees. This 

practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed may include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, 

inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition 

(undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching 

practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover. 

Feature Measure: Number of trees

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $207.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 40 $43.20

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 20 $20.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 20 $19.20

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #5 - Trees, machine planted 

Scenario Description:

Tree planting consisting of 2500 feet of trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. The 

planting may consist of shrubs, hardwood trees, conifers, or a combination. Trees and shrubs planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing 

of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/4 shrubs, 1/2 hardwoods, and 1/4 conifers based 

on feet of trees. Herbivores (deer, rabbits, etc.) are NOT expected to browse tree seedlings, tree protection is not needed. This practice is typically applied to crop, 

pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water 

Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition 

(undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); 

Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of planted windbreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $929.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 156 $168.48

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 125 $125.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 63 $60.48

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 100 $13.00
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #6 - Trees, machine planted, wildlife protection

Scenario Description:

Tree planting consisting of 2500 feet of trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. The 

planting may consist of shrubs, hardwood trees, conifers, or a combination. Trees and shrubs planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing 

of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/4 shrubs, 1/2 hardwoods, and 1/4 conifers based 

on feet of trees. Herbivore (deer, rabbits, etc.) damage is likely, so each tree must be protected with a rigid tube tree shelter. This practice is typically applied to crop, 

pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water 

Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition 

(undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); 

Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of planted windbreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,749.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 14 $334.32

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 156 $168.48

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 125 $125.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 63 $60.48

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 188 $1,253.96

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 188 $13.16

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 188 $456.84

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 100 $13.00
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #7 - Hand Planted, Bare Root, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. Single 600 foot row of bare root shrubs, conifers, hardwoods, or combination for wind protection, wildlife habitat, 

or snow management. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 

hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers based on feet of trees. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed may include: Soil 

Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition. The area 

generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover. Greatly improved success rate of the 

windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: Number of trees

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $739.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 40 $43.20

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 20 $20.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 20 $19.20

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 2400 $216.00

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #11 - Trees, machine planted, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. The planting consists of 2500 feet of trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, 

snow management or to provide a visual screen. The planting may consist of shrubs, hardwood trees, conifers, or a combination. Trees and shrubs planted with a tree 

planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. The scenario will 

include 1/4 shrubs, 1/2 hardwoods, and 1/4 conifers based on feet of trees. Herbivores (deer, rabbits, etc.) are NOT expected to browse tree seedlings, tree protection is 

not needed. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water 

(drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use 

(facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition. The area generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. Greatly improved success rate of the windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: length of planted windbreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,361.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 22 $525.36

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 156 $168.48

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 125 $125.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 63 $60.48

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 100 $13.00

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 10000 $900.00

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #12 - Trees, machine planted, wildlife protection, supplemental water for establishment 

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. Planting consists of 2500 feet of trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow 

management or to provide a visual screen. The planting may consist of shrubs, hardwood trees, conifers, or a combination. Trees and shrubs planted with a tree planting 

machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/4 

shrubs, 1/2 hardwoods, and 1/4 conifers based on feet of trees. Herbivore (deer, rabbits, etc.) damage is likely, so each tree must be protected with a rigid tube tree 

shelter. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water 

(drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use 

(facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition. The area generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. Greatly improved success rate of the windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: length of planted windbreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,180.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 156 $168.48

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 125 $125.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 63 $60.48

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 188 $1,253.96

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 188 $13.16

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 188 $456.84

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 100 $13.00

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 10000 $900.00
Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.161 $219.16
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #21 - 2-row windbreak, shrubs, machine planted 

Scenario Description:

Two 500 foot rows of shrubs for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. Shrubs planted with a 

tree planting machine 4 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed 

include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, 

pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat 

for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, 

objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $448.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 250 $270.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #22 - 2-row windbreak, trees, machine planted 

Scenario Description:

Two 500 foot rows of hardwood trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. Trees planted 

with a tree planting machine 10 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. Herbivores (deer, rabbits, etc.) are NOT expected to browse tree seedlings, tree protection 

is not needed. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water 

(drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use 

(facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $452.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 2 $12.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 100 $100.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #23 - 3 or more row windbreak, shrub, machine planted 

Scenario Description:

Three or more 500 foot rows of shrubs for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management. Shrubs planted with a tree planting 

machine, 4 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil 

Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides 

transported to surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable 

odors); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screening or 

management of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $933.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 375 $405.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 60 $7.80
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #25 - 3 or more row windbreak, trees, machine planted

Scenario Description:

Three or more 500 foot rows of trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. The outside 

rows are conifers the inside row(s) are hardwoods. Trees 10 feet apart with rows 16 feet apart, planted with a tree planting machine. Planted seedlings are not likely to 

be impacted by environmental stressors, so tree shelters are not needed. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be 

addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface 

waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate 

habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, 

objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screening or 

management of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $468.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 2 $12.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 50 $50.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 100 $128.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #26 - 1 row windbreak, shrubs, hand planted 

Scenario Description:

Single 500 foot row of shrubs for wind protection, wildlife habitat, or snow management. Shrubs planted by hand 4 feet apart. This practice is typically applied to crop, 

pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed may include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); 

Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and 

health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $362.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 125 $135.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #27 - 1 row windbreak, trees, hand planted 

Scenario Description:

Single 500 foot row of conifer tree seedlings for wind protection, wildlife habitat, or snow management. Trees planted by hand 10 feet apart. This practice is typically 

applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed may include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture 

management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant 

productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field 

operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $178.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 1 $12.51

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 50 $64.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #84 - Renovation-Thinning or tree removal with Dozer (trees > 8 inches DBH) followed by machine planting

Scenario Description:

Windbreak/shelterbelt renovation to remove and replace deteriorated, damaged, diseased, or unsuitable trees or shrubs. The treatment may include removal of entire 

rows, or removal of selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of replacement trees and shrubs within the footprint of an existing windbreak, to 

improve the health and function of the windbreak. The treatment uses mechanized equipment to remove trees and/or shrubs with average DBH > 8 inches. Trees and 

shrubs are cleared with a Dozer. All slash material from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped, or removed from the treatment 

area. Machine planting is used to replace the trees/shrubs that were removed, to improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Various types and 

combinations of plant materials may be used, including bare root and/or containerized trees/shrubs, and conifer and/or deciduous species or mixtures. Windbreak width 

of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to an area of 1 acre. For planting that expands the footprint of an existing windbreak, use scenarios for 

Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment. Resource concerns include: Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Inadequate livestock shelter, Wind erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/ shelterbelt has been restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Length of Restoration

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,009.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 8 $809.68

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 3 $172.26

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 11 $262.68

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 48 $51.84

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 24 $24.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 24 $30.72

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.881 $771.88
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #111 - Renovation - Sod Release

Scenario Description:

Renovation to reduce competition from grass sod around trees/shrubs within a windbreak/shelterbelt. Apply appropriate herbicide to stress or kill competing sod 

vegetation between and/or within tree/shrub rows. The herbicide application is completed to significantly reduce competition from sod (grass) in the windbreak. Use WINPST or equivalent approved tool to evaluate herbicide impacts. Windbreak width of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations, resulting in an area of 1 acre.

Before Situation:

The health of an existing windbreak/shelterbelt is deteriorating due to competition with grass sod. Trees/shrubs are dying or growth rate is reduced, and the 

windbreak/shelterbelt is not functioning as intended.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/ shelterbelt has been restored and it is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, 

and structures.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $438.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Herbicide, Sethoxydim 339 A selective post emergence herbicide used to control annual and 

perennial grass weeds. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active 

ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $17.06 1 $17.06

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #112 - Coppicing

Scenario Description:

Coppicing of selected trees and understory vegetation in a windbreak/shelterbelt is needed to ensure that species composition and stand structure continue to serve their 

intended purpose. Windbreak/shelterbelt renovation is carried out through manipulating species composition, structure, and stocking by the cutting of selected trees and 

understory vegetation for coppicing and by removing or disposing of slash so as to not interfere with the windbreak/shelterbelt renovation or other management 

operations. Windbreak width of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to an area of 1 acre. For planting that expands the footprint of an existing 

windbreak, use scenarios for Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment. Resource concerns include: Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Plant composition 

and structure, Inadequate livestock shelter, Wind erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/shelterbelt has been restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,371.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 8 $943.92

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #115 - Renovation-Thinning or tree/shrub removal with Skidsteer followed by machine planting

Scenario Description:

Windbreak/shelterbelt renovation to remove and replace deteriorated, damaged, diseased, or unsuitable trees or shrubs. The treatment may include removal of entire 

rows, or removal of selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of replacement trees and shrubs within the footprint of an existing windbreak, to 

improve the health and function of the windbreak. The treatment uses mechanized equipment to remove trees and/or shrubs with average DBH < 8 inches. Trees and 

shrubs are cleared by a Skidsteer with a tree shear or saw. All woody debris produced by cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped, 

or removed from the treatment area. Machine planting is used to replace the trees/shrubs that were removed, to improve the effectiveness and longevity of the 

windbreak. Various types and combinations of plant materials may be used, including bare root and/or containerized trees/shrubs, and conifer and/or deciduous species 

or mixtures. Windbreak width of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to an area of 1 acre. For planting that expands the footprint of an existing 

windbreak, use scenarios for Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment. Resource concerns include: Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Inadequate livestock 

shelter, Wind erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/ shelterbelt has been restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,615.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 11 $631.62

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 3 $18.06

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 11 $262.68

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 11 $342.54

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 48 $51.84

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 24 $24.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 24 $30.72

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #116 - Renovation - Tree/shrub removal with chainsaw followed by hand planting

Scenario Description:

Windbreak/shelterbelt renovation to remove and replace deteriorated, damaged, diseased, or unsuitable trees or shrubs. The treatment may include removal of entire 

rows, or removal of selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of replacement trees and shrubs within the footprint of an existing windbreak, to 

improve the health and function of the windbreak. Supplemental plantings of bare root and/or containerized trees/shrubs, of conifer and/or deciduous species, or 

mixtures, are applied to improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Windbreak width of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to 

an area of 1 acre. For planting that expands the footprint of an existing windbreak, use scenarios for Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment. Resource concerns include: 

Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Inadequate livestock shelter, Wind erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/shelterbelt has been restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,146.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 10 $63.60

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 18 $225.18

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 28 $668.64

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Large 1508 Bare root shrub seedling, 36 to 60 inches tall; includes containerized 

seedlings larger than 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $4.01 36 $144.36

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 36 $72.72

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Large 1515 Containerized conifer seedlings, 15 or 20 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 2+1 (three-year old seedlings that grew two years in 

the original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed) or bare root 

seedlings 3+0 and older (three-year or older seedlings grown in their 

original seedbed, or transplanted seedlings). Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.73 36 $62.28

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 36 $313.56

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 36 $275.76
Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 90 $47.70

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 3- 1560

1/4 in. x 30 in.

3-1/4 inch x 30 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. 

Materials and shipping only.

Each $3.25 90 $292.50

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 1581

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.17 90 $105.30

Stake, bamboo, 3/8 in. x 36 in. 1584 3/8 in. x 36 in. bamboo stakes to anchor items in place. Inlcudes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $0.24 90 $21.60
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #125 - 1 row windbreak - small acreage

Scenario Description:

One row of containerized shrubs planted to address resource concerns; Inefficient Energy Use, Air Quality Impacts and/or Fish and Wildlife Habitat. This practice is 

typically applied on cropland at field edges and around homesteads.

Before Situation:

Agricultural field or farmstead needing protections from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screening. The area generally includes arid or 

drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

A windbreak of containerized shrubs is installed by hand planting shrubs 6 ft apart. Wind velocity suitably diminished to reduce soil erosion or energy loss. Additional 

wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual screening. Greatly improved success rate of the windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: Length of windbreak row

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $423.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Medium 1527 Potted shrub seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $14.34 17 $243.78

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 17 $2.21

Fertilizer, tree, slow release, 1594

premix packet or spike

Slow release fertilizer to gradually apply nutrients over time for tree 

establishment. 2.0 Oz Packet (Premixed: 16-16-16 or 16-8-8 ) or 

Fertilizer Spike

Each $0.73 17 $12.41

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 200 $18.00
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #218 - 2-row windbreak, trees, shelters, machine planted

Scenario Description:

Two 500 foot rows of hardwood tree seedlings for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. 

Trees planted with a tree planting machine 10 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. Environmental impacts are likely, so each tree must be protected with a rigid 

tube tree shelter. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient 

Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use 

(facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,356.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 2 $12.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 100 $100.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 5 in. 1571

x 48 in.

5 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 100 $529.00

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 150 $10.50

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 150 $364.50

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #219 - 3 or more row windbreak, trees, shelters, machine planted

Scenario Description:

Three or more 500 foot rows of hardwood trees for wind protection, energy conservation, wildlife habitat, air quality, snow management or to provide a visual screen. 

Trees planted with a tree planting machine 10 feet apart in the row with rows 16 feet apart. Environmental impacts are likely, so each tree must be protected with a rigid 

tube tree shelter. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient 

Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, pesticides transported to surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Livestock Production Limitation (inadequate shelter); Air Quality Impacts (emission of particulate matter, objectionable odors); Inefficient Energy Use 

(facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, odor mitigation, visual screen or management 

of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to reduce soil erosion, energy loss or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover, mixing of odor plumes and visual 

screening. 

Feature Measure: length of windbreak row(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,673.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 2 $12.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 150 $150.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 5 in. 1571

x 48 in.

5 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 150 $793.50

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 150 $10.50

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 150 $364.50

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 60 $7.80
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #239 - Renovation-Thinning or tree removal with Dozer (trees > 8 inches DBH) followed by hand planting

Scenario Description:

Windbreak/shelterbelt renovation to remove and replace deteriorated, damaged, diseased, or unsuitable trees or shrubs. The treatment may include removal of entire 

rows, or removal of selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of replacement trees and shrubs within the footprint of an existing windbreak, to 

improve the health and function of the windbreak. The treatment uses mechanized equipment to remove trees and/or shrubs with average DBH >8 inches. Trees and 

shrubs are cleared with a Dozer. All woody debris from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped, or removed from the treatment 

area. Hand planting is used to replace the trees/shrubs that were removed, improving the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Various types and combinations of 

plant materials may be used, including bare root and/or containerized trees/shrubs, and conifer and/or deciduous species or mixtures. Windbreak width of 60' and length 

of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to an area of 1 acre. For planting that expands the footprint of an existing windbreak, use scenarios for 

Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment. Resource concerns include: Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Inadequate livestock shelter, Wind erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/ shelterbelt has been restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,589.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 8 $809.68

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 18 $225.18

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Large 1508 Bare root shrub seedling, 36 to 60 inches tall; includes containerized 

seedlings larger than 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $4.01 36 $144.36

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 36 $72.72

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Large 1515 Containerized conifer seedlings, 15 or 20 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 2+1 (three-year old seedlings that grew two years in 

the original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed) or bare root 

seedlings 3+0 and older (three-year or older seedlings grown in their 

original seedbed, or transplanted seedlings). Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.73 36 $62.28

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 36 $313.56

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 36 $275.76
Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 90 $47.70

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 3- 1560

1/4 in. x 30 in.

3-1/4 inch x 30 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. 

Materials and shipping only.

Each $3.25 90 $292.50

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 1581

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.17 90 $105.30

Stake, bamboo, 3/8 in. x 36 in. 1584 3/8 in. x 36 in. bamboo stakes to anchor items in place. Inlcudes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $0.24 90 $21.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 380 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment and Renovation

Scenario: #250 - Renovation-Supplemental hand planting with container or bare root stock

Scenario Description:

Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died, but it is not necessary to cut or mechanically remove the dead wood. Supplemental plantings of containerized or bare 

root trees/shrubs within the existing footprint of the windbreak will improve its effectiveness and longevity. The windbreak/shelterbelt is renovated through hand planting 

of containerized tree and/or shrub seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. A windbreak 

width of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to an area of 1 acre. For planting that expands the footprint of an existing windbreak, use 

scenarios for Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment. Resource concerns include: Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Inadequate livestock shelter, Wind 

erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/ shelterbelt has been restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 726.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,308.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 18 $225.18

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Large 1508 Bare root shrub seedling, 36 to 60 inches tall; includes containerized 

seedlings larger than 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $4.01 36 $144.36

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 36 $72.72

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Large 1515 Containerized conifer seedlings, 15 or 20 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 2+1 (three-year old seedlings that grew two years in 

the original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed) or bare root 

seedlings 3+0 and older (three-year or older seedlings grown in their 

original seedbed, or transplanted seedlings). Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.73 36 $62.28

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 36 $313.56

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 36 $275.76

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 90 $47.70

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 3- 1560

1/4 in. x 30 in.

3-1/4 inch x 30 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. 

Materials and shipping only.

Each $3.25 90 $292.50

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 1581

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.17 90 $105.30
Stake, bamboo, 3/8 in. x 36 in. 1584 3/8 in. x 36 in. bamboo stakes to anchor items in place. Inlcudes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $0.24 90 $21.60
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #17 - Non-commercial thin pine plantation - establish native grasses

Scenario Description:

Non-commercial thinning of an existing stand of trees followed by establishment of native grasses.

Before Situation:

10-acre pine plantation that is overstocked, with a basal area of 100 sq. ft. per acre. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to the dense shade of the tree 

canopy. Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition, Wildfire Hazard, 

Excessive Biomass Accumulation; Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate Feed and Forage, and Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The stand is thinned non-commercially to a basal area of 50 sq. ft. per acre, which will allow adequate sunlight to the forest floor for grass production, yet still provide 

shade and some protection from the elements for livestock and wildlife. Debris is removed, all tree cutting will leave the shortest possible stump height. The soil is 

prepared for planting using chemical and mechanical means, then a mix of native warm-season grasses will be established, providing forage to livestock and wildlife. All 

Resource Concerns listed above are adressed. 

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,157.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $715.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 60 $381.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 60 $1,432.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 10 $1,349.70
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #18 - Commercial thin pine plantation - establish native grasses

Scenario Description:

Commercial thinning of an existing stand of trees followed by establishment of native grasses.

Before Situation:

10-acre pine plantation that is overstocked, with a basal area of 100 sq. ft. per acre. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to the dense shade of the tree 

canopy. Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition, Wildfire Hazard, 

Excessive Biomass Accumulation; Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate Feed and Forage, and Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The stand is thinned commercially to a basal area of 50 sq. ft. per acre, which will allow adequate sunlight to the forest floor for grass production, yet still provide shade 

and some protection from the elements for livestock and wildlife. Since thinning is done commercially, no harvesting costs are incurred. Debris is removed, all tree cutting 

will leave the shortest possible stump height. The soil is prepared for planting using chemical and mechanical means, then a mix of native warm-season grasses will be 

established, providing forage to livestock and wildlife. All Resource Concerns listed above are addressed. 

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,342.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $534.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 10 $1,349.70
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #19 - Non-commercial thin pine plantation - establish introduced grasses

Scenario Description:

Non-commercial thinning of an existing stand of trees followed by establishment of introduced grasses.

Before Situation:

10-acre pine plantation that is overstocked, with a basal area of 100 sq. ft. per acre. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to the dense shade of the tree 

canopy. Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition, Wildfire Hazard, 

Excessive Biomass Accumulation; Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate Feed and Forage, and Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The stand is thinned non-commercially to a basal area of 50 sq. ft. per acre, which will allow adequate sunlight to the forest floor for grass production, yet still provide 

shade and some protection from the elements for livestock and wildlife. Debris is removed, all tree cutting will leave the shortest possible stump height. The soil is 

prepared for planting using chemical and mechanical means, then a mix of cool-season grasses and legumes will be established, providing forage to livestock and wildlife. 

All Resource Concerns listed above are addressed.

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,285.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $628.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 60 $381.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 60 $1,432.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 10 $477.60
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #20 - Establish native grasses in pine plantation that does not need to be thinned

Scenario Description:

Establishment of native grasses into an existing stand of trees that is already at an adequate density .

Before Situation:

10-acre pine plantation woodlot that has a basal area of 50 sq. ft. per acre. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to undesirable species in the understory. 

Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition; Livestock Production Limitation - 

Inadequate Feed and Forage.

After Situation:

The soil is prepared for planting using chemical and mechanical means, then a mix of native warm-season grasses will be established, providing forage to livestock and 

wildlife. All Resource Concerns listed above are addressed.

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,356.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $435.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 10 $1,349.70
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #21 - Establish introduced grasses in a pine plantation that does not need to be thinned

Scenario Description:

Establishment of introduced grasses into an existing stand of trees that is already at an adequate density .

Before Situation:

10-acre pine plantation woodlot that has a basal area of 50 sq. ft. per acre. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to undesirable species in the understory. 

Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition; Livestock Production Limitation - 

Inadequate Feed and Forage.

After Situation:

The soil is prepared for planting using chemical and mechanical means, then a mix of cool-season grasses and legumes will be established, providing forage to livestock 

and wildlife. All Resource Concerns listed above are adressed. 

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,484.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $348.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 10 $477.60
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #22 - Establish pine and native grasses

Scenario Description:

Establishment of trees and native grasses into a field that contains neither suitable forage nor suitable tree cover for a silvopasture system.

Before Situation:

10-acre old field without suitable forage for livestock nor tree cover. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to undesirable species in the understory. 

Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition; Livestock Production Limitation - 

Inadequate Feed and Forage, and Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The site will be prepared using chemical and mechanical means, a mix of native warm-season grasses will be established, and then 200 pine trees per acre will be planted, 

providing forage to livestock and wildlife, and, in time, producing a viable wood products crop. Per the conservation practice standard, livestock grazing will be deferred 

until the trees reach adequate height to resist damage, or use exclusion measures are established. All Resource Concerns listed above are adressed. 

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,787.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $678.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 4 $24.08

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 2000 $2,000.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 2000 $260.00

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 10 $1,349.70
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #23 - Establish pine into established forage

Scenario Description:

Establishment of trees into an existing pasture that contains adequate native or introduced forage.

Before Situation:

10-acre pasture with suitable forage for livestock. There is very little protection from the elements (sun, wind, etc.) available to the livestock. Additionally, there are no 

long-term wood products being produced. Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and 

Composition, Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The site will be prepared using Tree/Shrub Site Preparation (490), if needed, and then 200 pine trees per acre will be planted, providing shade and wind protection to 

livestock and wildlife, and, in time, producing a viable wood products crop. Per the conservation practice standard, livestock grazing will be deferred until the trees reach 

adequate height to resist damage, or use exclusion measures are established. All Resource Concerns listed above are adressed. 

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,427.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $242.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 4 $24.08

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 2000 $1,920.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 2000 $260.00
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #24 - Commercial thin pine plantation - establish non-native grasses

Scenario Description:

Commercial thinning of an existing stand of trees followed by establishment of introduced grasses.

Before Situation:

10-acre pine plantation that is overstocked, with a basal area of 100 sq. ft. per acre. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to the dense shade of the tree 

canopy. Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition, Wildfire Hazard, 

Excessive Biomass Accumulation; Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate Feed and Forage, and Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The stand is thinned commercially to a basal area of 50 sq. ft. per acre, which will allow adequate sunlight to the forest floor for grass production, yet still provide shade 

and some protection from the elements for livestock and wildlife. Since thinning is done commercially, no harvesting costs are incurred. Debris is removed, all tree cutting 

will leave the shortest possible stump height. The soil is prepared for planting using chemical and mechanical means, then a mix of cool-season grasses and legumes will 

be established, providing forage to livestock and wildlife. All Resource Concerns listed above are addressed. 

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,470.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $447.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 10 $477.60
Practice: 381 - Silvopasture

Scenario: #25 - Establish pine and introduced grasses

Scenario Description:

Establishment of trees and introduced grasses and legumes into a field that contains neither suitable forage nor suitable tree cover for a silvopasture system.

Before Situation:

10-acre old field without suitable forage for livestock nor tree cover. There is very little available forage for livestock, due to undesirable species in the understory. 

Resource Concerns include Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant Productivity and Health, Inadequate Structure and Composition; Livestock Production Limitation - 

Inadequate Feed and Forage, and Inadequate Livestock Shelter.

After Situation:

The site will be prepared using chemical and mechanical means, a mix of cool-season grasses and legumes will be established, and then 200 pine trees per acre will be 

planted, providing forage to livestock and wildlife, and, in time, producing a viable wood products crop. Per the conservation practice standard, livestock grazing will be 

deferred until the trees reach adequate height to resist damage, or use exclusion measures are established. All Resource Concerns listed above are addressed.

Feature Measure: Acres of silvopasture established

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,835.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $583.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 10 $93.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 4 $24.08

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 500 $395.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 500 $340.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 10 $126.60

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 2000 $1,920.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 2000 $260.00

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 10 $477.60
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #1 - Barbed Wire, Multi-strand

Scenario Description:

Multi-strand, Barbed Wire - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, 

protection of sensitive area, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured gate. 

The fence is typically 4 strands over 3/4 of a mile (3,960 ft).

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases the opportunity for the encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that allows adequate rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc. Four strand wire is commonly installed. Fence will be 

installed with wildlife friendly considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,073.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 20 $199.60

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 21 $770.28

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 12 $1,433.40

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 87 $1,150.14

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 10 $190.10

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 10 $239.80

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 160 $1,104.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 5280 $1,056.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #2 - Barbed Wire, Multi-strand with Fence Markers

Scenario Description:

Multi-strand, Barbed Wire - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, 

protection of sensitive areas, improved water quality, and reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured 

gate. The fence is typically 4 strands with wildlife markers, over 3/4 of a mile (3,960 ft).

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases the opportunity for the encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive 

areas, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc. Four strand wire is commonly installed. Fence 

will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. The after condition includes markers placed on the fence to protect and deter wildlife, primarily protected wildlife 

include Sage grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, etc. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,944.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 20 $199.60

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 21 $770.28

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 12 $1,433.40

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 87 $1,150.14

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 10 $190.10

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 10 $239.80

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 160 $1,104.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 5280 $1,056.00

Vinyl Undersill Strips 241 Marking material using the undersill strips of vinyl siding. Priced per 

foot of fence per each wire. Materials only.

Feet $0.11 7920 $871.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #3 - Barbed Wire, Multi-strand, difficult terrain

Scenario Description:

Multi-strand, Barbed Wire - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that provides adequate rest and recovery periods, protection 

of sensitive areas, improved water quality, and reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured gate. 

Installed on rugged land or where site conditions require longer time to install the fence than the typical scenario.

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing, and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases the opportunity for the encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that provides an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive 

areas, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc... Four strand wire is commonly installed. Fence 

will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,014.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 25 $249.50

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 25 $640.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 30 $1,100.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 180 $4,298.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 12 $1,433.40

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 87 $1,150.14

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 10 $190.10

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 10 $239.80

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 160 $1,104.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 5280 $1,056.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #4 - Barbed Wire, Multi-strand with fence markers, difficult terrain

Scenario Description:

Multi-strand, Barbed Wire - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that provides adequate rest and recovery periods, protection 

of sensitive areas, improved water quality, and reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured gate. 

Installed on rugged land or where site conditions require longer time to install the fence than the typical scenario. Some of the sites that may be considered as difficult 

terrain are steep slopes, badlands, or rocky soils.

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases the opportunity for the encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that provides for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive 

areas, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc... Four strand wire is commonly installed. Fence 

will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. The after condition includes markers placed on the fence to protect and deter wildlife, primarily protected wildlife 

include Sage grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, etc.

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,674.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 25 $249.50

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 25 $640.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 30 $1,100.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 180 $4,298.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 12 $1,433.40

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 87 $939.60

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 10 $190.10

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 10 $239.80

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 160 $1,104.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 5280 $1,056.00

Vinyl Undersill Strips 241 Marking material using the undersill strips of vinyl siding. Priced per 

foot of fence per each wire. Materials only.

Feet $0.11 7920 $871.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #5 - Woven Wire

Scenario Description:

Woven - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that promotes adequate rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Woven wire is typically used in applications with sheep, goats, hogs, wildlife exclusion, shelterbelt/tree 

protection, etc. Constructed using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured gate. Includes 32' woven wire with 2 strands of barbed wire.

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing, and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, livestock access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetation, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases the opportunity for the encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds. cover increases opportunity for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of a rotational grazing plan that promotes adequate rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Woven wire fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc. Woven wire is typically used in applications 

with sheep, goats, hogs, wildlife exclusion, shelterbelt/tree protection, etc. Fence will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,777.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 15 $149.70

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 15 $384.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 21 $770.28

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 90 $2,149.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 21 $653.94

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 6 $716.70

Wire, Woven, Galvanized, 12.5 3

Gauge, 32 in

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 32 inch - 330 foot roll. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $189.52 12 $2,274.24

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 80 $864.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 7 $92.54

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 10 $190.10

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 160 $1,104.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 2640 $528.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Woven 35

Wire

Brace pins, twist sticks, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.15 3960 $594.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #7 - Electric, high tensile with energizer

Scenario Description:

Electric - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive 

areas, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Includes 3 strands of high tensile wire with energizer.

Before Situation:

On grazinglands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing, and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases opportunity for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive areas, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, fence charger, etc. Two to three strand wire is commonly 

installed. Fence will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,537.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 4 $39.92

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 6 $220.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Wire, High Tensile, 12.5 Gauge, 2

4,000' roll

High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 4,000' roll. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $150.67 2 $301.34

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 4 $52.88

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 8 $152.08

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 35 $241.50

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 1 $16.94

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 2 $4.82

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62

Fence, Wire Assembly, High 34

Tensile, Electric, 3 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples, 

insulators, wrap around sleeves. Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.15 2640 $396.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #8 - Electric, high tensile with energizer and fence markers

Scenario Description:

Electric - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive areas, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Includes 3 strands of high-tensile wire with energizer.

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing, and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases opportunity for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of interior fencing will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive areas, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, fence charger, etc. Two to three strand wire is commonly 

installed. Fence will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. The after condition includes markers placed on the fence to protect and deter wildlife, protected 

wildlife species include Sage grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, etc.

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,165.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 4 $39.92

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 6 $220.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 42 $1,002.96

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Wire, High Tensile, 12.5 Gauge, 2

4,000' roll

High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 4,000' roll. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $150.67 2 $301.34

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 4 $52.88

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 8 $152.08

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 35 $241.50

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 1 $16.94

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 2 $4.82

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62

Fence, Wire Assembly, High 34

Tensile, Electric, 3 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples, 

insulators, wrap around sleeves. Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.15 2640 $396.00

Vinyl Undersill Strips 241 Marking material using the undersill strips of vinyl siding. Priced per 

foot of fence per each wire. Materials only.

Feet $0.11 5280 $580.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #9 - Protective Fence

Scenario Description:

A barrier (fence) implemented on an NRCS constructed waste storage system site per an approved engineering design. Permanently installed fence built to (1) keep 

humans away from waste ponds & lagoons, (2) to protect sensitive areas (riparian areas, wetlands, springs, etc.) from heavy livestock pressure, (3) to protect newly 

installed conservation practices where vulnerable to livestock damage. Heavy grade fence materials and close post spacing required. 

Before Situation:

Where a NRCS designed and constructed waste storage pond is planned whereby significant risk to human safety is determined to be evident. Livestock has access to 

sensitive areas, or area with newly installed conservation practices that may cause detrimental effects to animal/human health and wildlife habitat. Resource concerns 

affected are plant health and vigor, wildlife habitat, compaction of soils, runoff of sediment or water quality degradation due to increased turbidity. 

After Situation:

Humans and livestock are excluded from the waste storage pond for safety purposes by installing a fence around a waste holding pond. Improved livestock control and 

access to water, or other sensitive areas, will promote safety for livestock/humans, improve health and vigor of sensitive species, limit soil erosion, and improve soil 

condition.

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,450.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 6 $59.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 7 $256.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 7 $217.98

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 30 $324.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 6 $79.32

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 8 $152.08

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 55 $379.50

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1760 $352.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #10 - Confinement

Scenario Description:

Installation of a confinement fence is needed to addresses resource concerns associated with livestock feeding operations. The fence will provide protection of sensitive 

areas, improve water quality, and reduce of noxious and invasive weeds. Resource Concerns: Water Quality, Plant Condition.

Before Situation:

Livestock feeding operation requires relocation to address water quality concerns. The site has conditions with the potential to negatively impact water quality in the 

designated area. These potential adverse effects will be addressed by moving the livestock facility away from the area(s) of concern. 

After Situation:

Installation of fence reduces water quality and plant condition resource concerns associated with livestock facilities. The fence would typically be 150' wide x 200' long 

(700 lf) with two gates, installed by a fencing contractor. 8 ft tall woven wire fence with 6' diameter posts spaced at 8 ft increments. Associated practices may include 614-

Watering Facility, 516-Pipeline, 533-Pumping Plant, 342-Critical Area Planting.

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,845.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 10 $99.80

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 10 $366.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Materials

Wire, Woven, Galvanized, 12.5 3

Gauge, 32 in

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 32 inch - 330 foot roll. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $189.52 3 $568.56

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 8 $86.40

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 88 $607.20

Post, Wood, Untreated, 8-9 inch 1078

dia. X 8 ft.

Wood Post, End 8-9 inch diameter x 8 foot long, untreated. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $37.49 8 $299.92

Gate, Game, 8 ft. High X 16 ft. 1086

Wide

16 ft. Wide Game Gate (8 ft. tall). Includes materials and shipping only. Each $690.11 2 $1,380.22

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #11 - Portable Fence

Scenario Description:

One or two strands of polywire and step-in fiberglass fence posts. Typically used as cross-fencing on the interior of larger paddocks built with permanent perimeter 

fencing. Installation of portable, temporary, fencing will allow for the implementation of a grazing management system that provides adequate rest and recovery periods, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds, and better management of soil health. Portable fencing allows for more flexibility than standard 

fencing; this allows the manager to apply adaptive management (managing the grazing based on current conditions rather than a predetermined grazing system).

Before Situation:

Grazing lands health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing, and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, as a result of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases opportunity for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of portable fencing will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan that provides for an adequate rest and recovery periods, improved water 

quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds, and better management of soil health. Portable fencing includes step-in fiberglass posts, polywire, an energizer, and 

grounding rods. One strand of polywire is common, but sometimes two strands are appropriate, depending on class of livestock and other considerations.

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,504.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 5 $91.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 4 $180.80

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 2 $33.88

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 4 $9.64

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62

Post, Step-In, Plastic 2574 UV-stabilized plastic treadins with up to 9 lugs for positioning Polywire 

and Poly Tape up to 1 1/2 inches wide, 42 inches high (including stake) 

to control domestic and wild animals.

Each $3.73 132 $492.36
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #63 - Electric

Scenario Description:

Electric - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive area, 

improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds.

Before Situation:

On grazinglands health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover increases the opportunity for encroachment of noxious 

and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of fence will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive area, improved 

water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, fence charger, etc... Two to three strand wire is commonly installed. 

Fence will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,986.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 3 $29.94

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 2 $21.60

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Fiberglass, 7/8 in X 6 ft 18 Fiberglass line post, 7/8 inch diameter X 6 foot length. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $12.88 60 $772.80

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 6 $101.64

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 6 $14.46

Electric, Lightening Diverter 22 Electric, Lightening diverter for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $9.78 1 $9.78

Electric, Insulated cable 23 Electric, Insulated cable for electric fence. Typically in spools of 100 to 

200 feet. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $40.02 1 $40.02

Electric, Tester 26 Electric, Tester for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $43.90 1 $43.90

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62

Fence, Wire Assembly, High 33

Tensile, Electric, 2 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples, 

insulators, wrap around sleeves. Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.08 1320 $105.60

Gate, Pipe, 10 ft. 1056 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $209.21 1 $209.21

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #74 - Refabrication of existing fence for multispecies diversity

Scenario Description:

Multi-strand, Barbed Wire, Woven Wire - Installation of additional strands to fence will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan including multispecies 

animals that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive area, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed 

using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured gate. The fence is typically 4 strands over a mile (5,280 ft).

Before Situation:

On grazing lands, health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover, because of over grazing/improper distribution, 

increases the opportunity for the encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of additional strands to interior fencing will allow for implementation of a grazing management plan for a multi specie grazing system that allows adequate 

rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds by supporting diverse specie grazing application. 

Each grazing specie targets different types of forages and when managed properly, will improve plant diversity and vigor. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc. 

Four strand wire is commonly installed. Fence will be installed with wildlife friendly considerations.

Feature Measure: 5280

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,519.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 10 $99.80

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 60 $1,432.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 6 $716.70

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 43 $568.46

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 5 in. x 8 11

ft.

Wood Post, End 5 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $19.01 5 $95.05

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 5 $119.90

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 80 $552.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 5280 $1,056.00
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #137 - Multi Strand Barbed/Smooth Wire

Scenario Description:

Multi-strand, Barbed or Smooth Wire - Installation of fence will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, 

protection of sensitive area, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed using fencing materials rather than a pre-manufactured gate.

Before Situation:

On grazing lands health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover increases the opportunity for encroachment of noxious 

and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Installation of fence will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive area, improved 

water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, etc... Four strand wire is commonly installed. Fence will be installed 

with wildlife friendly considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,610.67

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5 $49.90

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 5 $183.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 33 $788.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 1 $228.17

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #138 - Multi Strand Barbed or smooth Wire Difficult terrain

Scenario Description:

Barbed, Smooth ,or Woven Wire Difficult Installation - Installation of fence in difficult situations will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an 

adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive area, improved water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Constructed using fencing materials 

rather than a pre-manufactured gate.

Before Situation:

On grazing lands health and vigor are negatively impacted by poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality is 

impacted by increased erosion and runoff, cattle access to water bodies is uncontrolled. Reduced vegetative cover increases the opportunity for encroachment of noxious 

and invasive weeds. Fence installation conditions are for difficult sites such as poor access, steep slopes, rocky sites, dense brush, wet conditions etc. 

After Situation:

Installation of fence will allow for implementation of grazing management that allows for an adequate rest and recovery period, protection of sensitive area, improved 

water quality, reduction of noxious and invasive weeds. Fence includes posts, wire, fasteners, gates, brace posts, etc... Fence will be installed with wildlife friendly 

considerations. 

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,650.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 10 $99.80

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 1 $6.36

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 10 $366.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 60 $1,432.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 1 $228.17

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #159 - Large Animal Perimeter 96 Inch Woven Wire

Scenario Description:

Woven Wire fencing installed for large livestock such as Bison, large ungulate herbivores, captive cervidae that are not domesticated. Because of the size and behavior 

differences relative to domesticated livestock, fences, handling facilities and loading facilities must be more robust to accommodate bison. Fence allows for the 

implementation of a grazing management under a CPS 528 Prescribed Grazing plan. Fence facilities the movement of livestock for forage management and protection of 

sensitive areas. All fence components are included. Fence encloses <= 20 acres or 2640 foot linear run connection with 5-8 wire fencing. Install fence with considerations 

for wildlife corridors.

Before Situation:

Livestock have access to forage and sensitive areas without management of intensity, duration and frequency of grazing events.Plant productivity and health is degraded. 

Water quality may be impaired by sediment and livestock access to water.

After Situation:

Installation of the tall woven wire high tensile electric fence allows for grazing management to be implemented. Fence is installed to specifications meeting the producer's 

objective and livestock type. Fence is installed with wildlife friendly considerations and known wildlife corridors.

Feature Measure: length

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,705.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 40 $399.20

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 40 $1,024.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 40 $1,467.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 40 $732.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Materials

Wire, Woven, Wildlife, 96 in. 6 High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 96 inch - 330 foot roll. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $677.38 8 $5,419.04

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 4 $95.92

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 13

12-14 ft.

Wood Post, Line/End 6 inch dia. X 12-14 ft., CCA Treated. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $37.02 160 $5,923.20

Fence, Wire Assembly, Woven 35

Wire

Brace pins, twist sticks, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.15 2640 $396.00

Gate, Pipe, 14 ft. 1058 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $262.22 2 $524.44

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #175 - Large Animal 8 Wire High Tensile, Electric

Scenario Description:

A high tensile wire fence which is electrified for large livestock such as Bison, large ungulate herbivores, captive cervidae that are not domesticated. Eight strands of wire 

are used for visual barrier with a minimum of 3 wires electrified. Fence allows for the implementation of a grazing management plan. Because of the size and behavior 

differences relative to domesticated livestock, fences, handling facilities and loading facilities must be more robust to accommodate bison. Fence allows for the 

implementation of grazing management under CPS Prescribed Grazing plan. Fence facilities the movement of livestock for forage management and protection of 

sensitive areas. All fence components are included. Fence encloses 40 acres. Install fence considering wildlife and known wildlife corridors.

Before Situation:

Livestock have access to forage and sensitive areas without management of intensity, duration and frequency of grazing events. Plant productivity and health is degraded. 

Water quality may be impaired by sediment and livestock access to water.

After Situation:

Installation of the 8 wire high tensile electric fence allows for grazing management to be implemented. Fence is installed to specifications meeting the producer's 

objective and livestock type. Fence is installed with wildlife friendly considerations and known wildlife corridors.

Feature Measure: lenght

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,652.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 53 $528.94

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 40 $1,024.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 53 $1,944.04

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 42 $768.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 88 $2,101.44

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 53 $1,650.42

Materials

Wire, High Tensile, 12.5 Gauge, 2

4,000' roll

High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 4,000' roll. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $150.67 11 $1,657.37

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 188 $2,485.36

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 26 $623.48

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 7 $118.58

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 7 $16.87

Electric, Lightening Diverter 22 Electric, Lightening diverter for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $9.78 1 $9.78

Electric, Insulated cable 23 Electric, Insulated cable for electric fence. Typically in spools of 100 to 

200 feet. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $40.02 1 $40.02

Electric, Power Surge Protector 24 Electric, Power Surge Protector for electric fence. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $14.73 1 $14.73

Electric, Cutoff Switch 25 Electric, Cutoff Switch for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $10.63 2 $21.26

Electric, Tester 26 Electric, Tester for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $43.90 1 $43.90

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62
Fence, Wire Assembly, High 34

Tensile, Electric, 3 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples, 

insulators, wrap around sleeves. Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.15 13728 $2,059.20

Gate, Pipe, 14 ft. 1058 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $262.22 2 $524.44

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 382 - Fence

Scenario: #191 - Large Animal 5 Wire High Tensile, Electric

Scenario Description:

A five strand high tensile wire fence which is electrified for large livestock such as Bison, large ungulate herbivores, captive cervidae that are not domesticated. Because of 

the size and behavior differences relative to domesticated livestock, fences, handling facilities and loading facilities must be more robust to accommodate bison. Fence 

allows for the implementation of a grazing management under CPS 528 Prescribed Grazing plan. Fence facilities the movement of livestock for forage management and 

protection of sensitive areas. All fence components are included. Fence encloses 40 acres. Install fence considering wildlife friendly design and adjustment for wildlife 

corridors.

Before Situation:

Livestock have access to forage and sensitive areas without management of intensity, duration and frequency of grazing events.Plant productivity and health is degraded. 

Water quality may be impaired by sediment and livestock access to water.

After Situation:

Installation of the 5 wire high tensile electric fence allows for grazing management to be implemented. Fence is installed to specifications meeting the producer's 

objective and livestock type. Fence is installed with wildlife friendly considerations and known wildlife corridors.

Feature Measure: length

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,981.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 53 $528.94

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 40 $1,024.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 53 $1,944.04

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 20 $366.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 53 $1,650.42

Materials

Wire, High Tensile, 12.5 Gauge, 2

4,000' roll

High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 4,000' roll. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $150.67 7 $1,054.69

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 188 $2,485.36

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 26 $623.48

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 7 $118.58

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 7 $16.87

Electric, Lightening Diverter 22 Electric, Lightening diverter for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $9.78 1 $9.78

Electric, Insulated cable 23 Electric, Insulated cable for electric fence. Typically in spools of 100 to 

200 feet. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $40.02 1 $40.02

Electric, Power Surge Protector 24 Electric, Power Surge Protector for electric fence. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $14.73 1 $14.73

Electric, Cutoff Switch 25 Electric, Cutoff Switch for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $10.63 2 $21.26

Electric, Tester 26 Electric, Tester for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $43.90 1 $43.90

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62
Fence, Wire Assembly, High 34

Tensile, Electric, 3 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples, 

insulators, wrap around sleeves. Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.15 10560 $1,584.00

Gate, Pipe, 14 ft. 1058 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $262.22 2 $524.44

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 383 - Fuel Break

Scenario: #1 - Fuel Break

Scenario Description:

Fuel Break installation requires tree thinning, treating woody residue, pruning, and mowing. Thinning treatment and pruning is done by hand, treating woody residue 

(piling/burning, crushing, or off-site removal) and mowing are mechanized. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition - wildfire hazard, excess biomass 

accumulation & undesirable productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

Forest stand is overstocked with desirable and undesirable trees. Overstocking creates conditions conducive to wildfire movement across the landscape, and severe 

loss/damage of the forest stand. Shrub levels are high and significanly increase wildfire risk. Tree crowns are touching, trees retain limbs down to understory vegetation 

creating a 'ladder' for fire movement into the overstory, and understory vegetation (brush and grasses) create a significant fuel load to rate a high to severe fire hazard. 

The terrain is moderately to steeply sloped (1-30%), increasing difficulty as slope steepens. 

After Situation:

Fuel Break is installed at the property line or a key locations to reduce crown fire spread. Size of fuel break is 4 acres; the width varies due to site conditions. The trees are 

thinned so open gaps are created in crown overstory, branches on remaining trees are pruned to 8 to 10 feet in height, all woody residue (thinned trees and pruned 

branches) are treated (piled/burned or lopped/scattered) so little remains in the fuel break and understory vegetation is mowed down to less than 1 foot in height. Cut 

stumps have been chemically treated to control sprouting. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,636.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,909.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 10 $1,012.10

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 8 $255.12

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 8 $660.72

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 8 $18.48

Pruning tool, pole saw 1319 Gasoline powered pole chainsaw. Labor not included. Hours $9.80 8 $78.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 4 $49.56

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 4 $136.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 100 $100.00
Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 383 - Fuel Break

Scenario: #5 - Hand Fuel Break

Scenario Description:

Fuel Break installation requires tree thinning, treating woody residue, pruning, and mowing. Thinning treatment, pruning, brush cutting and treating woody residue 

(piling/burning, crushing, or off-site removal), is done by hand. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition - wildfire hazard, excess biomass accumulation & 

undesirable productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

Forest stand is overstocked with desirable and undesirable trees. Overstocking creates conditions conducive to wildfire movement across the landscape, and loss of the 

forest stand. Excess stocking is impacting the health of the desired forest ecosystem and wildfire hazard poses risk to humans, structures, air quality, plants and animals. 

Tree crowns are touching, trees retain limbs down to understory vegetation creating a 'ladder' for fire movement into the overstory, and understory vegetation (brush and 

grasses) create a significant fuel load. 

After Situation:

A fuel break is installed by hand cutting trees, hand pruning remaining trees, piling and burning or removal of woody residue from tree cutting and pruning. FB installation 

is at property lines, around structures, at roadways, or other key locations to reduce continuity of vegetation cover. Width of fuel break varies based on site conditions.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,644.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,161.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 240 $1,526.40

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 12 $307.20

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 10 $23.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 240 $5,731.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 18 $907.20

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 4 $49.56

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 100 $100.00
Practice: 383 - Fuel Break

Scenario: #6 - Non Forested Fuel Break

Scenario Description:

A non forest fuel break occurs outside of forestlands where brush, grass and forbs dominate. Landuses where this scenario will be applied may be range, pasture or 

wetlands. The fuel break area is mowed/bushhog so standing vegetation is reduced to a low height. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition - wildfire hazard. 

Before Situation:

Wildfire movement is a concern within the designated area. Vegetation is tall, dense and continuous creating conditions conducive for fire movement across the 

landscape. 

After Situation:

A fuel break is installed by shredding/mowing/bushhogging a defined width at property lines, around structures, at roadways, or other key locations to reduce continuity 

of vegetation cover. Width of fuel break varies based on site conditions.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,412.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $353.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 8 $255.12

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 383 - Fuel Break

Scenario: #52 - Fuel Break-steep slopes

Scenario Description:

Fuel Break installation requires tree thinning, treating woody residue, pruning, and brush cutting. Thinning treatment, tree pruning and brush cutting are done by hand, 

treating woody residue (piling/burning, crushing, or off-site removal) is mechanized and hand treatment. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition - wildfire 

hazard, excess biomass accumulation & undesirable productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

The forest stand is overstocked with trees (desirable and undesirable) and is at risk of loss if a wildfire should occur. Tree crowns are touching, trees retain limbs down to 

understory vegetation creating a 'ladder' for fire movement into the overstory, and understory vegetation (brush and grasses) create a significant fuel load to rate a high 

to severe fire hazard. A fuel break is implemented to reduce the risk of a crown spreading wildfire. The terrain is steep, 40+%, which significantly reduces efficiency and 

increases cost of installation. More cutting of trees & brush and treatment of woody residue is accomplished using labor due to very steep slopes.

After Situation:

Fuel Break is installed at the property line or key locations to reduce crown fire spread. Size of fuel break is 4 acres; the width varies due to site conditions. The trees are 

thinned so open gaps are created in crown overstory; branches on remaining trees are pruned to a minimum of 8 to 10 feet in height; all woody residue, thinned trees, 

pruned branches and cut brush, are treated. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,503.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,875.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 10 $1,012.10

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 160 $1,017.60

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 10 $1,179.90

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 14 $1,156.26

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 14 $32.34

Pruning tool, pole saw 1319 Gasoline powered pole chainsaw. Labor not included. Hours $9.80 8 $78.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 160 $3,820.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 4 $49.56

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 4 $136.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #13 - Chipping and hauling off-site

Scenario Description:

Reducing woody waste created during forestry, agroforestry activities by gathering, chipping, and hauling off site to achieve management objectives. Does not include 

transport from property to a commercial facility. Resource concerns include potential Emissions of particulate matter, potential Excessive plant pest pressure, and 

Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation .

Before Situation:

Woody residue causes management issues including resource access, fire hazard and sites for harboring pests. 

After Situation:

Fire and pest issues are reduced. Air and energy resources are conserved.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,473.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $323.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 20 $127.20

Brush Chipper, 6 in. capacity 938 Brush Chipper, 6 inch capacity, typically 35 HP. Includes chipper and 

power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $35.31 20 $706.20

Log skidder 942 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $62.23 10 $622.30

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 20 $1,115.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 60 $1,868.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #14 - Restoration/conservation treatment following catastrophic events

Scenario Description:

The use of a combination of hand (chainsaw) and heavy equipment similar to those used in logging to treat slash resulting from catastrophic events such as fire, wind, 

severe pest outbreak, ice storm, etc. This scenario will remove/treat the larger material the size of which is consistent with the large equipment used. Resource concerns 

include: Excessive plant pest pressure, Potential emissions of particulate matter, Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, and Habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

 A large amount of slash and woody residue is created as a result of a non-silvicultural event such as a wind storm, wildfire, ice storm, pest outbreak, etc. Because the 

slash and residue is created by a catastrophic event that can cause tree-lodging, snags, broken tops, etc.; treatment is both difficult and dangerous. The presence of this 

material causes adverse effects on the forest include limiting access for management purposes, increasing the wildfire hazard, increasing the risk of potential harm to 

humans and livestock, and providing harboring sites for pests. 

After Situation:

The material resulting from the catastrophic event is reduced to a level that will minimize the resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Acres of affected forest

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,092.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $754.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 40 $3,919.20

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Log skidder 942 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $62.23 40 $2,489.20

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 40 $2,230.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 80 $2,491.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #16 - Forest Slash Treatment - Med/Heavy 

Scenario Description:

Treating an area of significant woody plant residues to reduce hazardous fuels and the risk of insect and disease, improve organic matter, decrease unwanted habitat, and 

reduce erosion while improving water quality. Slash is to be lopped/treated/crushed within a foot of the ground or moved off site to meet state fire hazard reduction 

standards. Typically heavy equipment are used such as masticators, mulchers, drum choppers, etc. Hand work with chainsaws are used on steep slopes. Resource 

concerns include potential Emission of particulate matter, Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Excessive plant pest pressure, and Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Heavy woody material (difficult to walk through) resulting from silvicultural/management operations caused both fire hazard, access, potential harm to humans and 

animals, and pest issues. 

After Situation:

Fire, access, and pest issues are reduced with slash spread out and in contact with the ground. An additional benefit is reduced soil movement.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,211.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $255.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 40 $254.40

Heavy mechanical site prep, drum 1316

chopping

Mechanical operations that pushing trees and vegetation and crushing 

them with a water filled roller chopper. Requires heavy equipment 

such as dozers. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $151.30 40 $6,052.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #18 - Woody residue/silvicultural slash treatment- light 

Scenario Description:

Treating an area of forest slash to reduce hazardous fuels and the risk of insect and disease, improve organic matter and reduce erosion while improving water quality. 

Slash is treated with both hand (cutting, lopping, etc.) and mechanically (masticating, chipping, etc.). Typically done by hand and light equipment. Resource concerns 

include: Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation and potential Excessive plant pest pressure.

Before Situation:

Woody material resulting from a silvicultural practice such as pruning or a light thinning operation is causing both fire hazard and pest issues. 

After Situation:

Fire and pest issues are reduced with slash spread out and in contact with the ground. Additional benefits include reduced soil movement. The soil is protected and/or 

enhanced. 

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,691.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $217.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 40 $4,719.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #42 - Chaining

Scenario Description:

The use of heavy equipment (2 dozers with winches pulling a single anchor chain) to break over, crush, and scatter standing dead trees to achieve a conservation objective 

such as improving access for management purposes, recovering desirable plant community structure, reducing plant pest pressure (eliminating avian seed-dispersing 

perches), and/or enhancing wildlife habitat (eliminating raptor perches and vertical structure).

Before Situation:

Area consists of standing dead trees caused by a previous management activity or natural disturbance. The standing dead trees limit access for management purposes, 

degrade desirable plant community structure, increase plant pest pressure, and/or degrade wildlife habitat. Typical situation is the standing dead trees are dense, located 

on steeper terrain, and have been dead for several years (long enough for roots to decompose and minimize uprooting).

After Situation:

Standing dead trees are broken over, crushed, and scattered within and amongst the lower herbaceous plant community to achieve conservation objectives such as 

improved access, improved desirable plant community structure, reduced plant pest pressure, and/or enhanced wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: Acres Treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,164.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $152.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 30 $5,538.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 15 $358.20

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 30 $1,098.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #44 - Chipping and hauling off-site

Scenario Description:

Reducing woody waste created during forestry, agroforestry activities by gathering, chipping, and hauling off site to achieve management objectives. Does not include 

transport from property to a commercial facility. Resource concerns include potential Emissions of particulate matter, potential Excessive plant pest pressure, and 

Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation .

Before Situation:

Woody residue causes management issues including resource access, fire hazard and sites for harboring pests. 

After Situation:

Fire and pest issues are reduced. Air and energy resources are conserved.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,473.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $323.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 20 $127.20

Brush Chipper, 6 in. capacity 938 Brush Chipper, 6 inch capacity, typically 35 HP. Includes chipper and 

power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $35.31 20 $706.20

Log skidder 942 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $62.23 10 $622.30

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 20 $1,115.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 60 $1,868.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

Scenario: #45 - Forest Slash Treatment - Med/Heavy 

Scenario Description:

Treating an area of significant woody plant residues to reduce hazardous fuels and the risk of insect and disease, improve organic matter, decrease unwanted habitat, and 

reduce erosion while improving water quality. Slash is to be lopped/treated/crushed within a foot of the ground or moved off site to meet state fire hazard reduction 

standards. Typically heavy equipment are used such as masticators, mulchers, drum choppers, etc. Hand work with chainsaws are used on steep slopes. Resource 

concerns include potential Emission of particulate matter, Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Excessive plant pest pressure, and Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Heavy woody material (difficult to walk through) resulting from silvicultural/management operations caused both fire hazard, access, potential harm to humans and 

animals, and pest issues. 

After Situation:

Fire, access, and pest issues are reduced with slash spread out and in contact with the ground. An additional benefit is reduced soil movement.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,211.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $255.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 40 $254.40

Heavy mechanical site prep, drum 1316

chopping

Mechanical operations that pushing trees and vegetation and crushing 

them with a water filled roller chopper. Requires heavy equipment 

such as dozers. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $151.30 40 $6,052.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #12 - PIA - Field Border

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. 

The area of the field border is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Native grasses, legumes and forbs will be established in the field border to the extent needed to meet the resource needs and 

producer objectives. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Native species shall be 

selected that do not function as a host for diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the 

field border area.

Feature Measure: acres planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.10

Scenario Total Cost: $90.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $904.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.1 $1.45

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.1 $0.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.1 $1.27

Native and Introduced Perennial 2756

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Medium Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to high density (41-60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $153.79 0.1 $15.38

Mobilization

Mobilization, Pacific Island 2679 Mobilization cost of materials for sea or air freight services between 

islands.

Pound $0.00 5 $0.00
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #31 - Field Border, Native Species, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The 

area of the field border is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Native grasses, legumes and forbs will be established in the field borders to the extent needed to meet the resource needs and 

producer objectives. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Native species shall be 

selected that do not function as a host for diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the 

field border area.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $510.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $510.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #32 - Field Border, Introduced Species, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced 

species. The area of the field border is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Introduced grasses and legumes will be established for the field border to the extent needed to meet the resource needs and 

producer objectives. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Introduced species of 

grasses, legumes, forbs or shrubs shall be selected that are adapted to site, will not function as a host for diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics 

necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the field border area.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $429.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $429.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 20 $15.80

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #33 - Field Border, Pollinator, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of pollinator friendly 

herbaceous species. The area of the field border is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Pollinator herbaceous plantings will provide species which flower throughout the growing season. This provides a source of nectar for 

adult pollinators and a diversity of herbaceous material for immature pollinator life stages and for nesting. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local 

design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Species selected shall meet the pollinator habitat requirements of the state and be adapted to site; not 

function as a host for diseases of a field crop and; have physical characteristics necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the field border area.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $844.91

Scenario Cost/Unit: $844.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #34 - Field Border, Native Species

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of organic seed for 

herbaceous species.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices while creating a buffer between organic systems and conventional cropping systems. Native grasses and legumes will be established in the field border to the 

extent needed to meet the resource needs and producer objectives. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for 

installing the practice. Species selected shall be adapted to the site, not function as a host for diseases of a field crop, and have physical characteristics necessary to control 

wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the field border area.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $200.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $200.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #35 - Field Border, Introduced Species

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced species.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Introduced grasses and legumes will be established in the field border to the extent needed to meet the resource needs and producer 

objectives. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Species selected shall be adapted to 

site, will not function as a host for diseases of a field crop, and have physical characteristics necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the field 

border area.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $119.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $119.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 20 $15.80

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #36 - Field Border, Pollinator

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of a field. This practice may also apply to recreation land or other land uses where 

agronomic crops including forages are grown. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of pollinator friendly species.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Pollinator herbaceous plantings will provide species which flower throughout the growing season. This provides a source of nectar for 

adult pollinators and a diversity of herbaceous material for immature pollinator life stages and for nesting. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local 

design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Species selected shall be adapted to site, will not function as a host for diseases of a field crop, and have 

physical characteristics necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the field border area.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $535.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $535.19

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #57 - CB/VI - Field Border

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The 

area of the field border is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary widely. Fields may have erosion issues from wind or water, a field border may be needed to manage pest populations, protect soil and 

water quality, provide wildlife food and cover, provide pollinator habitat, or a field border may be used to increase carbon storage and improve air quality. Water quality, 

soil erosion and/or wildlife food and cover may all be primary resource concerns.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. This practice when applied around a field may support and connect other buffer 

practices within and between fields. Native grasses, legumes and forbs will be established in the field border to the extent needed to meet the resource needs and 

producer objectives. Minimum field border widths shall be based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose for installing the practice. Native species shall be 

selected that do not function as a host for diseases of a field crop and have physical characteristics necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the 

field border area.

Feature Measure: Acres planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.10

Scenario Total Cost: $90.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $904.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.1 $1.45

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.1 $0.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.1 $1.27

Native and Introduced Perennial 2756

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Medium Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to high density (41-60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $153.79 0.1 $15.38

Mobilization

Mobilization, Pacific Island 2679 Mobilization cost of materials for sea or air freight services between 

islands.

Pound $0.00 5 $0.00
Practice: 386 - Field Border

Scenario: #81 - Small Scale Field Border

Scenario Description:

A strip of permanent vegetation established at the edge or around the perimeter of an agricultural field. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced plant 

species.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions may vary based on farm size and location. Fields may have erosion by wind or water. Site provides little wildlife food or cover or pollinator 

habitat. Site soil organic matter is depleting. Particulate matter as dust is generated by field activity.

After Situation:

The 386 Implementation Requirements have been developed and applied for the site. Field border widths are based on NRCS local design criteria specific to the purpose 

for installing the practices. Species selected shall be adapted to site and not host disease or pests of the adjacent field crop. Species have physical characteristics 

necessary to control wind and water erosion to tolerable levels on the field border area.

Feature Measure: planted area

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $140.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $70.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.05 $0.73

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.05 $1.09

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 10 $6.60

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 10 $7.90

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 0.1 $4.78
Practice: 388 - Irrigation Field Ditch

Scenario: #5 - Irrigation Field Ditch

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction of an Irrigation Field Ditch. Typical construction dimensions are 2' wide bottom x 2' deep x 1320' length with a side slope of 2:1. 

Resource concerns: Excess/Insufficient Water - Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water Associated Conservation Practices: 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral; 443-Irrigation 

System, Surface or Subsurface Water; 533-Pumping Plant; 430-Irrigation Pipeline.

Before Situation:

Water supply for an area is inadequate for crop production and irrigation water application is inefficient.

After Situation:

An earthen canal that has adequate capacity to convey sufficient irrigation water to meet the demands of the system and make irrigation practical for the crops being 

grown.

Feature Measure: Volume of earth excavated

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 587.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,040.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 587 $1,426.41

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #1 - Native Species

Scenario Description:

Native Species: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between terrestrial and aquatic 

habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable 

time period. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (550), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area Planting 

(342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection ( 580), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), 

Wetland Enhancement ( 659), or Wetland Restoration (657). The typical setting for this scenario is usually a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats 

subject to intermittant flooding and saturated soils where the exising plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide proper 

function and/or adequate habitat. Where the establishment of a diverse riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, an adapted mix of native grasses, legumes, 

and/or forbs tolerant to the site conditions will be planted by broadcast and/or no-till or range drill seeding methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). 

Where chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasives, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community, the Herbaceous Weed Control 

(315) practice should be used. Seedbed preparation may require LIGHT TILLAGE (disking). WHEN POLLINATOR HABITAT IS A CONSIDERATION: Include 5-10 adapted forb 

species that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season where feasible.

Before Situation:

The riparian zone, the specific area between terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation and natural 

reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time to adequately address streambank and/or shoreline 

stability, dissipate stream energy and trap sediment, improve and/or maintain water quality, and/or provide adequate habitat corridors, food and/or cover for fish, 

wildlife, pollinators, and/or livestock resource concern(s). Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by conventional mechanical 

or chemical (Herbaceous Weed Control (315)) methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting. Soil quality may be reduced due to compaction and may 

require light tillage to prepare a proper seedbed.

After Situation:

The riparian zone, the transitional zone between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close 

management to ensure long term survival and ecological succession. The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that 

depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and 

improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, 

habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $904.11

Scenario Cost/Unit: $180.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 5 $674.85
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #2 - Native Species with foregone income

Scenario Description:

Native Species: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between terrestrial and aquatic 

habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable 

time period. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (550), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area Planting 

(342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection ( 580), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), 

Wetland Enhancement ( 659), or Wetland Restoration (657). The typical setting for this scenario is a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats, subject to 

intermittant flooding and saturated soils, where the exising plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide proper function 

and/or adequate habitat. Where the establishment of a diverse riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, an adapted mix of native grasses, legumes, and/or forbs 

tolerant to the site conditions will be planted, by broadcast and/or no-till or range drill seeding methods as necessary, to accomplish the intended purpose(s). Where 

chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasives, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community, the Herbaceous Weed Control (315) 

practice should be used. Seedbed preparation may require LIGHT TILLAGE (disking). WHEN POLLINATOR HABITAT IS A CONSIDERATION: Include 5-10 adapted forb species 

that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season where feasible. All grazing will be deferred during plant establishment which will consist of a minimum of one 

year, and in many cases longer. Typically there is no haying, and the only clipping during establishment will be for removal of weeds.

Before Situation:

The riparian zone, the specific area between terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation and natural 

reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time to adequately address streambank and/or shoreline 

stability, dissipate stream energy and trap sediment, improve and/or maintain water quality, and/or provide adequate habitat corridors, food and/or cover for fish, 

wildlife, pollinators, and/or livestock resource concern(s). Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by conventional mechanical 

or chemical (Herbaceous Weed Control (315)) methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting. Soil quality may be reduced due to compaction and may 

require light tillage to prepare a proper seedbed.

After Situation:

The riparian zone, the transitional zone between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close 

management to ensure long term survival and ecological succession. The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that 

depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and 

improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, 

habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream. All grazing 

will be deferred during plant establishment which will consist of a minimum of one year, and in many cases longer. Typically there is no haying, and the only clipping 

during establishment will be for removal of weeds.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,062.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $212.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 5 $158.50

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 5 $674.85
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #3 - Native Species, Pollinator Planting

Scenario Description:

Native Species: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between terrestrial and aquatic 

habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable 

time period. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (550), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area Planting 

(342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection ( 580), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), 

Wetland Enhancement ( 659), or Wetland Restoration (657). The typical setting for this scenario is usually a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats 

subject to intermittant flooding and saturated soils where the exising plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide proper 

function and/or adequate habitat. Where the establishment of a diverse riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, an adapted mix of native grasses, legumes, 

and/or forbs tolerant to the site conditions will be planted by broadcast and/or no-till or range drill seeding methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). 

Where chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasives, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community, the Herbaceous Weed Control 

(315) practice should be used. Seedbed preparation may require LIGHT TILLAGE (disking). WHEN POLLINATOR HABITAT IS A CONSIDERATION: Include 5-10 adapted forb 

species that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season where feasible.

Before Situation:

The riparian zone, the specific area between terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation and natural 

reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time to adequately address streambank and/or shoreline 

stability, dissipate stream energy and trap sediment, improve and/or maintain water quality, and/or provide adequate habitat corridors, food and/or cover for fish, 

wildlife, pollinators, and/or livestock resource concern(s). Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by conventional mechanical 

or chemical (Herbaceous Weed Control (315)) methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting. Soil quality may be reduced due to compaction and may 

require light tillage to prepare a proper seedbed.

After Situation:

The riparian zone, the transitional zone between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close 

management to ensure long term survival and ecological succession. The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that 

depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and 

improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, 

habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,168.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $233.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 2 $939.62
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #4 - Native Species, Pollinator Planting, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

Native Species: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between terrestrial and aquatic 

habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable 

time period. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (550), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area Planting 

(342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection ( 580), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), 

Wetland Enhancement ( 659), or Wetland Restoration (657). The typical setting for this scenario is usually a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats 

subject to intermittant flooding and saturated soils where the exising plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide proper 

function and/or adequate habitat. Where the establishment of a diverse riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, an adapted mix of native grasses, legumes, 

and/or forbs tolerant to the site conditions will be planted by broadcast and/or no-till or range drill seeding methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). 

Where chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasives, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community, the Herbaceous Weed Control 

(315) practice should be used. Seedbed preparation may require LIGHT TILLAGE (disking). WHEN POLLINATOR HABITAT IS A CONSIDERATION: Include 5-10 adapted forb 

species that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season where feasible. All grazing will be deferred during plant establishment which will consist of a minimum of 

one year, and in many cases longer. Typically there is no haying, and the only clipping during establishment will be for removal of weeds.

Before Situation:

The riparian zone, the specific area between terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation and natural 

reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time to adequately address streambank and/or shoreline 

stability, dissipate stream energy and trap sediment, improve and/or maintain water quality, and/or provide adequate habitat corridors, food and/or cover for fish, 

wildlife, pollinators, and/or livestock resource concern(s). Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by conventional mechanical 

or chemical (Herbaceous Weed Control (315)) methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting. Soil quality may be reduced due to compaction and may 

require light tillage to prepare a proper seedbed.

After Situation:

The riparian zone, the transitional zone between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close 

management to ensure long term survival and ecological succession. The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that 

depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and 

improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, 

habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream. All grazing 

will be deferred during plant establishment which will consist of a minimum of one year, and in many cases longer. Typically there is no haying, and the only clipping 

during establishment will be for removal of weeds.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,327.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $265.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 5 $158.50

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 2 $939.62
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #45 - Warm Season Grass with Forbs

Scenario Description:

Warm Season Grasses with Forbs: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between 

terrestrial and aquatic habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant 

community within a reasonable time. The typical setting for this scenario is a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats subject to intermittent flooding 

and saturated soils where the existing plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide adequate habitat. Where the 

establishment of a riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, site adapted species of grasses, legumes, and/or forbs will be planted by no-till or range drill seeding 

methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). Where chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasive species, is required to reduce 

competition for the desired plant community the Herbaceous Weed Control (315) practice should be used. Seed mixes should include adapted species of warm season 

grasses and forbs. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (528), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area 

Planting (342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection (580), Vegetated Treatment 

Area (635), Wetland Enhancement (659), or Wetland Restoration (657). This practice can be used nationwide.

Before Situation:

Riparian zone vegetation is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation as determined by the NRCS Stream Visual Assessment 

Protocol. Natural reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time. Existing vegetation does not 

provide adequate food, cover, and/or connectivity for riparian wildlife, and contributes insufficient amounts of organic matter for stream species food and cover. Riparian 

vegetation quality and/or quantity have been compromised by human activities and/or access of vehicles, people, and/or livestock to the extent that the riparian area is 

not functioning to provide the necessary stream and riparian habitat components. Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by 

conventional mechanical or chemical methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting.

After Situation:

The riparian zone is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close management to insure long term survival and ecological succession. 

The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for 

stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: 

stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, 

streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.50

Scenario Total Cost: $453.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $906.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.5 $10.88

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.5 $67.49

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #46 - Plugging and Seeding

Scenario Description:

Plugging: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between terrestrial and aquatic 

habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable 

time period. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (528), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area Planting 

(342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection ( 580), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), 

Wetland Enhancement ( 659), or Wetland Restoration (657). This practice can be used nation wide. The typical setting for this scenario is usually a narrow strip between 

the aquatic and terrestrial habitats subject to intermittant flooding and saturated soils where the exising plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species 

diversity is unable to provide proper function and/or adequate habitat. Where the establishment of a diverse riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, an adapted 

mix of grasses, sedges, rushes, ferns, legumes, and/or forbs tolerant to the site conditions will be planted. Grasses such as prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata), sedges, 

rushes, and/or ferns will be planted using plugs. Additional site adapted species of grasses, legumes, and/or forbs may be added by broadcast and/or no-till or range drill 

seeding methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). Where chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasives, is required to reduce 

competition for the desired plant community the Herbaceous Weed Control (315) practice should be used. Seedbed preparation may require LIGHT TILLAGE (disking). 

WHEN POLLINATOR HABITAT IS A CONSIDERATION: Include 5-10 adapted forb species that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season where feasible. To address 

the high diversity of riparian plant communities and their adjacent stream types that exist from the tropics to the tundra, and the deserts, prairies, mountains, and 

lowlands across the various regions and/or MLRA's, up to 20 adapted riparian plant community-specific scenarios may be required

Before Situation:

The riparian zone, the specific area between terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation and natural 

reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time to adequately address streambank and/or shoreline 

stability, dissipate stream energy and trap sediment, improve and/or maintain water quality, and/or provide adequate habitat corridors, food and/or cover for fish, 

wildlife, pollinators, and/or livestock resource conern(s). Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by conventional mechanical or 

chemical (Herbaceous Weed Control (315)) methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting. 

After Situation:

The riparian zone, the transitional zone between the terrestrial and aquatic habitats, is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close 

management to insure long term survival and ecological succession. The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that 

depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and 

improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, 

habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.50

Scenario Total Cost: $1,819.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,638.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 2 $151.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #47 - Cool Season Grasses with Forbs

Scenario Description:

Cool Season Grasses with Forbs: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between 

terrestrial and aquatic habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant 

community within a reasonable time. The typical setting for this scenario is a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats subject to intermittent flooding 

and saturated soils where the existing plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide adequate habitat. Where the 

establishment of a riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, site adapted species of grasses, legumes, and/or forbs will be planted by no-till or range drill seeding 

methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). Where chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasive species, is required to reduce 

competition for the desired plant community the Herbaceous Weed Control (315) practice should be used. Seed mixes should include adapted species of warm season 

grasses and forbs. This scenario applies to work not covered under NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (528), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area 

Planting (342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection (580), Vegetated Treatment 

Area (635), Wetland Enhancement (659), or Wetland Restoration (657). This practice can be used nationwide.

Before Situation:

Riparian zone vegetation is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation as determined by the NRCS Stream Visual Assessment 

Protocol. Natural reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time. Existing vegetation does not 

provide adequate food, cover, and/or connectivity for riparian wildlife, and contributes insufficient amounts of organic matter for stream species food and cover. Riparian 

vegetation quality and/or quantity have been compromised by human activities and/or access of vehicles, people, and/or livestock to the extent that the riparian area is 

not functioning to provide the necessary stream and riparian habitat components. Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by 

conventional mechanical or chemical methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting.

After Situation:

The riparian zone is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close management to insure long term survival and ecological succession. 

The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for 

stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: 

stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, 

streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.50

Scenario Total Cost: $453.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $906.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.5 $10.88

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.5 $67.49

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario: #48 - Pollinator Habitat

Scenario Description:

Pollinator Habitat: This scenario addresses inadequate herbaceous plant community function or diversity within the specific transitional zone between terrestrial and 

aquatic habitats in rangeland, pasture, cropland, and forest where natural seeding methods and/or management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a 

reasonable time. The typical setting for this scenario is a narrow strip between the aquatic and terrestrial habitats subject to intermittent flooding and saturated soils 

where the existing plant community has been disturbed, destroyed, or the species diversity is unable to provide adequate habitat. Where the establishment of a diverse 

riparian herbaceous plant community is desired, an adapted mix of grasses, sedges, rushes, ferns, legumes, and/or forbs tolerant to the site conditions will be planted. 

Site adapted species of grasses, legumes, and/or forbs will be planted by no-till or range drill seeding methods as necessary to accomplish the intended purpose(s). Where 

chemical control of undesirable vegetation, including invasive species, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community the Herbaceous Weed Control 

(315) practice should be used. Include 5-10 adapted forb species that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season. This scenario applies to work not covered under 

NRCS Conservation Practice Range Planting (528), Forage and Biomass Planting (512), Critical Area Planting (342), Filter Strip (393), Restoration and Management of Rare 

and Declining Habitats (643), Streambank and Shoreline Protection (580), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), Wetland Enhancement (659), or Wetland Restoration (657). 

This practice can be used nationwide.

Before Situation:

Riparian zone vegetation is currently an undesirable or inadequate stand of perennial or annual vegetation as determined by the NRCS Stream Visual Assessment 

Protocol. Natural reseeding or vegetation management is unlikely to improve the plant community within a reasonable amount of time. Existing vegetation does not 

provide adequate food, cover, and/or connectivity for riparian wildlife, and contributes insufficient amounts of organic matter for stream species food and cover. Riparian 

vegetation quality and/or quantity have been compromised by human activities and/or access of vehicles, people, and/or livestock to the extent that the riparian area is 

not functioning to provide the necessary stream and riparian habitat components. Existing conditions often require suppression or eradication of current vegetation by 

conventional mechanical or chemical methods to ensure establishment success of the new planting.

After Situation:

The riparian zone is established to an adapted, diverse vegetative plant community and is under close management to insure long term survival and ecological succession. 

The quality and quantity of the riparian zone components are managed to support the species that depend on it for habitat as well as the functions it performs for 

stabilizing the streambank and/or shoreline, dissipating stream energy and trapping sediment, and improving and/or maintaining water quality. These functions include: 

stream temperature moderation through shading, recruitment of non-woody organic matter, habitat for terrestrial insects and other riparian dependent species, 

streambank integrity, and filtration of contaminants from surface run-off into the stream.

Feature Measure: Acres of Riparian Herbaceous Cover

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.50

Scenario Total Cost: $651.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,303.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.5 $10.88

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 0.5 $234.91

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #1 - Direct Seeding (FI)

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs to restore riparian plant communities and associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to, and up-gradient from, a 

watercourse or water body, extending a minimum of 35 feet wide and 3000 feet long. The planting will consist of trees or shrubs planted through direct seeding. Planting 

rate will be approximately 3000 seeds per acre. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics 

in surface waters and elevated water temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - 

habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for terrestrial wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established through broadcasting seeds, nuts, and mast (fruit of woody species), and mechanically raking to provide seed to soil 

contact along the riparian corridor. This will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above mentioned resource concerns. Seedbed 

preparation prior to seeding will be conducted using 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.50

Scenario Total Cost: $3,798.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,519.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2.5 $36.35

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 2.5 $35.38

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.9 $317.23

FI, Corn Irrigated 1960 Irrigated Corn is Primary Crop Acres $478.93 0.8 $383.14

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.8 $213.56

Materials

Trees and shrubs, seed 1871 Tree or shrub seed, e.g., acorns, to establish trees. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Pound $9.36 235 $2,199.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #2 - Bare-root, machine planted (FI)

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and provide other associated benefits. The buffer will be 

located adjacent to, and up-gradient from, a watercourse or water body, extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of machine planted bare-root 

shrubs, evergreen, and deciduous trees in rows. Area will be planted using 3 rows and will use each of the woody plant types. Spacing between plants in each row: shrubs 

will be 6' , evergreen tree spacing will be 12', and deciduous tree spacing will be 15'. Tree rows will be 15' apart. A total tree row length of 3000'. Tree shelters will be 

placed on the hardwoods and evergreens. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics in 

surface waters and elevated water temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - habitat 

degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,081.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,027.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 10 $366.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 4 $73.20

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 10 $60.20

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1 $352.48

FI, Corn Irrigated 1960 Irrigated Corn is Primary Crop Acres $478.93 1 $478.93

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 500 $885.00

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 200 $404.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 250 $240.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 250 $385.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1565

x 36 in

4 inch x 36 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $3.90 200 $780.00

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. 1577 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.01 450 $454.50
Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #3 - Small container, machine planted (FI)

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and other associated benefits. The buffer will be located 

adjacent to, and up-gradient from, a watercourse or water body, extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of machine planted containerized shrubs, 

evergreen, and deciduous trees in rows. Area will be planted using 3 rows. Spacing between plants in-rows: shrub spacing will be 6' , evergreen tree spacing will be 12', 

and deciduous tree spacing will be 15'. Tree rows will be 15' apart. Tree row is a total length of 3000'. Tree shelters will be placed on hardwoods and evergreens. 

Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics in surface waters and elevated water 

temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,179.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,059.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 20 $733.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 20 $120.40

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1 $352.48

FI, Corn Irrigated 1960 Irrigated Corn is Primary Crop Acres $478.93 1 $478.93

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 60 $1,432.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Large 1515 Containerized conifer seedlings, 15 or 20 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 2+1 (three-year old seedlings that grew two years in 

the original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed) or bare root 

seedlings 3+0 and older (three-year or older seedlings grown in their 

original seedbed, or transplanted seedlings). Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.73 950 $1,643.50

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1565

x 36 in

4 inch x 36 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $3.90 200 $780.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 250 $1,322.50

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 450 $972.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #15 - Seeding

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs to restore riparian plant communities and provide associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to and up-gradient 

from a watercourse or water body and will be at least 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of trees and/or shrubs planted through direct broadcast seeding, incorporated 

with light tillage. The planting rate will be approximately 30 pounds of seeds per acre. Resource concerns to be addressed are: Nutrients Transported to Surface Water; 

Sediment Transported to Surface Water; Bank Erosion from Streams, Shorelines or Water Conveyance Channels; Elevated Water Temperature; Plant Structure and 

Composition; Plant Productivity and Health; Terrestrial Habitat for Wildlife and Invertebrates; Aquatic Habitat for Fish and other Organisms.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests, and habitat used for forage, cropland, associated ag land, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts or 

types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area and/or in the water. Water temperature is high due to lack of 

shade. Habitat is not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs has been established along the riparian corridor to provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,962.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $396.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 10 $141.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Trees and shrubs, seed 1871 Tree or shrub seed, e.g., acorns, to establish trees. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Pound $9.36 300 $2,808.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #16 - Cuttings

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to 

and up-gradient from a watercourse or water body extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of tree and/or shrub poles and live stakes (whips) 

planted by hand. Materials will be from a nearby, off-site location. The ratio of whips to poles will be 5:1. The cuttings will be planted in a mosaic pattern while still 

dormant. Tree mesh will be placed on the large cuttings. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment 

and organics in surface waters and elevated temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and 

Wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,728.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,728.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 10 $99.80

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 10 $183.00

Tractor, agricultural, 30 HP 1501 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of less than 50. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $17.10 10 $171.00

Trailer, flatbed, small 1505 Small flatbed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a pickup 

to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $10.46 10 $104.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 10 $125.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 70 $1,671.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1308

Medium

Woody cuttings, live stakes or whips typically 1/4 to 1 inch diameter 

and 24 to 48 inches long. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $2.01 250 $502.50

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1309

Large

Woody pole cuttings or posts 2 to 6 inches in diameter and 6 ft. long. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $11.13 50 $556.50

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 50 $77.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #17 - Bare-root, hand planted

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to 

and up-gradient from a watercourse or water body extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of hand planted bare-root shrubs, evergreen, and 

deciduous trees. One third of the area will be planted to each woody plant type. Planting for shrubs will be done at 6' x 6' spacing, evergreen tree spacing will be 12' x 15' 

and deciduous tree spacing at 15' x 15'. Tree shelters will be placed on the hardwoods and evergreens. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive 

bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics in surface waters and elevated temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and 

composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,523.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,174.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 16 $232.96

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 112 $2,674.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 1210 $2,141.70

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 194 $391.88

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 242 $232.32

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1565

x 36 in

4 inch x 36 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $3.90 436 $1,700.40

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. 1577 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.01 436 $440.36
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #18 - Bare-root, machine planted

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to 

and up-gradient from a watercourse or water body extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of machine planted bare-root shrubs, evergreen, and 

deciduous trees. One third of the area will be planted to each woody plant type. Planting for shrubs will be done at 6' x 6' spacing, evergreen tree spacing will be 12' x 15' 

and deciduous tree spacing at 15' x 15'. Tree shelters will be placed on the hardwoods and evergreens. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive 

bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics in surface waters and elevated temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and 

composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,620.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,206.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 8 $293.44

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 8 $48.16

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 1210 $2,141.70

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 194 $391.88

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 242 $232.32

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1565

x 36 in

4 inch x 36 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $3.90 436 $1,700.40

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. 1577 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.01 436 $440.36
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #19 - Small container, hand planted

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to 

and up-gradient from a watercourse or water body extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of hand planted small containerized shrubs, evergreen, 

and deciduous trees. All seedlings will be planted at 15 foot by 15 foot spacing. Shrubs will be planted immediately adjacent to the waterbody. Tree shelters wil be 

placed on all plant materials. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics in surface waters 

and elevated temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,374.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,124.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 16 $232.96

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 112 $2,674.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 194 $1,511.26

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 194 $1,689.74

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 194 $1,486.04

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 194 $298.76

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 194 $488.88

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 194 $1,026.26

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 582 $1,257.12
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #20 - Small container, machine planted

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and associated benefits. The buffer will be located adjacent to 

and up-gradient from a watercourse or water body extending a minimum of 35 feet wide. The planting will consist of machine planted small containerized shrubs, 

evergreen, and deciduous trees. All seedlings will be planted at 15 feet by 15 feet spacing. Shrubs will be planted immediately adjacent to the water body. Tree shelters 

will be placed on all plant materials. Resource concerns to be addressed are Soil Erosion - excessive bank erosion; Water Quality - excess sediment and organics in surface 

waters and elevated temperature; Degraded Plant Condition - inadequate structure and composition; and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Typical sites include former riparian forests and habitat used for forage, cropland, speculation property, or other nonforest condition which contains undesirable amounts 

or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is depositing sediment, nutrients and organics in the riparian area. Water temperature is high due to lack of shade. Habitat is 

not desirable for wildlife.

After Situation:

A buffer of trees and shrubs will be established along the riparian corridor which will provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address the above 

mentioned resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,471.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,157.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 8 $293.44

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 8 $48.16

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 194 $1,511.26

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 194 $1,689.74

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 194 $1,486.04

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 194 $298.76

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 194 $488.88

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 194 $1,026.26

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 582 $1,257.12
Practice: 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

Scenario: #21 - Large container, hand planted

Scenario Description:

Establish a buffer of trees and/or shrubs into a suitably prepared site to restore riparian plant communities and provide conservation benefits. The buffer will be located 

adjacent to a watercourse or waterbody and designed with dimensions and plant spacings that fully implement the practice. The planting will consist of hand-planted large 

shrubs, evergreen, and deciduous trees. Tree shelters will be placed on all trees and shrubs. Resource concerns include: Plant productivity and health, Plant structure 

and composition, Sediment transported to surface water, Nutrients transported to surface water, Elevated water temperature, Pesticides transported to surface 

water, Pathogens and chemicals from manure, biosolids, or compost applications transported to surface water, Bank erosion from streams, shorelines, or water 

conveyance channels, Terrestrial habitat for wildlife and invertebrates, Aquatic habitat for fish and other organisms.

Before Situation:

Typical settings include degraded or converted riparian forests, and nonforest conditions with undesirable amounts or types of vegetation. Active bank erosion is 

contributing sediment, nutrients, pesticides, pathogens, chemicals, or organics into surface waters. Water temperature is elevated due to lack of shade. Habitat is not 

desirable for fish, wildlife or invertebrates.

After Situation:

A riparian buffer of trees and shrubs has been restored and is functioning properly to provide stability, filtration, shade, and desirable habitat to address identified 

resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,550.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,183.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 35 $509.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 70 $875.70

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 70 $1,671.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 35 $1,764.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Medium 1527 Potted shrub seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $14.34 100 $1,434.00

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 50 $789.00

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Medium 1537 Potted conifer seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.80 50 $690.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 50 $77.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 100 $252.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 50 $333.50

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 400 $28.00

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 200 $486.00

Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #13 - Caribbean and Virgin Island Filter Strip - All Species

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced species.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring nonagricultural properties. Water Quality resource concerns are 

associated with this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of introduced species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. 

The practice includes seedbed preparation, seeding, and operation and maintenance to maintain the vegetation and the function of the filter strip. Species selected shall 

be able to withstand partial burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on contribution area while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas.

Feature Measure: acre planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $124.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $124.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #25 - Filter Strip, Native species, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The area of the 

filter strip is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring non-ag properties. Water Quality resource concerns are associated with 

this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of native species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes seedbed preparation, seeding, and seed. Species selected shall be able to withstand partial burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on the 

contribution area while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas. The area of the filter strip is taken out of production.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $595.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $595.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1.5 $27.45

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2751

Medium Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $192.81 1 $192.81
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #26 - Filter Strip, Introduced species, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced species. The area of 

the filter strip is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring non-ag properties. Water Quality resource concerns are associated with 

this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of introduced species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes seedbed preparation, seeding, and seed. Species selected shall be able to withstand partial burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on 

contribution area while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas. The area of the filter strip is taken out of production.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $534.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $534.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1.5 $27.45

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 20 $15.80

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #27 - Filter Strip, Native species

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring nonagricultural properties. Water Quality resource concerns are 

associated with this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of native species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes seedbed preparation, seeding, and seed. Species selected shall be able to withstand partial burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on 

contribution area while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $285.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $285.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1.5 $27.45

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2751

Medium Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $192.81 1 $192.81
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #28 - Filter Strip, Introduced species

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced species.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring nonagricultural properties. Water Quality resource concerns are 

associated with this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of introduced species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes seedbed preparation, seeding, and seed. Species selected shall be able to withstand partial burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on 

contribution area while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $224.81

Scenario Cost/Unit: $224.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1.5 $27.45

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 20 $15.80

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #45 - PIA - Filter Strip - All Species

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of introduced species.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally-sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring nonagricultural properties. Water Quality resource concerns are 

associated with this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of introduced species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes seedbed preparation, seeding, and operation and maintenance to maintain the vegetation and the function of the filter strip. Species selected shall be 

able to withstand partial burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on contribution area while protecting environmentally-sensitive areas.

Feature Measure: Acre planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $124.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $124.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1 $47.76
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #55 - Filter Strip, Native Species, Moderate Grading

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring nonagricultural properties. Water Quality resource concerns are 

associated with this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of native species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes moderate grading to ensure even flow through the filter strip, seedbed preparation, seeding, and seed. Species selected shall be able to withstand partial 

burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on contribution area while protecting environmentally sensitive areas.

Feature Measure: number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,520.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,520.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1.5 $27.45

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2751

Medium Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $192.81 1 $192.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 393 - Filter Strip

Scenario: #56 - Filter Strip, Native species, Moderate Grading, Forgone Income

Scenario Description:

A strip or area of herbaceous vegetation that removes contaminants from overland flow. Practice includes seedbed prep and planting of native species. The area of the 

filter strip is taken out of production.

Before Situation:

Annual cropland, grazing land, or disturbed land (including forestland) allows for runoff of suspended solids, dissolved and/or associated contaminants into 

environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands, riparian zones, critical habitat and neighboring non-ag properties. Water Quality resource concerns are associated with 

this practice.

After Situation:

The 393 Implementation Requirements are developed for the site and applied. The planned filter strip will be established and maintained per the practice plan that will 

meet the criteria for the planned purpose(s). The vegetation will consist of native species. The filter strip will have adequate width to filter the planned pollutants. The 

practice includes moderate grading to ensure even flow through the filter strip, seedbed preparation, seeding, and seed. Species selected shall be able to withstand partial 

burial by sediment and tolerant of herbicides used on the contribution area while protecting environmentally sensitive areas. The area of the filter strip is taken out of 

production.

Feature Measure: Number of acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,829.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,829.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 3 $43.62

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1.5 $27.45

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.5 $176.24

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.5 $133.48

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2751

Medium Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $192.81 1 $192.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #1 - Vegetated, permanent, grass

Scenario Description:

Establishing 2 acres (30 foot wide strip approximately 1/2 mile in length) of permanent vegetation that will serve as a green firebreak. Scenario includes clearing the site, 

preparing the seedbed, seeding (typically cool season grasses and/or legumes), and applying needed soil amendments. Clearing will be achieved with the use of a bush 

hog or similar equipment. Seedbed preparation and vegetation establishment will be accomplished with farm equipment. Soil amendments will be applied according to 

local FOTG guidance. This scenario does not include follow-up maintenance operations such as weed control. mowing, etc. Resource concerns include Wildfire hazard 

from excessive biomass accumulation, Soil erosion, and Excessive sediment in surface waters. 

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned. Wildlife habitat will also be enhanced and the potential for erosion from the 

firebreak is minimized.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $359.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 1.8 $39.76

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1.8 $13.82

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1.8 $39.17

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 72 $47.52

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 108 $85.32

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 1.8 $85.97
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #2 - Mowing

Scenario Description:

Installation of a short vegetative firebreak a minimum width of 30' around a 40 acre field/farm using a bush-hog mower. Generally water control devices such as water 

bars are not needed due either to the lack of steep terrain or the temporary nature of the firebreak. Resource concerns include Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass 

accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, and Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: 100 Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 52.80

Scenario Total Cost: $167.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #3 - Constructed, Tillage

Scenario Description:

Use of medium equipment such as small dozers to blade, disk, plow, etc. to create a 30' wide bare-soil firebreaks on slopes less than 15% around a 40 acre field. Resource 

concerns include Wildfire hazards from excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, and 

Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Conditions such as topography, the presence of brush 

and trees, etc. make the use of typical farm equipment impractical. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned and the potential for excessive erosion from the firebreak is negligible.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $936.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 14.6 $322.51

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #4 - Constructed - Medium equipment, Dozer

Scenario Description:

Use of equipment such as small dozers to blade bare-soil firebreaks. Resource concerns include Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant 

productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, Habitat degradation, Soil erosion, and Excessive sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Conditions such as topography, the presence of brush 

and trees, etc. make the use of typical farm equipment impractical. As slopes increase, the potential for excessive erosion increases from soil disturbances. Therefore the 

installation of water control devices such as water bars will be important in protecting the resource base. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned and the potential for excessive erosion from the firebreak is minimized.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,271.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #5 - Constructed - hand cleared

Scenario Description:

Installing a bare-ground firebreak with a width of 8' or more on gently to strongly sloping slopes with hand tools and labor in timbered areas. Resource concerns include 

Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, Habitat degradation, Soil 

erosion, and Excessive sediment in surface waters. 

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Hand cleared firebreaks are needed due to vegetation, 

topography, high wildfire risk or to their use as down-wind breaks for prescribed burns. Conditions such as topography, the presence of brush and trees, etc. make the use 

of typical equipment impractical. As slopes increase, the potential for excessive erosion increases from soil disturbances. Therefore the installation of water control 

devices such as water bars will be important in protecting the resource base. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned and the potential for excessive erosion from the firebreak is minimized.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $763.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #6 - Constructed, tree clearing

Scenario Description:

Installation of a short vegetative firebreak a minimum width of 50' on the upwind side of unit and 100' on the downwind side of unit around an entire 160 acre field/farm 

using mechanical trees shears, chainsaws, and bush hog mowers. Vegetation is reduced in height but not down to bare mineral soil. Generally water control devices such 

as water bars are not needed due either to the lack of steep terrain or the temporary nature of the firebreak. Typical slopes are between 5 and 45%. Resource concerns 

include Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, and Habitat 

degradation.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 10,560.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,382.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 20 $1,148.40

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 20 $127.20

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 10 $318.90

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 40 $4,719.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 70 $2,179.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #12 - Constructed - Medium equipment, flat-medium slopes

Scenario Description:

Use of medium equipment such as small dozers to blade, disk, plow, etc. 10' wide bare-soil firebreaks on slopes less than 15%. Generally, water control devices such as 

water bars are limited to 10 or less per 1,000 feet when properly planned and installed using the same equipment. Resource concerns include Wildfire hazards from 

excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, and Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Conditions such as topography, the presence of brush 

and trees, etc. make the use of typical farm equipment impractical. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned and the potential for excessive erosion from the firebreak is negligible.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,228.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Water Bars 1500 Installation of graded trail water controlling structures such as water 

bars, broad based dips for erosion control. Typical cross section is 1.5 

feet high with 4:1 side slopes yielding about 0.33 CY/ft of length.

Feet $3.06 325 $994.50

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #13 - Constructed - Medium equipment, steep slopes

Scenario Description:

Use of equipment such as small dozers to blade 10' wide bare-soil firebreaks on slopes greater than 15%. Water control devices such as water bars placed at 

approximately 15 to 25 per 1,000 ft section of firebreak, are necessary to control erosion. These will be installed with the same equipment. Resource concerns include 

Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, Habitat degradation, Soil 

erosion, and Excessive sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Conditions such as topography, the presence of brush 

and trees, etc. make the use of typical farm equipment impractical. As slopes increase, the potential for excessive erosion increases from soil disturbances. Therefore the 

installation of water control devices such as water bars will be important in protecting the resource base. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned and the potential for excessive erosion from the firebreak is minimized.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,152.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Water Bars 1500 Installation of graded trail water controlling structures such as water 

bars, broad based dips for erosion control. Typical cross section is 1.5 

feet high with 4:1 side slopes yielding about 0.33 CY/ft of length.

Feet $3.06 300 $918.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #14 - Constructed - Light Equipment

Scenario Description:

Installation of a bare-ground firebreak of a minimum width of 15' around a 20 acre field/farm using farm equipment (2 passes). Generally water control devices such as 

water bars are not needed due either to the lack of steep terrain or the temporary nature of the firebreak. Resource concerns include Wildfire hazard from excessive 

biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, and Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Installation will be accomplished by making two passes 

with the use of typical farm equipment such as tractors, plows, disks, or similar implements. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: 100 Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $172.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 2 $44.18

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76
Practice: 394 - Firebreak

Scenario: #15 - Constructed - Wide, bladed or disked firebreak

Scenario Description:

Installing a bare-ground firebreak with a width of 30' or more on gently to strongly sloping slopes with equipment such as a dozer with a heavy disk. Using smaller 

equipment, erosion control devices such as water bars will be installed at approximately 15 to 25 per 1,000 feet of firebreak length. Devices will have stable outlets. 

Resource concerns include Wildfire hazard from excessive biomass accumulation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate plant structure and composition, 

Habitat degradation, Soil erosion, and Excessive sediment in surface waters. 

Before Situation:

Tract, field, or farm lacks adequate firebreaks to either reduce the spread of wildfires or contain a prescribed burn. Wide firebreaks are needed due to topography, high 

wildfire risk or to their use as down-wind breaks for prescribed burns. Conditions such as topography, the presence of brush and trees, etc. make the use of typical farm 

equipment impractical. As slopes increase, the potential for excessive erosion increases from soil disturbances. Therefore the installation of water control devices such as 

water bars will be important in protecting the resource base. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately protected from wildfire or can be safely prescribe burned and the potential for excessive erosion from the firebreak is minimized.

Feature Measure: Length of firebreak

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,597.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Fire Plow 1306 Heavy wildland plow or disk used for installing firebreaks. Equipment 

costs only for plow, use with a dozer component. Labor not included.

Hours $36.63 4 $146.52

Water Bars 1500 Installation of graded trail water controlling structures such as water 

bars, broad based dips for erosion control. Typical cross section is 1.5 

feet high with 4:1 side slopes yielding about 0.33 CY/ft of length.

Feet $3.06 800 $2,448.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 12 $439.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management

Scenario: #2 - Instream wood placement

Scenario Description:

This scenario involves placement of large wood (logs, root wads, log structures) into a stream channel in order to improve aquatic habitat that currently does not meet 

planning criteria for stream species habitat. A stream assessment (i.e. Stream Visual Assessment Protocol) should be conducted in order to document habitat components 

lacking for aquatic species (i.e. large wood, pools). A project design for wood placement will be based on an assessment of the target stream reach characteristics and 

those of a suitable reference reach. These characteristics include channel geometry, channel slope, stream bottom substrate size and composition, and the geomorphic 

setting influencing the channel form, pattern and profile. Large wood and root wads placed into the stream will mimic genus, age, and size of mature trees found in intact, 

reference riparian areas in the MLRA where the project is located. Large wood/trees with root wads intact should be placed in streams to create pool habitat according to 

NRCS engineering specifications and with close review & approval of a fish habitat biologist. Boulders placed to provide ballast shall only be used if the geomorphic setting 

and project design demand this component. The planned activity will meet the current 395 standard, and facilitating practice standards utilized, including timing of work 

windows required for protected aquatic and riparian species, and protecting/restoring vegetation and substrates of/to areas impacted by heavy equipment. 

Implementation will result in the improvement of instream habitat complexity, hiding and resting cover, and/or increased food availability for fish and other stream 

species. Payment for implementation is to defray the costs of project implementation. Monitoring records, demonstrating implementation of this scenario addressing 

resource concerns for stream species of concern, are required. 

Before Situation:

In this stream reach, habitat for fish, aquatic insects and/or other stream species, is sub-optimal (as determined by the NRCS Stream Visual Assessment Protocol score of 

less than 5 overall). The site does not have adequate food, cover, and/or habitat connectivity for desired species. Riparian vegetation quality and/or quantity may also be 

compromised to the extent that the riparian area and floodplain are not functioning to provide necessary stream and riparian habitat components, such as large wood.

After Situation:

Stream habitat within the project reach is improving as a result of placing logs, root wads, and/or wood structures in the channel and/or along the stream bank. Hiding 

cover, food availability, refuge and pool habitat, for all stream species in the reach, is improving. 

Feature Measure: Bankfull width x reach length

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,992.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18,992.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 20 $408.80

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 30 $645.30

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 1 $52.20

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1309

Large

Woody pole cuttings or posts 2 to 6 inches in diameter and 6 ft. long. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $11.13 300 $3,339.00

Boulder 1761 Rock boulders (approximately 5 ft dia. 6.67 Tons). Includes materials 

and delivery (up to 100 miles) only. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $94.75 40 $3,790.00

Steel, rebar 1832 Steel rebar, grade 60. Materials only. Pound $0.76 50 $38.00

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 15 $271.20

Log, un-anchored 2035 Price of log picked up at the Mill. Includes material only. Ton $176.38 30 $5,291.40

Root Wad 2045 Tree stump buried into the streambank with the roots left exposed. 

Includes material only.

Ton $7.93 20 $158.60

Mobilization
Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.941 $931.94
Practice: 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management

Scenario: #3 - Instream rock placement

Scenario Description:

This scenario describes the implementation of a stream habitat improvement and management project that places rock structures, individual boulders or boulder clusters 

in or adjacent to the stream channel as habitat components. A project design for boulder placement will be based on assessment of the target stream reach 

characteristics and those of a suitable reference reach. These characteristics include channel geometry, channel slope, stream bottom substrate size and composition, and 

the geomorphic setting influencing the channel form, pattern and profile. Large rocks/boulders placed in the stream channel will mimic geologic material sizes typically 

present in the watershed or observed in intact, reference stream reaches in the MLRA where the project is located. Boulders should be placed in streams to create pool 

habitat and hydraulic complexity according to NRCS engineering specifications and with close review & approval of a fish habitat biologist onsite during implementation of 

the project design. Spawning gravel placement should be placed to restore spawning area substrates potentially disturbed by rock placement. The planned activity will 

meet the current 395 standard, and facilitating practice standards utilized. Implementation will result in the improvement of instream habitat complexity, hiding and 

resting cover, spawning habitat, and/or increased food availability for fish and other stream species. Payment for implementation is to defray the costs of stream habitat 

assessment, and project implementation. Records, demonstrating implementation of this scenario addressing resource concerns for stream species of concern, are 

required. 

Before Situation:

In this stream reach, habitat for fish, aquatic insects and other stream species is sub-optimal (as determined by the NRCS Stream Visual Assessment Protocol score of less 

than 5 overall). The site does not have adequate food, cover, and/or habitat connectivity for desired species. Riparian vegetation quality and/or quantity may be 

compromised to the extent that the riparian area and floodplain are not functioning to provide necessary stream and riparian habitat components, such as large wood, 

leaf matter, and shade. 

After Situation:

Stream habitat within the project reach is improving as a result of placing boulders or constructing rock structures in the channel and/or along the stream bank. Hydraulic 

complexity of the habitat in the reach is increased, and hiding cover, food availability and refuge habitat for stream species is improving. Streambank vegetation is 

increasing and contributing to stability of the streambanks. 

Feature Measure: Bankfull width x reach length

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,733.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15,733.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 30 $613.20

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 120 $2,581.20

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1309

Large

Woody pole cuttings or posts 2 to 6 inches in diameter and 6 ft. long. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Boulder 1761 Rock boulders (approximately 5 ft dia. 6.67 Tons). Includes materials 

and delivery (up to 100 miles) only. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $94.75 60 $5,685.00

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 20 $361.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management

Scenario: #4 - Rock and wood structures

Scenario Description:

This scenario describes the implementation of a stream habitat improvement and management project where practices are focused on instream habitat improvement 

with a combination of rock AND wood structures. This senario involves placement of large wood and rock structures into a stream channel in order to improve aquatic 

habitat that currently does not meet planning criteria for stream species habitat. A stream assessment (i.e. Stream Visual Assessment Protocol) should be conducted in 

order to document habitat components (such as large wood, pools ) are not currently present in the stream or are limited for aquatic species. A project design for 

placement of habitat structures (boulders, boulder clusters, wood, wood structures) will be based on an assessment of (a) the target stream reach characteristics and (b) 

those of a suitable reference reach. These characteristics include channel geometry, channel slope, stream bottom substrate size and composition, and the geomorphic 

setting influencing the channel form, pattern and profile. Large rocks/boulders placed in the stream channel will mimic geologic material sizes typically present in the 

watershed or observed in intact, reference stream reaches in the MLRA where the project is located. Rock boulder sizes should also reflect the geomorphic setting of the 

stream reach. Large wood placed into the stream under this scenario should be similar in species, age, and size (diameter) as trees found in the surrounding riparian area, 

to the extent possible. Wood, boulders and/or boulder clusters will be placed in the stream to create pool habitat and hydraulic complexity according to NRCS engineering 

specifications and with close review & approval of a fish habitat biologist onsite during the planning and implementation of the project. This scenario involves restoring 

one acre of stream. The planned activity will meet the current 395 standard, and facilitating practice standards utilized. Implementation will result in the improvement of 

instream habitat complexity, hiding and resting cover, and/or increased food availability for fish and other stream species. Payment for implementation is to defray the 

costs of project implementation. Records demonstrating implementation of this scenario addressing resource concerns for stream species of concern will be required. 

Before Situation:

In this stream reach, habitat for fish, aquatic insects and/or other stream species is sub-optimal as determined by the NRCS Stream Visual Assessment Protocol score of 

less than 5. The site does not have adequate food, cover, and/or habitat connectivity for desired species. Riparian vegetation quality and/or quantity may be compromised 

to the extent that the riparian area and floodplain are not functioning to provide necessary stream habitat components, such as large wood and off-channel refuge 

habitat. 

After Situation:

Stream habitat within the project reach is improving as a result of placing logs, rocks, or constructing wood and rock structures in the channel and/or along the stream 

bank. Hiding cover, food availability, refuge and pool habitat, for all stream species in the reach, is improving. 

Feature Measure: Bankfull width x reach length

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $34,331.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $34,331.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 180 $9,072.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 17 $347.48

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 60 $1,290.60
Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 1 $52.20

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1309

Large

Woody pole cuttings or posts 2 to 6 inches in diameter and 6 ft. long. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $11.13 300 $3,339.00

Boulder 1761 Rock boulders (approximately 5 ft dia. 6.67 Tons). Includes materials 

and delivery (up to 100 miles) only. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $94.75 40 $3,790.00

Steel, rebar 1832 Steel rebar, grade 60. Materials only. Pound $0.76 8 $6.08

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 7 $126.56

Log, un-anchored 2035 Price of log picked up at the Mill. Includes material only. Ton $176.38 30 $5,291.40

Root Wad 2045 Tree stump buried into the streambank with the roots left exposed. 

Includes material only.

Ton $7.93 10 $79.30

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management

Scenario: #5 - Fish Barrier

Scenario Description:

This scenario describes the implementation of a stream habitat improvement and management project where practices are focused on the stream channel. The planned 

activity will meet the current 395 standard, and facilitating practice standards utilized. Implementation will result in protecting native aquatic fauna in the reach from 

competition or harrassament from non-native fish. This action may also increase food availability for fish and other stream species located above the constructed barrier. 

Payment for implementation is to defray the costs of stream habitat assessment above the barrier, and project implementation. Records demonstrating that the 

implementation of this scenario will address resource concerns for aquatic and riparian species of concern will be required.

Before Situation:

In this stream corridor, native aquatic species are at risk as determined by the state fish and wildlife agency. NRCS Stream Visual Assessment Protocol for the reach being 

protected by a barrier meets planning criteria and provides habitat for native species of concern, as determined by a Stream Visual Assessment Protocol score of greater 

than 5 . 

After Situation:

Native fish inhabiting areas upstream of the newly constructed concrete barrier will not be adversely affected by interactions with non-native species/competitors. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $46,363.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,272.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 60 $35,802.60

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 10 $1,463.80

Truck, Concrete Pump 1211 Concrete pump, normally truck mounted. Use this item in association 

with other concrete components when job requires placement by other 

than normal chutes. Include drive and setup time in quantity; 

therefore, do not include mobilization. Includes equipment and 

operator.

Hours $160.01 36 $5,760.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Steel, rebar 1832 Steel rebar, grade 60. Materials only. Pound $0.76 40 $30.40

Plywood, 3/4 inch, untreated 1833 Untreated 4 x 8 ft. sheets of 3/4 inch exterior grade plywood. Includes 

materials only.

Each $39.15 15 $587.25

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 396 - Aquatic Organism Passage

Scenario: #1 - Blockage Removal

Scenario Description:

Removal of passage barriers, including small relict earthen diversions (remnant formations, e.g., splash dams), failing or undersized culverts, and sediment or large woody 

material (>10cm diameter and 2m length) from mass wasting or major flood events. Instream material associated with the previously mentioned circumstances or 

structures prevents aquatic organism passage by the creation of channel-spanning blockages, or areas of shallow depth, high velocities, or extensive changes in water 

surface elevation. In addition, these features may encourage abrupt channel changes that endanger adjacent capital infrastructure or transportation corridors. Excessive 

streambank erosion by flows deflected around or impounded behind these features may impair water quality by introducing fine sediment out of phase with the natural 

hydrography and the life history requirements of native aquatic species. Removal is done with an assortment of equipment, including tracked excavators outfitted with 

buckets with 'thumbs', bull dozers, skid steers, front-end loaders, and dump trucks. The channel and adjacent floodplain are restored to pre-blockage conditions to the 

fullest extent practicable. Removed materials are trucked away and disposed of or recycled offsite, unless native streambed material found in the blockage can be used in 

site reclamation. Large woody material, if present, is used for instream reclamation, replaced in the channel downstream of the blockage, or trucked offsite for disposal or 

stockpiling for future projects. Disturbed areas are revegetated with a mix of site-adapted species. Scenario does not include additional measures needed in the active 

channel and floodplain. RESOURCE CONCERNS: INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE ???Habitat degradation; EXCESS WATER ??? Ponding, flooding, seasonal 

high water table, seeps, and drifted snow; WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION ??? Elevated water temperature; SOIL EROSION??? Excessive bank erosion from streams, 

shorelines, or water conveyance channels Payments for these associated practices are made separately and are covered by other typical scenarios and payment 

schedules. See relevant CPS for additional information. ---Site Preparation and Reclamation associated with project footprint: (342) Critical Area Planting, (382) Fence, 

(390) Riparian Herbaceous Cover, (391) Riparian Forest Buffer, (612) Tree/Shrub Establishment; (643) Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats. ---

Reach Planning/Habitat Enhancement: (395) Stream Habitat Improvement and Management, ---Structural Measures Associated with Scenario but outside of project 

footprint: (410) Grade Stabilization Structure, (584) Channel Bed Stabilization, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection 

Before Situation:

An instream feature spanning the active channel creates hydraulic conditions that exceed the swimming or crawling abilities of native aquatic organisms. Event-driven 

mass wasting or instream deposits of coarse sediment create channel blockages or areas of shallow, fast-moving water. An instream plug of material transported to the 

site by flood flows or delivered to the channel from a hillslope failure not only blocks passage, but may deflect the stream toward a new course than endangers adjacent 

capital infrastructure or transportation corridors. Elevated risks associated with eventual over-topping or failure of the blockage to downstream features or communities 

are imminent in the event of a blockage that forms a temporary dam. Accelerated instream or lateral channel erosion may introduce fine sediment that impairs water 

quality. 

After Situation:

The instream barrier is removed by a combination of methods and equipment and the channel and affected floodplain are restored to pre-blockage conditions to the 

fullest extent practicable. Resource Concerns are addressed within the context of the site. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of mineral sediment, fil

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,414.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Water management, Flooding & 969

dewatering

Includes equipment and power unit. Labor not included. Acre Feet $214.90 1 $214.90

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 34 $1,244.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 396 - Aquatic Organism Passage

Scenario: #2 - Nature-Like Fishway

Scenario Description:

Nature-like fishways, also known as roughened channels, rock ramps, or bypass channels, are constructed features that provide passage around an instream barrier or in 

place of a removed barrier. Fishway design is based on simulating or mimicking adjacent stream characteristics, using natural materials, and providing suitable passage 

conditions over a range of flows for a wide variety of fish species and other aquatic organisms. Nature-like fishways provide enhanced passage conditions compared to 

concrete or aluminum (Alaskan Steeppass) ladders, and are not as susceptible to debris-related operational issues. When used to bypass an instream barrier, they require 

a larger footprint than instream structures, and may also require control structures to regulate flow through the fishway or address tailwater fluctuations affecting the 

fishway entrance (downstream end). Fishway design includes an assessment of adjacent stream characteristics, including channel geometry, slope, sediment texture 

and composition, and major geomorphic units that govern channel plan, pattern and profile. In the case of a fishway that bypasses an instream barrier, the design is 

tailored to these elements, the elevation required to ascend the barrier, and the known range of flow variation or operations. For fishways constructed in the place of a 

removed barrier, the design may be a hybrid approach that meets the same criteria, although in a smaller instream footprint. Nature-like fishways are constructed with 

an assortment of equipment used for excavation, placing material, and delivering and removing material. Construction elements generally include an assortment of rock 

used to create riffles, cascades, or riffle-pool sequences with between 6 to 12 inches of water surface elevation drop between adjacent structures. Large woody material is 

used to create channel structural elements in some settings, when available and where approved by oversight agencies. Removed materials are trucked away and 

disposed or recycled off-site, unless excavated native streambed material can be used in fishway construction. Large woody material or removed trees, if present, are 

used for fishway construction trucked offsite for disposal, or trucked offsite for stockpiling for future projects. Disturbed areas are revegetated with a mix of site-adapted 

species, and access control and signage are provided. Scenario does not include additional measures needed in the active channel and floodplain or at an existing dam 

necessary to control flow associated with nature-like fishway. RESOURCE CONCERNS: INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE ???Habitat degradation; EXCESS 

WATER ??? Ponding, flooding, seasonal high water table, seeps, and drifted snow; WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION ??? Elevated water temperature; EROSION??? 

Excessive bank erosion from streams shorelines or water conveyance channels Payments for these associated practices are made separately and are covered by other 

typical scenarios and payment schedules. See relevant CPS for additional information. ---Site Preparation and Reclamation associated with project footprint: (326) 

Clearing and Snagging, (342) Critical Area Planting, (382) Fence, (390) Riparian Herbaceous Cover, (391) Riparian Forest Buffer, (612) Tree/Shrub Establishment ---Reach 

Planning/Habitat Enhancement: (395) Stream Habitat Improvement and Management, ---Structural Measures Associated with Scenario but outside of project footprint: 

(410) Grade Stabilization Structure, (582) Open Channel, (584) Channel Bed Stabilization, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection, (587) Structure for Water Control

Before Situation:

An instream barrier prevents upstream migration of native aquatic organisms and no support exists for removal. Similarly, an instream barrier is removed, and interested 

parties require maintenance of an upstream pool or pond. The subject stream contains a number of migrating aquatic organisms ranging in size from small to large with a 

range of propulsion abilities--weak to strong swimmers and animals that crawl along the bottom. In either case--barrier removal or bypassing an existing barrier--local 

sentiment to preserve existing or natural conditions and the desire to provide passage for a range of aquatic organisms indicate the use of a nature-like fishway. Adequate 

space for a bypass channel is available, and adjacent landowners approve. 

After Situation:

A nature-like fishway is constructed in place of a removed barrier or around an existing barrier. The fishway is designed to mimic the adjacent natural stream, and is 

constructed of rock and/or large woody material that provides quality passage conditions for a number of species and geomorphic stability over a range of flows. 

Resource Concerns are addressed within the context of the site. 

Feature Measure: Acres of constructed fishway (bankf

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $35,741.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $35,741.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 5000 $5,450.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 40 $5,855.20

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 40 $2,296.80

Water management, Flooding & 969

dewatering

Includes equipment and power unit. Labor not included. Acre Feet $214.90 3 $644.70

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 40 $4,227.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 45 $1,074.60
Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 124 $4,538.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 16 $1,725.44

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 50 $1,857.50

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 250 $4,520.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 396 - Aquatic Organism Passage

Scenario: #3 - CMP Culvert

Scenario Description:

A corrugated metal (galvanized steel or aluminum) pipe culvert (CMP) of any shape (round, elliptical, or squash) used at a road-stream crossing to provide aquatic 

organism passage (AOP) and promote stream ecological and geomorphic function. CMPs used for AOP are sized according to geomorphic analyses, not just an estimate of 

runoff and streamflow at the site from the contributing watershed. In addition, CMPs used for AOP are filled with a mixture of rock and gravel sized to emulate site 

stream conditions and geomorphic units in the channel. The simulated streambed material is continuous throughout the culvert barrel, and blended with the intact 

streambed at the culvert inlet and outlet. The first estimate of culvert size--diameter or span--is obtained by analyzing bankfull channel width on a reach of stream not 

affected by an existing road crossing or other conditions that alter self-formed conditions. In the case of a culvert replacement, bankfull investigations are begun at least 

10-20 estimated bankfull channel widths above the existing stream crossing. Culvert diameter or span is then increased according to channel bed composition and 

texture, bank characteristics, channel alignment at the crossing section, and other parameters that may affect channel dynamics and stability. Once the CMP diameter 

or span is determined, culvert length will be determined by roadway geometry and loading requirements, and site stream conditions. Concrete headwalls and/or 

wingwalls may be necessary in shorter installations and/or where fill/roadway cover is limited or the stream alignment is not perpendicular to the road axis. Culvert wall 

thickness and corrugations are determined by road loading requirements. Stream geomorphic characteristics, including the reach longitudinal profile, channel crosssectional shape, substrate composition and arrangement, and bank shape and composition are determined. CMPs are installed with an assortment of equipment used 

for excavation, placing material, and delivering and removing material. Construction elements generally include an assortment of rock used to create riffles, cascades, or 

riffle-pool sequences with between 6 to 12 inches of water surface elevation drop between adjacent structures. Stream dewatering and diversion around the work site is 

often required, and temporary road closure or re-routing may also be required. Channel bed material within the culvert barrel varies according to prevailing stream 

characteristics at the crossing site. The culvert is placed within the roadway on a subexcavated compacted bed, set at a slope that matches the design longitudinal profile, 

and backfilled with a bed mixture that mimics adjacent stream characteristics with special attention to channel pattern. Backfill depths are typically at least 20% of the 

culvert diameter or rise, but may deviate based on the shape of the culvert used, channel dimensions, substrate size, and the site longitudinal profile. Special equipment 

such as motorized wheelbarrows may be necessary to backfill smaller CMPs. Once the simulated streambed in the culvert barrel is complete, the roadway is replaced and 

any necessary armoring and revegetating material is placed at the culvert inlet and outlet where it intersects the road fill prism. Other actions include construction staking 

and signage, soil erosion and pollution control, removal and disposal of the old culvert, and topsoil conservation for site reclamation. Disturbed areas are revegetated 

with a mix of site-adapted species. Scenario does not include additional measures needed to address channel incision, bank stability, and other factors associated with the 

presence of the stream crossing. RESOURCE CONCERNS: INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE ???Habitat degradation; EXCESS WATER ??? Ponding, flooding, 

seasonal high water table, seeps, and drifted snow; WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION ??? Elevated water temperature; SOIL EROSION??? Excessive bank erosion from 

streams shorelines or water conveyance channels Payments for these associated practices are made separately and are covered by other typical scenarios and payment 

schedules. See relevant CPS for additional information. ---Site Preparation and Reclamation associated with project footprint: (342) Critical Area Planting, (382) Fence, 

(390) Riparian Herbaceous Cover, (391) Riparian Forest Buffer, (612) Tree/Shrub Establishment; ---Reach Planning/Habitat Enhancement: (395) Stream Habitat 

Improvement and Management, ---Structural Measures Associated with Scenario but outside of project footprint: (410) Grade Stabilization Structure, (584) Channel Bed 

Stabilization, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection 

Before Situation:

An existing undersized culvert as contributed to general bed and bank scour downstream of a road crossing, and may have contributed to the deposition of a wedge of 

sediment upstream of the road crossing. The road may be overtopped by high flows, resulting in outright failure, landowner accessibility problems, access by and to 

emergency services, and hamper post-flood recovery efforts. An upstream impoundment created by the undersized culvert has contributed to water quality problems 

including high water temperatures and the deposition and later mobilization of polluted fine sediment. Native aquatic organisms are unable to pass through the road 

crossing because the culvert outlet is perched above the downstream pool, and high velocities are not negotiable by animals that are able to leap into the culvert barrel. 

After Situation:

The undersized culvert is replaced with a CMP sized, placed, and backfilled with material determined by geomorphic analyses performed in a reference reach upstream of 

the crossing location. Geomorphic and ecological functions are preserved through the crossing site, enhancing AOP, water quality, and culvert longevity. In addition, 

because the culvert is sized to promote the transport of streamflow and the materials it carries, it requires decreased maintenance activities over time. Landowners are 

able to access their holdings across a range of flows, and are able to seek and receive emergency and post-flood recovery services. Resource Concerns are addressed 

within the context of the site. 

Feature Measure: CMP 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,648.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,648.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 8 $1,171.04

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 4 $229.68

Water management, Flooding & 969

dewatering

Includes equipment and power unit. Labor not included. Acre Feet $214.90 2 $429.80

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 4 $422.72

Labor
General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 18 $658.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 5 $185.75

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 4280 $4,108.80

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 25 $452.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 396 - Aquatic Organism Passage

Scenario: #4 - Low Water Crossing

Scenario Description:

Structure installed on low volume or on unimproved roads at watercourse crossings. Primary use is to allow livestock and equipment access to other parcels of land or 

operational units. Low-water crossings provide safe and stable stream crossings that do not negatively impact water and ecological quality while remaining stable across a 

wide range of flows. Variations exist, but a common application consists of an improved or hardened ford located above a hydraulic control (e.g., bedrock outcropping, 

riffle, or step composed of coarse substrates). Properly designed and installed low water crossings provide aquatic organism passage (AOP), promote stream ecological 

and geomorphic function, remain stable over time, and can pass sediment and woody debris. Conservation planning and interaction with the landowner is vital to 

determine if existing crossings can be consolidated into fewer, more reliable locations. Characterizing a site according to its watershed position and geomorphic function 

will aid design decisions. Optimal AOP conditions are usually realized when the backfill is composed of a mixture that mimics bed material as evaluated from a reference 

reach adjacent to the crossing???preferably at least 10-20 estimated bankfull channel widths above an existing crossing to avoid effects that alter channel geometry or 

bedform composition and spacing. Low water crossings are installed with an assortment of equipment used for excavation, placing material, and delivering and 

removing material. Low water crossings provide the best mix of function and longevity when they are designed and built to conform to existing channel geometry and 

slope, constructed to match the shape of the existing channel, and oriented to cross the stream at a 90 degree angle. Crossing width, measured along the downstream 

axis, should not exceed 2 times the bankfull width. Low water crossings are commonly constructed by over excavating the crossing section 6-12 inches below the existing 

streambed and backfilling the void with well-graded rock back to natural bed elevation. Geotextile lining may be required in some settings. Rock size and gradation is the 

smallest mix needed to remain stable under prevailing flow conditions???larger rock can endanger livestock and turbulence impairs passage. Sand or soil may be added 

into the mix to seal the section to ensure that the stream doesn???t percolate into the crossing substrate. Smaller material increases bed diversity, chokes voids between 

bigger stones, and helps preserve passage quality. Rocks smaller than 2 inches at the finished surface may become lodged in livestock hooves. The road/trail surface of 

the crossing should be extended to an elevation that exceeds the known high water level on each side of the crossing. The downstream edge of the crossing should not 

produce a sharp drop in water surface to preserve AOP quality and discourage sediment deposition and debris accumulation. Other actions include construction staking 

and signage, soil erosion and pollution control, removal and disposal of the old culvert, and topsoil conservation for site reclamation. Disturbed areas are revegetated 

with a mix of site-adapted species. Scenario does not include additional measures needed to address channel incision, bank stability, and other factors associated with the 

presence of the stream crossing. Stream corridor fencing should be considered to control livestock access and preserve water and riparian quality. RESOURCE 

CONCERNS: INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE ???Habitat degradation Payments for these associated practices are made separately and are covered by 

other typical scenarios and payment schedules. See relevant CPS for additional information. ---Site Preparation and Reclamation associated with project footprint: 

(326) Clearing and Snagging, (342) Critical Area Planting, (382) Fence, (390) Riparian Herbaceous Cover, (391) Riparian Forest Buffer, (612) Tree/Shrub Establishment ---

Reach Planning/Habitat Enhancement: (395) Stream Habitat Improvement and Management, ---Structural Measures Associated with Scenario but outside of project 

footprint: (410) Grade Stabilization Structure, (582) Open Channel, (584) Channel Bed Stabilization, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection, (587) Structure for Water 

Control 

Before Situation:

Small farming operations havepastures and hay meadows where seasonal movement of equipment and livestock between parcels is required. Farm equipment has gotten 

stuck in the past, and uncontrolled livestock access and frequent crossing or loafing in the stream contributes to chronic water quality problems associated with elevated 

fine sediment, high water temperatures, invasive aquatic vegetation, and fecal coliform bacteria. At times, headcuts develop that impede movement of aquatic species 

within the stream.

After Situation:

An improved ford is constructed by excavating the channel just upstream of the boulder/cobble hydraulic control. The cut is lined with geotextile to control seepage and 

subsurface flow, and backfilled up to the existing bed elevation with a well-graded mix of rock sized to mimic the material in the channel upstream of the crossing. The 

finished crossing surface is at grade with the up and downstream channel elevation, and no drop exists along the downstream edge. Approaches on either side of the 

crossing are extended up to the adjacent floodplain surface, and the finished instream portion of the ford matches the existing channel cross section. Approach slopes are 

shallow enough for expected equipment traffic, including towed combinations, and armored as needed with larger rock to protect against erosion that may occur when 

the floodplain is inundated. Resource Concerns are addressed within the context of the site.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yard

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,821.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $197.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 1000 $1,090.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 50 $301.50

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 12 $689.04

Water management, Flooding & 969

dewatering

Includes equipment and power unit. Labor not included. Acre Feet $214.90 1 $214.90

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Labor
Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 40 $1,464.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 25 $928.75

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 50 $904.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 396 - Aquatic Organism Passage

Scenario: #61 - Stationary Screen

Scenario Description:

The need exists to filter out unwanted debris to prevent plugging the pipeline, or possible structural damage to a pump or structural damage that would disrupt service of 

an irrigation pipeline or preventing juvenile or small-bodied adult fish from entering ditches, canals, laterals, pumps, or other pathways that lead to migration dead-ends 

or sources of mortality. Several types of screens are available for use at surface diversions or pump stations. One such screen is a stationary type of screen, meaning that 

they are not active by design and do not include mechanisms that automatically cycle to keep the screen free of debris. Even though they are often described as 'self 

cleaning', manual cleaning is typically required. One type of stationary screen that is commonly used for this purpose is a Coanda, wedgewire screen, however expanded 

metal or punch plate type screens have been used. Stationary screens can be installed in the active channel along a streambank, but are most commonly built directly in 

the channel and attached to a box type of structure with a head gate to control water into an irrigation pipeline, ditch or canal, or into a bypass pipe back to the main 

stream. Installation includes the screen and supporting mechanism, the reinforced concrete, metal, or wood box with a control head gate and, if needed, some rock riprap 

often required in this installation.

Before Situation:

An unscreened gravity diversion removes debris, water, and fish from a medium-sized stream. The ditch serves a pump or turnouts used to irrigate. Unwanted debris 

often gets into the pumps and causes damage to the bearings. The diversion is run from early summer into fall, In some cases the diversion is owned by an nth-generation 

landowner with proven, long-standing rights to the diverted water, recent fish listings under the Endangered Species Act present liability risks in the face of a third party 

lawsuit. Diverted fish and sometimes listed fish are killed in the ditch or residual depressions in the irrigated meadow, and often become en-trained and killed in pumps 

used to drive wheel lines used to irrigate.

After Situation:

A typical scenario consists of a stationary screen consisting of a wedgewire style screen 4 feet wide and 1.5 feet in length. The design screen inflow is 2.5 cfs. The screen is 

placed in the ditch in a concrete structure at an angle and water is 'sliced' as it flows over the screen. Ditch water flows over and through the screen and continues on 

down the ditch. A bypass pipe is installed that conveys water and fish back to the stream. Often a head gate located upstream of the fish screen is needed to control 

water into the ditch. Inspection during the first operational season following construction confirms that the screen is within hydraulic criteria and providing adequate 

protection to listed fish. The screen structure is fenced from livestock, and inspected and maintained according to contractual agreements. Water that is free of debris is 

diverted into the ditch and fish are allowed to return back to the main channel. Resource Concerns are addressed within the context of the site.

Feature Measure: Design screen inflow rate

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet per Second

Scenario Typical Size: 2.50

Scenario Total Cost: $10,460.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,184.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 8 $446.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Materials

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1229

1/16 in

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1/16 inch grid spacing. Materials only. Square Feet $4.09 144 $588.96

Steel, structural steel members 1779 Structural steel, includes materials and fabrication. Pound $1.78 1072 $1,908.16

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 2131

material only

Graded Rock Riprap for 12' to 24' size ranges. Includes material costs 

only. Delivery or placement not included.

Ton $22.42 22 $493.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 800 $800.00

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Practice: 397 - Aquaculture Pond

Scenario: #14 - Aquaculture Pond

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1 acre pond surface area, 3:1 side slopes, average 5' depth. The construction of an aquaculture pond to facilitate the efficient collection and transfer of 

waste, the containment of cultured fish, efficient use of water and the maintenance of water quality. The resource concerns addressed include excess nutrients in surface 

and ground waters, inefficient water use, and habitat degradation. Typical pond outlet is a Structure for Water Control (587). Costs include all equipment necessary to 

excavate, grade and shape an aquaculture pond. Water Control Structure and Seeding not included.

Before Situation:

In the before situation, an aquaculture producer has an aquaculture pond system that has one or more of the following concerns: excessive seepage or frequent release of 

nutrient laden aquaculture water, potential of loss of non-native aquaculture production fish species to the native environment, and/or poor growing conditions for the 

current aquaculture species.

After Situation:

Aquaculture pond is typically 1 acre in surface area, 5 feet deep with 3:1 side slopes. The practice is installed using a dozer. Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed 

accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using Structure for Water Control (587). A liner, if needed, will be installed using Pond Sealing or 

Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment 520, or Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner. Water Well, Pumps, and Access Roads may also be needed and 

will be installed using those standards as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Acre of Aquaculture Pond

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,777.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $25,777.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 6990 $24,744.60

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 397 - Aquaculture Pond

Scenario: #15 - Pond with Harvest Kettle

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1 acre pond surface area, 3:1 side slopes, average 5' depth with a harvest kettle constructed with 10 CY of reinforced concrete. The construction of an 

aquaculture pond to facilitate the efficient collection and transfer of waste, the containment of cultured fish, efficient use of water and the maintenance of water quality. 

The resource concerns addressed include excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, inefficient water use, and habitat degradation. Typical pond outlet is a Structure 

for Water Control (587). Costs include all equipment necessary to excavate, grade and shape an aquaculture pond, and reinforce concrete ???kettle???. Water Control 

Structure and Seeding not included.

Before Situation:

In the before situation, an aquaculture producer has an aquaculture pond system that has one or more of the following concerns: excessive seepage or frequent release of 

nutrient laden aquaculture water, potential of loss of non-native aquaculture production fish species to the native environment, and/or poor growing conditions for the 

current aquaculture species.

After Situation:

Aquaculture pond is typically 1 acre in surface area, 5 feet deep with 3:1 side slopes with a reinforced concrete harvest kettle. The practice is installed using a dozer. 

Reinforce concrete harvest kettle is installed with laborers. Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed 

using Structure for Water Control (587). A liner, if needed, will be installed using Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment 520, or Pond Sealing or Lining, 

Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner 521. Water Well, Pumps, and Access Roads may also be needed and will be installed using those standards as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Acre of Aquaculture Pond

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $32,849.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32,849.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 10 $5,967.10

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 6990 $24,744.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 100 $176.00

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1229

1/16 in

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1/16 inch grid spacing. Materials only. Square Feet $4.09 140 $572.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 397 - Aquaculture Pond

Scenario: #16 - With Rock Bottom

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1 acre pond surface area, 3:1 side slopes, average 5' depth with a 6' gravel placed in pond bottom as required for certain species of fish. The construction 

of an aquaculture pond to facilitate the efficient collection and transfer of waste, the containment of cultured fish, efficient use of water and the maintenance of water 

quality. The resource concerns addressed include excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, inefficient water use, and habitat degradation. Typical pond outlet is a 

Structure for Water Control (587). Costs include all equipment necessary to excavate, grade and shape an aquaculture pond and furnishing and placing gravel. Water 

Control Structure and Seeding not included.

Before Situation:

In the before situation, an aquaculture producer has an aquaculture pond system that has one or more of the following concerns: excessive seepage or frequent release of 

nutrient laden aquaculture water, potential of loss of non-native aquaculture production fish species to the native environment, and/or poor growing conditions for the 

current aquaculture species.

After Situation:

Aquaculture pond is typically 1 acre in surface area, 5 feet deep with 3:1 side slopes with 6??? of gravel on the bottom. The practice is installed using a dozer. Drainage 

tile, if needed, will be installed according to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using Structure for Water Control (587). A liner, if needed, will be 

installed using Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment 520, or Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner 521. Water Well, Pumps, and 

Access Roads may also be needed and will be installed using those standards as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Acre of Aquaculture Pond

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $43,018.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $43,018.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 7581 $26,836.74

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 690 $14,841.90

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 399 - Fishpond Management

Scenario: #2 - Habitat Structures

Scenario Description:

Fishpond lacks the diversity of habitat to provide adequate habitat for desired fish species. Creation of habitat structures as recommended by a conservation planner or 

other individual with appropriate credentials including a qualified biologist. Suggested improvements will determine type of structure needed, number of structures, 

density and location of structures. Habitat structures are typically submerged or emergent. Structures may include log cribs, rock piles, log and rock cribs, pipe and limber 

cribs, conifer cribs, PVC-tree structures, gravel spawning beds, catfish cages, concrete blocks stacked and filled with sticks or cuttings or plastic barrels filled with sand and 

sticks. Resource Concerns addressed include: Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - Habitat degradation. Practice installation may also address: Water Quality 

Degradation - Elevated water temperatures. 

Before Situation:

Existing fish pond lacks sufficent habitat diversity to provide optimum conditions for desired fish species.

After Situation:

Habitat structures within fishpond are appropriate for desired fish species. Typical installation in 1 ac pond: 6 structures of 25 concrete blocks stacked and wired together, 

with sticks placed within blocks. Other structures can be created including brush piles or pallet cribs wired together and weighted with concrete. Resource concern of 

habitat degratdation has been addressed by providing artificial habitat features. Participant will follow Operation and Maintenance guidance to ensure created habitat is 

maintained and continues to provide the benefits to the resources.

Feature Measure: Acre of pond managed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,147.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,147.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Materials

Block, concrete 253 Concrete block, hollow, normal weight, 3500 psi. Includes both full and 

partial sizes. Material only

Each $3.25 150 $487.50
Practice: 399 - Fishpond Management

Scenario: #3 - Planting Native Vegetation

Scenario Description:

Native, aquatic vegetation will be established by plugs, tubers, sod mats, soil inoculation, local ecotype seeding or similar methods. Both emergent and submerged 

vegetation will be established using hand tools or other small equipment as needed. Vegetation will be established to ensure approprite cover for desired fish species. 

Plants will be established at a rate, location and density as prescribed by the conservation planner or other natural resource professional. A typical setting will plant 

between 2-5 aquatic plants per 10 SF. This scenario may include the replacement of non desired plants with appropriate native plants. Resource Concerns addressed 

include: Degraded Plant Condition - Excessive plant pest pressure; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - Habitat degradation. Practice installation may also address: 

Water Quality Degradation - Elevated water temperatures. 

Before Situation:

Established fish pond which has had insufficient vegetation for desired fish species. Vegetation consists either primarily of non-desired plants or is not of a density to 

provide adequate cover for fish species. Fishpond is typically 1 acre in size, 1/4 acre of fishpond will receive native vegetation restoration.

After Situation:

Vegetation in fishpond is of a density and composition that is suitable for desired fish species. Vegetation is native plants. Resource concern of habitat degradation has 

been addressed by adding desired vegetation. Participant will follow Operation and Maintenance guidelines to ensure established plants will thrive. If plant die-off occurs 

prior to lifespan of practice, participant is required to re-establish vegetation according to NRCS Standards and Specifications.

Feature Measure: Acre of vegetation planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,068.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,068.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Native Aquatic Plants, Emergent 2336

or Submerged

Native aquatic emergent or submerged. All required materials for 

establishing vegetation. Includes material and shipping.

Each $1.22 500 $610.00
Practice: 399 - Fishpond Management

Scenario: #4 - Depth Management

Scenario Description:

Management of existing fishpond by excavation or placement of material to create deep open water or littoral shelves. Fishpond currently does not provide optimum 

habitat for desired species. Excavated material will either be relocated within fish pond (i.e. island, jetty, shallow bench, etc.) or sited appropriately so as to not cause any 

negative environmental effects in adjacent uplands. Changes to depth will be based upon recommendations by a conservation planner or other indidvidual with 

appropriate credentials, including a qualified biologist. Resource Concerns addressed include: Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife - Habitat degradation. Practice 

installation may also address: Water Quality Degradation - Elevated water temperatures. Associated Practice (if required): Critical Area Planting - 342

Before Situation:

Existing fish pond lacks sufficent depth, diversity of depth, or desired bottom structure to provide optimum habitat for desired fish species.

After Situation:

Depth and bottom structure of fishpond are appropriate for desired fish species. Resource concern of habitat degradation has been addressed by adding additional depth 

to the fishpond. Participant will follow Operation and Maintenance guidance to ensure created habitat is maintained and continues to provide the benefits to the 

resources.

Feature Measure: Acre of pond managed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,997.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,997.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 16 $2,108.00

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 600 $2,124.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 28 $1,024.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 402 - Dam

Scenario: #3 - pipe principal spillway

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction of an earthen embankment to impound water. A corrugated metal pipe (CMP) principal spillway will be constructed. A metal trash guard 

protects the spillway inlet. A circular CMP riser connects to a CMP barrel that runs through the dam to outlet safely downstream. A sand diaphram is installed in the 

embankment. This scenario assists in addressing the resource concerns: excessive runoff, flooding or ponding, inefficient water use on irrigated land, reduced capacity of 

conveyances by sediment deposition.

Before Situation:

Area exists where water could naturally pool or run off to create a pond for livestock, wildlife, fire control, flood control, or irrigation. The site meets satisfactory 

conditions according to the standard.

After Situation:

The typical dam is constructed by excavation and compaction to create an embankment. The principal spillway is completed by using a CMP riser with a metal trash gaurd 

and a CMP barrel. A sand diaphragm is installed. Vegetation will be completed under Critical Area Planting (342) standard. . Other associated practices such as; Fence 

(382), Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), Structure For Water Control (587), and Aquatic Organism Passage (396) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Embankment Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 25,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $170,864.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 1 $596.71

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 25000 $60,750.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 25000 $96,750.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 90 $542.70

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 130 $179.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 21 $670.32

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 52 $1,062.88

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 2790 $5,775.30

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 62.1 $147.18

Trash Guard, metal 1608 Trash Guard, fabricated-steel, includes materials, equipment, and labor 

to transport and place Conical shaped trash guard for drop inlet 

spillway. Typically fabricated of CMP and steel. Includes materials, 

equipment, and labor to fabricate and transport.

Pound $2.81 60 $168.60

Mobilization
Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #1 - Embankment, No PS

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam without a principal spillway pipe. A low flow tube of 6 inches or less to reduce saturation of the auxiliary spillway is installed, anti-seep 

collars or sand diaphragms are not required. To stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, 

and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize 

the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 2,000 cubic yards, and 80 feet of pipe 6' PVC pipe. Disturbed 

areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,149.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2000 $7,740.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 5 $658.75

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 260 $218.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 5 $159.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 262.4 $621.89

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #2 - Embankment, Pipe <24 inch

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principle spillway pipe less than 24 inches, anti-seep collars or sand diaphragm, and excavated plunge pool basin. Installed to 

stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce 

pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. 

Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 4000 cubic yards, 90 feet of 18' PVC, pipe with a canopy inlet, and 3 cubic yard sand diaphragm. A non-lined 

plunge pool protects the outlet channel. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated 

flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $27,296.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 4000 $15,480.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 29 $174.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 18 $574.56

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 22 $2,971.54

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 1778.4 $4,428.22

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #3 - Embankment, Pipe >=24 inch

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principle spillway pipe equal to or greater than 24 inches. Installed to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial 

channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration 

and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 

10,000 cubic yards,corrugated metal drop inlet principle spillway with a 11 ft riser and 100 ft barrel, and 82 Square feet of anti-seep collars. A rock lined plunge pool 

protects the outlet channel. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion 

and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 10,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $56,345.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 10000 $38,700.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 129 $777.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 13 $1,712.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 36 $1,149.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 46 $6,213.22

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 3792 $3,640.32

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.882 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #4 - Pipe Drop, Plastic - NP Reg 1

Scenario Description:

A pipe drop (ie: riser and barrel) grade stabilization structure designed and constructed using plastic pipe without anti-seep collars. This is typically an earthen dry dam 

structure with no permanent storage (water or sediment), however some structures may have some permanent pool / storage but do not have 35 years of sediment life. 

Payment rate is based upon the riser weir length (Diameter x 3.14) in feet times the length of the pipe barrel in (feet). Installed to stabilized the grade and control erosion 

in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas 

where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a 2000 CY 

structure with a 6 ft high 24' (2') PVC riser with a 40 ft long barrel (2' x 3.14 x 40' = 251 SF). Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses 

resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

and Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Riser Weir Length x Barrel Length

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 251.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,875.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $71.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 1 $596.71

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2000 $7,740.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 20 $120.60

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 2 $263.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 7 $143.08

Coupling, PVC, Tee, 24x18, SCH 40 1374 Materials: - Tee, 24 x 18 inch - PVC - SCH 40 - ASTM D1785 Each $4,729.09 1 $4,729.09

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 984.2 $2,450.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #5 - Pipe Drop, CMP

Scenario Description:

A pipe drop (ie: riser and barrel) grade stabilization structure designed and constructed with a metal anti-seep collar. This is typically a earthen dry dam structure with no 

permanent storage (water or sediment), however some structures may have some permanent pool / storage but do not have 35 years of sediment life. Payment rate is 

based upon the riser weir length (Diameter x 3.14) in feet times the length of the pipe barrel in (feet). Installed to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or 

artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the 

concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a corrugated metal 

pipe drop structure with a 30', 12' tall riser and a 100' long 24' barrel (Riser Weir length x Barrel Length = 2.5ft x 3.14 x 100ft = 785). Disturbed areas are protected with 

permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

and Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Riser Weir Length x Barrel Length

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 785.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,480.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1500 $5,805.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 129 $777.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 13 $1,712.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 42 $1,340.64

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 59 $1,408.92

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 1 $21.51

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 3792 $3,640.32

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 30 $104.10

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.882 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #6 - Concrete Box Drop 

Scenario Description:

A Straight, semicircular, or Box Drop structure composed of reinforced concrete used to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent 

the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of 

water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a wall structure with a drop of 4 ft and weir length of 6 ft 

wide and is 6 ft deep with 3 ft above the crest. The unit of payment measurement is defined as cubic yards of concrete. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent 

vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Concrete

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 11.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,295.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,208.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 11 $6,563.81

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 46 $50.14

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 800 $3,096.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 5 $658.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 7.5 $153.30

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 14 $520.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #7 - Sheet Pile Weir Drop 

Scenario Description:

A Straight structure composed of sheet pile metal used to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of 

gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to 

stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a structure with a crest of 30 ft. The unit of payment measurement is defined as the 

area of sheet piling in square feet. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow 

erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Area of Sheet piling

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 350.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,973.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $74.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 500 $1,215.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1500 $5,805.00

Sheet piling, steel, 15 ft. 1337 Steel sheet pile, panels or barrier driven up to 15 feet and left in place. 

Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Square Feet $37.25 350 $13,037.50

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 30 $4,052.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #8 - Gabion Rock Drop Structures

Scenario Description:

A Straight Drop structure constructed of rock riprap held in place by galvanized wire, such as, gabion baskets, fence panels, or 'sausage' baskets. These structures are used 

to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and 

reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully 

erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a gabion wall structure with a drop of 3ft and weir length of 18ft (54 square feet). The unit of payment measurement is defined as 

volume of rock used in the gabion basket or mat. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosionconcentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Volume of Gabion Rock

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 72.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,391.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $241.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 60 $65.40

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 100 $243.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 250 $967.50

Materials

Gabion basket or mat 1378 Gabion baskets or mats installed and filled on grade, includes materials, 

transport, equipment, and labor, does not include geotextile fabric.

Cubic Yards $202.38 72 $14,571.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #9 - Concrete Block Chute

Scenario Description:

A trapezoidal structure constructed of concrete masonary blocks. These structures are used to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to 

prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow 

velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a concrete block structure with a drop of 5 

feet and a width of 20 feet on a 10% slope. The unit of payment measurement is defined as the area covered by the concrete blocks in square feet. Disturbed areas are 

protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Area of Blocks

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,260.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,810.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 180 $437.40

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 400 $1,548.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 35 $835.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 18 $907.20

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 35 $715.40

Block, concrete 253 Concrete block, hollow, normal weight, 3500 psi. Includes both full and 

partial sizes. Material only

Each $3.25 1400 $4,550.00

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 140 $273.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #10 - Modular Concrete Block Drop

Scenario Description:

A drop structure constructed of precast modular blocks, typically 2'x2'x4, 2.5'x2.5'x5', or 2'x2'x6'. These structures are used to stabilize the grade and control erosion in 

natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where 

the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a concrete block 

structure with a drop of 5 feet and a weir width of 12 feet with a stepped slope of 2:1 (H:V), for a total of 67 modular blocks. The unit of payment measurement is defined 

as the volume of concrete blocks in cubic yards. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosionconcentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Volume of Blocks

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,927.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $248.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 210 $510.30

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 430 $1,664.10

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 12 $1,581.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 28 $668.64

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 4 $81.76

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 40 $78.00

Block, pre-cast concrete, modular 1496 Pre-cast concrete blocks, typically 2ft x 2ft x 6ft , includes installation 

and delivery.

Cubic Yards $146.67 60 $8,800.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #11 - Rock Chute

Scenario Description:

A trapezoidal structure constructed of rock riprap with a geotextile base. These structures are used to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial 

channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration 

and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a rock chute with a vertical drop of 

6.5 feet and a width of 12'. The unit of payment measurement is defined as the volume of rock used in the chute in cubic yards. Disturbed areas are protected with 

permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Volume of Rock 

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 144.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,391.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $141.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 50 $121.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 144 $19,450.08

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #12 - Tied Concrete Block Mat

Scenario Description:

A drop structure placed in a water course constructed of concrete blocks joined by cable or other means to form a flexible mat. These structures are used to stabilize the 

grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, prevent the formation/advancement of gullies, and enhance water quality and reduce pollution hazards. These 

are generally applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade, and vegetation alone will not protect the 

structure from erosion. The typical structure is 16' wide and removes 5' of grade in the channel with a 4:1 outlet slope. The unit of payment is the area of matting 

installed and includes inlet and outlet transition areas and side slopes. All associated earthwork and materials are included in the cost. Required re-vegetation of 

disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342) or other appropriate seeding practices. Resource concerns addressed: gully erosion, concentrated flow erosion, 

degraded water quality due to suspended solids.

Before Situation:

The operator currently has gullies forming and/or advancing into crop or pasture land which negatively impacts the land use and downstream water quality. Erosion from 

the gullies results in soil loss and allows soil and nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters, degrading water quality.

After Situation:

The advancement of and/or formation of gullies is stopped, and soil from gullies no longer leaves the field. Land use is restored or maintained and sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and downstream water quality is protected. Other associated practices include: Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed 

Stabilization (584), Dike (366), Grassed waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Square Feet of Mat.

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,350.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,003.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 4 $527.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 76 $164.16

Articulated precast concrete block 1906 Articulated precast concrete blocks with a typical thickness of 4.5 to 6 

inches. Includes materials and shipping.

Square Feet $10.26 1350 $13,851.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 0.25 $192.97
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #29 - Rehab Embankment Pond, With Principal Spillway

Scenario Description:

A previously built earthen embankment dam witha principal spillway pipe that is greater than 24' in diameter. Previously installed structure had embankment and pipe 

failure, and is in need of new pipe installation and embankment repair. Cost estimate is based upon shaping side slopes, replacing pipe and riser, and replacing with a 

typical amount of earthfill of 4250 cubic yards. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosionconcentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the structure and impacting the downstream water quality. Also presents a safety hazard of potential dam 

failure. Erosion from the gullies is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Diameter Inch Foot of Barrel

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 2,400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $34,039.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 4250 $16,447.50

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 129 $777.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 13 $1,712.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 36 $1,149.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 46 $6,213.22

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 3792 $3,640.32

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #32 - Drop Structure, Metal

Scenario Description:

A Straight, semicircular, or Box Drop structure composed of metal and used to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the 

formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of 

water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a semicircular steel toe wall structure with a drop of 3ft 

and total weir length of 30 ft (13.4 feet in diameter with 4.5 foot sidewall extensions) and 11.3 foot long by 5.4 foot high headwalls. The unit of payment measurement is 

defined as the area of metal used to construct the headwalls and semicircular weir. Example: 30*3 (weir length * drop) + 2*(11.3*5.4) (two headwalls) = 212.04 (round to 

nearest foot). Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water 

quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Total Area of Metal Walls and Weir

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 212.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,127.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $66.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 9 $5,370.39

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 75 $290.25

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 8 $1,054.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 3 $64.53

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 11 $408.65

Corrugated Steel, 12 Gauge, 1376

galvanized

Corrugated Steel, 12 gauge, 3 inch by 1 inch corrugations, galvanized, 

meets ASTM A 929. Materials only.

Square Feet $19.08 212 $4,044.96

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 24 $23.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #111 - Embankment, Soil Treatment

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principal spillway pipe where on site soils are not acceptable and require extra processing or hauling from off farm, distances greater 

than one mile. Installed to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance 

environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in 

channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 2,500 cubic yards, 90 feet of 10' pace, pipe with a canopy inlet, and 3 cubic 

yard sand diaphragm. A non-lined plunge pool protects the outlet channel. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns 

such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,431.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2500 $9,675.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 29 $174.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Hauling, bulk, highway truck 1615 Hauling of bulk earthfill, rockfill, waste or debris. One-way travel 

distance using fully loaded highway dump trucks (typically 16 CY or 20 

TN capacity). Includes equipment and labor for truck only. Does not 

include cost for loading truck.

Cubic Yard $0.35 25000 $8,750.00

Mile

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 30 $957.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 3 $61.32

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1133 $2,685.21

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #112 - Embankment, Pipe <= 6 inch

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principal spillway pipe of 6 inches or less. Assessment shows anti-seep collars or sand diaphragms are not required. To stabilized the 

grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution 

hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate 

is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 2,000 cubic yards, and 80 feet of pipe 6' PVC pipe with a canopy inlet. A small, non-lined plunge pool protects the outlet 

channel. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality 

degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,802.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2000 $7,740.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 20 $120.60

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 5 $658.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 286.4 $678.77

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #113 - Embankment, Pipe 8-12 inch

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principle spillway pipe between 8 and 12 inches, anti-seep collars or sand diaphragm, and excavated plunge pool basin. Installed to 

stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce 

pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. 

Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 2,500 cubic yards, 90 feet of 10' pace, pipe with a canopy inlet, and 3 cubic yard sand diaphragm. A non-lined 

plunge pool protects the outlet channel. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated 

flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,681.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2500 $9,675.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 29 $174.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 30 $957.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 3 $61.32

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1133 $2,685.21

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #114 - Embankment, Pipe >12 inch

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment dam with a principle spillway pipe greater than 12 inches. Installed to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to 

prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow 

velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a typical amount of earthfill of 2,500 cubic 

yards, smooth steel drop inlet principle spillway with a 7 ft riser and 90 ft barrel, and 82 Square feet of anti-seep collars. A rock lined plunge pool protects the outlet 

channel. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality 

degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Livestock Pipeline (516) will use the corresponding 

Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,438.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2500 $9,675.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 129 $777.87

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 13 $1,712.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 38 $1,212.96

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 42 $1,002.96

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 14 $1,890.98

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Steel, Plate, 1/8 in. 1047 Flat Steel Plate, 1/8 inch thick, materials only. Square Feet $7.75 82 $635.50

Pipe, Steel, Std Wt., Used, weight 2870

priced

Schedule 40 steel pipe, used. Materials only. Pound $0.99 4898.5 $4,849.52

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.882 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #115 - Pipe Drop, Steel

Scenario Description:

A full flow pipe drop (ie: riser and barrel) grade stabilization structure designed and constructed with a metal anti-seep collar. This is typically a earthen dry dam structure 

with no permanent storage (water or sediment), however some structures may have some permanent pool / storage but do not have 35 years of sediment life. Payment 

rate is based upon the riser weir length (Diameter x 3.14) in feet times the length of the pipe barrel in (feet). Installed to stabilized the grade and control erosion in 

natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where 

the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a smooth steel 

pipe drop structure with a 36', 12' tall riser and a 100' long 30' barrel (Riser Weir length x Barrel Length = 3ft x 3.14 x 30ft = 940). Disturbed areas are protected with 

permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

and Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Riser Weir Length x Barrel Length

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 940.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,798.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $21.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 600 $2,322.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 100 $603.00

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 4 $527.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Steel, Plate, 1/8 in. 1047 Flat Steel Plate, 1/8 inch thick, materials only. Square Feet $7.75 30 $232.50

Steel, Plate, 3/8 in. 1375 Flat steel plate, 3/8 inch thickness. Materials only. Square Feet $23.23 9 $209.07

Pipe, Steel, Std Wt., Used, weight 2870

priced

Schedule 40 steel pipe, used. Materials only. Pound $0.99 13577.2 $13,441.43

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #116 - Pipe Drop, Plastic

Scenario Description:

A full flow pipe drop (ie: riser and barrel) grade stabilization structure designed and constructed using plastic pipe without anti-seep collars. This is typically a earthen dry 

dam structure with no permanent storage (water or sediment), however some structures may have some permanent pool / storage but do not have 35 years of sediment 

life. Payment rate is based upon the riser weir length (Diameter x 3.14) in feet times the length of the pipe barrel in (feet). Installed to stabilized the grade and control 

erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in 

areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon 6 ft 

high 18' (1.5') PVC riser with a 40 ft long barrel (1.5' x 3.14 x 40' = 188 SF). Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns 

such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

and Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Riser Weir Length x Barrel Length

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 188.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,926.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $52.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 1 $596.71

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 100 $387.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 20 $120.60

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 2 $263.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Coupling, PVC, Tee, 24x18, SCH 40 1374 Materials: - Tee, 24 x 18 inch - PVC - SCH 40 - ASTM D1785 Each $4,729.09 1 $4,729.09

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 1048.1 $2,609.77

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #117 - Weir Drop Structures

Scenario Description:

A Straight, semicircular, or Box Drop structure composed of metal or reinforced concrete used to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, 

to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow 

velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a semicircular steel toe wall structure with a 

drop of 3ft and weir length of 30ft (90 square feet). The unit of payment measurement is defined as weir length times drop in 'feet'. The drop (feet) is defined as the 

structure inlet crest elevation minus the control outlet elevation (ie: outlet apron elevation).Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses 

resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Feet of Weir length times Drop Hei

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 90.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,729.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $152.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 9 $5,370.39

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 9 $9.81

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 40 $97.20

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 75 $290.25

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 5 $658.75

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 3 $64.53

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 11 $408.65

Corrugated Steel, 12 Gauge, 1376

galvanized

Corrugated Steel, 12 gauge, 3 inch by 1 inch corrugations, galvanized, 

meets ASTM A 929. Materials only.

Square Feet $19.08 212 $4,044.96

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 24 $23.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 410 - Grade Stabilization Structure

Scenario: #118 - Rock Drop Structures

Scenario Description:

A Straight Drop structure constructed of rock riprap held in place by galvanized wire, such as, gabion baskets, fence panels, or 'sausage' baskets. These structures are used 

to stabilized the grade and control erosion in natural or artificial channels, to prevent the formation or advancing of gullies, and to enhance environmental quality and 

reduce pollution hazards. Applied in areas where the concentration and flow velocity of water require structures to stabilize the grade in channels or to control gully 

erosion. Cost estimate is based upon a gabion wall structure with a drop of 3ft and weir length of 8ft (48 square feet). The unit of payment measurement is defined as weir 

length times drop in 'feet'. The drop (feet) is defined as the structure inlet crest elevation minus the control outlet elevation (ie: outlet apron elevation).Disturbed areas 

are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

The operator presently has gullies forming and/or worsening on the farmland and impacting the useable area and the downstream water quality. Erosion from the gullies 

is allowing soil and possibly nutrients to be transported to downstream receiving waters degrading water quality and causing soil loss.

After Situation:

Area is stabilized. The advancement and/or formation of gullies is stopped, soil from gullies no longer leaves the farm, useable farm area is increased, sedimentation and 

other pollution hazards are decreased, and water quality downstream is protected. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other 

associated practices such as; Pond (378), Dam (402), Fence (382), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Dike (356), Grassed Waterway (412), Structure for Water Control (587), 

Subsurface Drain (606), and Underground Outlet (620) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Feet of Weir length times Drop Hei

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 48.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,145.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $107.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 23 $25.07

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 7 $17.01

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 40 $154.80

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 5 $658.75

Tractor, agricultural, 210 HP 1201 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 190 to 240. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $134.57 3 $403.71

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 5 $183.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Gabion basket or mat 1378 Gabion baskets or mats installed and filled on grade, includes materials, 

transport, equipment, and labor, does not include geotextile fabric.

Cubic Yards $202.38 7 $1,416.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #1 - Waterway, less than 25 ft2

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.1' depth. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Practice Standard 

with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the 

overall shape and grade of the waterway. This scenario would apply to Grassed Waterways with a design cross sectional area less than 25 square feet per lineal foot of 

waterway.

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and/or poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also 

commonly installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.1' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, with final grading with motor 

grader. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are 

needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using 

Structure for Water Control (587). If inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.02

Scenario Total Cost: $4,640.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,549.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 411 $345.24

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 954 $3,377.16

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #2 - Waterway, 25 to 50 ft2

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Practice Standard 

with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the 

overall shape and grade of the waterway. This scenario would apply to Grassed Waterways with a design cross sectional area greater than 25 square feet up to 50 square 

feet per lineal foot of waterway.

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and/or poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also 

commonly installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, with final grading with motor 

grader. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are 

needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using 

Structure for Water Control (587). If inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.24

Scenario Total Cost: $6,793.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,478.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 500 $420.00

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 1500 $5,310.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #3 - Waterway, 50 to 100 ft2

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 2000 ' long, 40' bottom, 6:1 side slopes, 1.6' depth. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Practice Standard 

with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the 

overall shape and grade of the waterway. This scenario would apply to Grassed Waterways with a design cross sectional area from 51 square feet up to 100 square feet 

per lineal foot of waterway.

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and/or poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also 

commonly installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 2000 ' long, 40' bottom, 6:1 side slopes, 1.8' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, with final grading with motor 

grader. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are 

needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using 

Structure for Water Control (587). If inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.72

Scenario Total Cost: $18,151.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,673.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1096 $920.64

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 4411 $15,614.94

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #5 - Waterway with Side Dikes or Checks

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 2000 ' long, 40' bottom, 6:1 side slopes, 1.6' depth. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. Fabric or stone checks are installed every 100 feet along the length of the waterway perpendicular to 

waterflow and are 2/3 the waterway top width to reduce maintenance and provide temporary protection until vegetation is established. Fabric Checks are installed 18' 

deep with 12' laid over on the surface. (Alternatively, rock checks or side dikes could be installed). This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & 

Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding will be completed under the Critical 

Area Planting (342) Practice Standard with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation 

and associated work to construct the overall shape and grade of the waterway. 

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also commonly 

installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 2000 ' long, 40' bottom, 6:1 side slopes, 1.8' depth. Fabric checks are installed every 100 feet along the length of the waterway. The practice 

is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, with final grading with motor grader. Fabric or stone checks are installed with small backhoe and labor. Use Critical Area Planting 

(342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are needed, use conservation practice 

Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using Structure for Water Control (587). If 

inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.72

Scenario Total Cost: $19,142.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,037.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 32 $77.76

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 27 $162.81

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1096 $920.64

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 4411 $15,614.94

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 125 $260.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #13 - Waterway, high excavation volume per acre

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 2600' long, 80' bottom, 6:1 side slopes, 3.0' depth. A grassed waterway is a shaped or graded channel, established with suitable vegetation, that carries 

surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive Sediment in 

surface waters. Seeding will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Practice Standard with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for 

buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the overall shape and grade of the waterway. This scenario applies to Grassed 

Waterways with a high quantity of earthwork per acre, typically distinguished by a minimum excavation volume of 3,000 cubic yards per acre of waterway. Excavation 

volume is measured from the original ground surface to the finished ground surface.

Before Situation:

The field has a small to medium gully which is cutting deeper into the field over time. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion result from ephemeral or classic gully 

erosion. Gully has formed in the field as a result of excessive runoff and/or poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is commonly installed to convey runoff from 

concentrated flows, terraces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet.

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 2600' long, 80' bottom, 6:1 side slopes, 3.0' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, although final grading may be 

accomplished using a motor grader. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed 

establishment/protection are needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed according to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if 

needed will be installed using Structure for Water Control (587). Inlet structures for the drainage tile, if needed, will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Excavation Volume of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 21,233.00

Scenario Total Cost: $79,471.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 2793 $2,346.12

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 21233 $75,164.82

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #14 - Waterway

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. A grassed waterway is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters. The practice is installed using a dozer or scraper, with final grading by motor grader. Waterway area is measured from top of bank to top of 

bank. Seeding will be completed under Critical Area Planting (342). Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the overall shape and grade of the 

waterway. This scenario applies to all sizes of grassed waterways.

Before Situation:

Runoff leaves the field at an erosive velocity. The field has a small gully which is cutting deeper into the field over time, resulting in excessive erosion, sedimentation, and 

water quality degradation. Gully formation is a result of uncontrolled, concentrated runoff, and tillage or cropping techniques.

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 1500' long, and has a 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, and 1.5' depth. Runoff is conveyed from terraces, diversions, or other water concentrations 

without causing erosion, and the gully has been eliminated. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or 

mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are needed, use Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed according to Subsurface Drain (606). Use 

Structure for Water Control (587) and/or Underground Outlet (620) for inlets and outlets as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Acres of waterway constructed, me

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.24

Scenario Total Cost: $3,602.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,905.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 500 $420.00

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 1500 $2,265.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #15 - Waterway, Crop Season Construction

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Practice Standard 

with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation, associated work to construct the 

overall shape and grade of the waterway, and foregone income for the loss of crop income due to construction of the practice during the growing season.

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and/or poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also 

commonly installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, with final grading with motor 

grader. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are 

needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed using 

Structure for Water Control (587). If inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.24

Scenario Total Cost: $7,177.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,788.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 500 $420.00

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 1500 $5,310.00

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.62 $218.54

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.62 $165.51

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #40 - Base Waterway

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1200 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth, half excavation. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable 

vegetation to carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and 

Excessive Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding area is 20% greater than waterway area to account for disturbed 

areas. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the overall shape and grade of the waterway. 

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also commonly 

installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 1200 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed 

establishment/protection are needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if 

needed will be installed using Structure for Water Control (587). If inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet 

(620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,581.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,581.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 800 $1,208.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 412 - Grassed Waterway

Scenario: #41 - With Checks

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1200 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth, half excavation. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable 

vegetation to carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. Fabric or stone checks are installed every 100 feet along the length of the waterway 

perpendicular to waterflow and are 2/3 the waterway top width to reduce maintenance and provide temporary protection until vegetation is established. Fabric Checks 

are installed 18' deep with 12' laid over on the surface. (Alternatively, rock checks could be installed). This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & 

Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding area is 20% greater than waterway area 

to account for disturbed areas. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the overall shape and grade of the waterway. 

Before Situation:

The field has a small gulley which is cutting deeper into the field as time goes on, so it needs to be stopped or controlled. Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a 

result from ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Gully has formed in field as a result of excessive runoff and poor cropping techniques. Grassed waterway is also commonly 

installed to covey runoff from concentrated flows, terrarces, diversions, or water control structures or similar practices to a suitable, stable outlet. 

After Situation:

Installed grassed waterway is 1200 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.5' depth. Fabric checks are installed every 100 feet along the length of the waterway. The practice 

is installed using a dozer. Fabric or stone checks are installed with small backhoe and labor. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection 

are needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606). Outlets, if needed will be installed 

using Structure for Water Control (587). If inlet Structures are needed with the drainage tile, then those will be installed using Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Acre of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,867.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,867.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 33 $80.19

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 33 $198.99

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 800 $1,208.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 30 $19.80

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 2 $161.54

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 132 $274.56
Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #172 - High Species Diversity on Fallow or Non-Cropland, no Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

A wildlife habitat evaluation or plant community inventory indicates a potential to improve wildlife habitat by altering the current vegetation conditions (species diversity, 

richness, structure and pattern) by establishing herbaceous plants. This practice scenario applies to areas not in production (e.g. ??? fallow areas, forest understory, and 

non-cropped areas in and around crop fields). Control or suppression of a well-established existing stand of undesirable vegetation should have been completed prior to 

implementation of this practice scenario through successful implementation of other practice standards, including CPS 314 or CPS 315. This scenario, when appropriately 

installed, will address the inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern by planting a moderately diverse mix of seeds that is readily available for purchase from multiple 

vendors in combination with minor seed bed preparation. Seed is typically not available from traditional agricultural vendors and requires making a special order or 

ordering online. Other practices are planned and installed after planting to manage the habitat as needed.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and do not have the potential to meet or exceed the 

minimum criteria through vegetative management activities alone. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or 

to increase planning criteria above a current planning criterion of at least 50% of the potential. Undesirable vegetation has been controlled or suppressed with the use of 

other conservation practice standards prior to implementation of this practice scenario.

After Situation:

Desired species have been planted and the Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. The area will provide the identified habitat requirements 

for target species and will meet or exceed planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: acres planted (per acre)

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,938.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $587.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 5 $2,349.05

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #173 - Specialized Habitat Requirements on Non-Cropland, no Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

A wildlife habitat evaluation or plant community inventory indicates a potential to improve wildlife habitat by altering the current vegetation conditions (species diversity, 

richness, structure and pattern) by establishing herbaceous plants. This practice scenario applies to areas not in production (e.g. ??? fallow areas, forest understory, and 

non-cropped areas in and around crop fields). Control or suppression of a well-established existing stand of undesirable vegetation should have been completed prior to 

implementation of this practice scenario through successful implementation of other practice standards, including CPS 314 or CPS 315. This scenario, when appropriately 

installed, will address the inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern by planting a specialized and often diverse mix of seeds that is NOT readily available for purchase, 

in combination with minor seed bed preparation. Seed is not available from traditional agricultural vendors and requires making a special order. Cost of seed is high due 

to limited availability and plant materials selected are needed to meet specific habitat requirements or ecosystem functions. Other practices are planned and installed 

after planting to manage the habitat as needed.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and do not have the potential to meet or exceed the 

minimum criteria through vegetative management activities alone. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or 

to increase planning criteria above a current planning criterion of at least 50% of the potential. Undesirable vegetation has been controlled or suppressed with the use of 

other conservation practice standards prior to implementation of this practice scenario.

After Situation:

Desired species have been planted and the Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. The area will provide the identified habitat requirements 

for target species and will meet or exceed planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: acres planted (per acre)

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,084.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,216.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2618

Legumes and/or Forbs Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

limited species availability.

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a highly specialized mix composed of species required to meet specific 

wildlife/pollinator habitat or ecological requirements. Seed may have 

limited availability and be difficult to obtain, e.g. milkweed species. 

Restricted for use with Wildlife Habitat Planting (420) and Restoration 

of Rare or Declining Natural Communities (643). Includes materials and 

shipping.

Acres $1,006.04 5 $5,030.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #174 - High Species Diversity on Cropland with Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

A wildlife habitat evaluation or plant community inventory indicates a potential to improve wildlife habitat by altering the current vegetation conditions (species diversity, 

richness, structure and pattern) and changing use (annual crop to permanent vegetation) by establishing herbaceous plants. This practice scenario applies to cropland 

currently in production. The inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern is met by planting a moderately diverse mix of seeds that is readily available for purchase from 

multiple vendors in combination with minor seed bed preparation. Seed is typically not available from traditional agricultural vendors and requires making a special order 

or ordering online. Weed pressure is minimal due to current and past management. Control or suppression of existing undesirable vegetation is accomplished through a 

single herbicide treatment. Post-planting weed treatment, beyond normal practice maintenance if necessary, will be accomplished by applying additional practice 

standards as appropriate.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and do not have the potential to meet or exceed the 

minimum criteria through vegetative management activities alone. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or 

to increase planning criteria above a current planning criterion of at least 50% of the potential.

After Situation:

The land is no longer in crop production. Desired species have been planted and the Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. As a result, the 

site will meet or exceed planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: acres planted (per acre)

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,547.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,109.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 5 $33.95

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 5 $1,762.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 5 $2,349.05

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #175 - Specialized Habitat Requirements on Cropland with Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

A wildlife habitat evaluation or plant community inventory indicates a potential to improve wildlife habitat by altering the current vegetation conditions (species diversity, 

richness, structure and pattern) and changing use (annual crop to permanent vegetation) by establishing herbaceous plants. This practice scenario applies to cropland 

currently in production. The inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern is met by planting a specialized and often diverse mix of seeds that is NOT readily available for 

purchase, in combination with minor seed bed preparation. Seed is not available from traditional agricultural vendors and requires making a special order. Cost of seed is 

high due to limited availability and plant materials selected are needed to meet specific habitat requirements or ecosystem functions. Weed pressure is minimal due to 

current and past management. Control or suppression of existing undesirable vegetation is accomplished through a single herbicide treatment. Post-planting weed 

treatment, beyond normal practice maintenance if necessary, will be accomplished by applying additional practice standards as appropriate.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and do not have the potential to meet or exceed the 

minimum criteria through vegetative management activities alone. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or 

to increase planning criteria above a current planning criterion of at least 50% of the potential.

After Situation:

The land is no longer in crop production. Desired species have been planted and the Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. As a result, the 

site will meet or exceed planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: acres planted (per acre)

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,763.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,552.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 5 $33.95

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 5 $1,762.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Native Perennial Grasses, 2618

Legumes and/or Forbs Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

limited species availability.

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a highly specialized mix composed of species required to meet specific 

wildlife/pollinator habitat or ecological requirements. Seed may have 

limited availability and be difficult to obtain, e.g. milkweed species. 

Restricted for use with Wildlife Habitat Planting (420) and Restoration 

of Rare or Declining Natural Communities (643). Includes materials and 

shipping.

Acres $1,006.04 5 $5,030.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #176 - Very Small Acreage (<.5 ac) Planting with Seedlings

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applicable to very small areas (typical size is ?? acre) in need of wildlife habitat establishment by planting of potted plants, plugs, or similar non-seed plant 

materials. A wildlife habitat evaluation found the need to improve habitat by altering the current vegetative conditions (diversity, richness, structure or pattern). Potted 

herbaceous plants and/or shrubs are planted in 6??? rows and a 4??? spacing (1815 plants/acre) to facilitate access of the site with mechanical equipment (e.g., ATV, hand 

or riding mower) for weed control or other management after establishment. The site preparation requires treatment with broad spectrum herbicide to kill the existing 

vegetation. Then tillage, smoothing and firming of the soil is conducted prior to planting the plant materials.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and have the potential to meet or exceed the minimum 

criteria. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or to increase planning criteria above a current planning 

criterion of at least 50% of the potential.

After Situation:

The Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. The site has been mechanically and chemically treated and planting has occurred. The area is 

adequately stocked with desired species and full coverage of permanent vegetation is expected. The vegetative cover will provide the desired habitat requirements for 

target wildlife. The site meets or exceeds planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: sg ft planted (1/4 acre)

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 10,890.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,141.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.25 $3.64

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 0.25 $2.57

Chemical, ground application, 1313

forested land

Chemical application performed by ground equipment where trees and 

terrain impede passage of wide boom sprayers. Utilizes forestry 

application methods that include heavy equipment such as skidders. 

Includes material, equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $113.62 0.25 $28.41

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.25 $3.17

Tree & Shrub, Specialty 1523 Locally-sourced, culturally significant, native, or other highly specialized 

trees and shrubs (e.g., American chestnut, American elm, Canada yew, 

Sagebrush). Potted or balled and burlapped tree or shrub, 5 gallon. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $13.69 454 $6,215.26

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #177 - Low Species Diversity on Non-Cropland, no Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

A wildlife habitat evaluation or plant community inventory indicates a potential to improve wildlife habitat by altering the current vegetation conditions (species diversity, 

richness, structure and pattern) by establishing herbaceous plants. This practice scenario applies to areas not in production (e.g. ??? fallow areas, forest understory, and 

non-cropped areas in and around crop fields). Control or suppression of a well-established existing stand of undesirable vegetation should have been completed prior to 

implementation of this practice scenario through successful implementation of other practice standards, including CPS 314 or CPS 315. This scenario, when appropriately 

installed, will address the inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern by planting a low diversity, low cost mix of readily available seeds in combination with minor seed 

bed preparation. Other practices are planned and installed after planting to manage the habitat as needed.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and do not have the potential to meet or exceed the 

minimum criteria through vegetative management activities alone. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or 

to increase planning criteria above a current planning criterion of at least 50% of the potential. Undesirable vegetation has been controlled or suppressed with the use of 

other conservation practice standards prior to implementation of this practice scenario.

After Situation:

Desired species have been planted and the Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. The area will provide the identified habitat requirements 

for target species and will meet or exceed planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: acres planted (per acre)

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,543.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $308.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2753

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and 

less). Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $190.81 5 $954.05

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #178 - Low Species Diversity on Cropland with Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

A wildlife habitat evaluation or plant community inventory indicates a potential to improve wildlife habitat by altering the current vegetation conditions (species diversity, 

richness, structure and pattern) and changing use (annual crop to permanent vegetation) by establishing herbaceous plants. This practice scenario applies to cropland 

currently in production. The inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern is met by planting a low diversity, low cost mix of readily available seeds in combination with 

minor seed bed preparation. Weed pressure is minimal due to current and past management. Control or suppression of existing undesirable vegetation is accomplished 

through a single herbicide treatment. Post-planting weed treatment, beyond normal practice maintenance if necessary, will be accomplished by applying additional 

practice standards as appropriate.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and do not have the potential to meet or exceed the 

minimum criteria through vegetative management activities alone. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or 

to increase planning criteria above a current planning criterion of at least 50% of the potential.

After Situation:

The land is no longer in crop production. Desired species have been planted and the Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. As a result, the 

site will meet or exceed planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: acres planted (per acre)

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,687.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $737.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 5 $72.70

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 5 $33.95

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 5 $108.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 5 $1,762.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Native Perennial Grasses, 2753

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and 

less). Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $190.81 5 $954.05

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

Scenario: #272 - Very Small Acreage (<.5 ac) Planting with Seedlings

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applicable to very small areas (typical size is ?? acre) in need of wildlife habitat establishment by planting of potted plants, plugs, or similar non-seed plant 

materials. A wildlife habitat evaluation found the need to improve habitat by altering the current vegetative conditions (diversity, richness, structure or pattern). Potted 

herbaceous plants and/or shrubs are planted in 6??? rows and a 4??? spacing (1815 plants/acre) to facilitate access of the site with mechanical equipment (e.g., ATV, hand 

or riding mower) for weed control or other management after establishment. The site preparation requires treatment with broad spectrum herbicide to kill the existing 

vegetation. Then tillage, smoothing and firming of the soil is conducted prior to planting the plant materials.

Before Situation:

Vegetative habitat conditions (species diversity, richness, structure and pattern) do not meet planning criteria and have the potential to meet or exceed the minimum 

criteria. Current conditions and management are insufficient to address identified limiting habitat factor(s) or to increase planning criteria above a current planning 

criterion of at least 50% of the potential.

After Situation:

The Wildlife Habitat Planting criteria have been successfully implemented. The site has been mechanically and chemically treated and planting has occurred. The area is 

adequately stocked with desired species and full coverage of permanent vegetation is expected. The vegetative cover will provide the desired habitat requirements for 

target wildlife. The site meets or exceeds planning criteria for inadequate wildlife habitat.

Feature Measure: sg ft planted (1/4 acre)

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 10,890.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,141.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.25 $3.64

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 0.25 $2.57

Chemical, ground application, 1313

forested land

Chemical application performed by ground equipment where trees and 

terrain impede passage of wide boom sprayers. Utilizes forestry 

application methods that include heavy equipment such as skidders. 

Includes material, equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $113.62 0.25 $28.41

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.25 $3.17

Tree & Shrub, Specialty 1523 Locally-sourced, culturally significant, native, or other highly specialized 

trees and shrubs (e.g., American chestnut, American elm, Canada yew, 

Sagebrush). Potted or balled and burlapped tree or shrub, 5 gallon. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $13.69 454 $6,215.26

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #1 - Bareroot, machine plant (FI)

Scenario Description:

This scenario is for machine planting of bareroot woody species. Typically installed in or at the edge of cropland or pasture this scenario is used to address Wind Erosion 

and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife resource concerns. Specifically, the establishment of dense vegetation in a linear design can be used to reduce erosion caused 

by wind and provide for several habitat elements depending on the needs identified in the habitat assessment. Tree rows are spaced 15 feet apart. Depending on design 

and plant species selection, this scenario can provide: habitat conectivity, food, and cover for wildlife . The 422 standard for wildlife criteria calls for a minimum of two 

species of native plants.Typical installation involves tillage to prepare the site for planting using Site Preparation (490). Trees and/or shrubs adapted for local climatic and 

soil conditions are typically planted at 8 foot intervals (this will vary with species selection and density goals). Plant species adapted to the local climatic and soil 

conditions that address the resource concern will be stated in the specification for the site. There is tremendous overlap between this practice and conservation practice 

380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 provides for the use of 

herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate establishment use practice 382, Fence. Seedbed preparation will be completed thru 490, Tree/Shrub Site 

Preparation.

Before Situation:

Erosion by wind exceeds soil loss tolerance. Habitat patches lack connectivity and cover is inadequate to allow wildlife to exploit cropland food resources.

After Situation:

Erosion by wind is reduced to tolerable limits. Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife is addressed for needs identified in the resource assessment. Habitat patches are 

connected by dense hedgerow vegetation. Food resources in crop fields are made availble by their proximity to hedgerow cover. Planting may include fruit and mast 

(fruit produced by trees such as nuts) bearing species, improving food supply, depending on needs being addressed. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,001.45

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 6 $36.12

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.2 $70.50

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.1 $26.70

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.2 $39.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 200 $192.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #2 - Container, Machine Plant (FI)

Scenario Description:

This scenario is for machine planting of containerized woody species. Typically installed in or at the edge of cropland or pasture this scenario is used to address Wind 

Erosion and Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife resource concerns. Specifically, the establishment of dense vegetation in a linear design can be used to reduce 

erosion caused by wind and provide for several habitat elements depending on the needs identified in a habitat assessment. Tree rows are spaced 15 feet apart. 

Depending on design and plant species selection, this scenario can provide: habitat conectivity, food, and cover for wildlife. The 422 standard for wildlife criteria calls for a 

minimum of two species of native plants.Typical installation involves tillage to prepare the site for planting using Site Preparation (490). Trees and/or shrubs adapted for 

local climatic and edaphic (pertaining to the soil) conditions are typically planted at 8 foot intervals (this will vary with species selection and density goals). Plant species 

adapted to the local climatic and edaphic conditions that address the resource concern will be stated in the specification for the site. There is tremendous overlap 

between this practice and conservation practice 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody 

plants where practice 422 provides for the use of herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate establishment use practice 382, Fence. Seedbed preparation will 

be completed thru 490, Tree/Shrub Site Preparation.

Before Situation:

Erosion by wind exceeds soil loss tolerance. Habitat patches lack connectivity and cover is inadequate to allow wildlife to exploit cropland food resources.

After Situation:

Erosion by wind is reduced to tolerable limits. Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife is addressed for needs identified in the resource assessment. Habitat patches are 

connected by dense hedgerow vegetation. Food resources in crop fields are made availble by their proximity to hedgerow cover. Planting may include fruit and mast 

(fruit of trees such as nuts) bearing species, improving food supply, depending on needs being addressed. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,123.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 8 $48.16

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.2 $70.50

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.1 $26.70

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.2 $39.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 200 $192.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #12 - Pollinator Habitat 

Scenario Description:

In addition to the traditional hedgerow purposes where pollinator habitat is an additional wildlife habitat concern this scenario addresses the resource concern of 

inadequate fish and wildlife habitat. It provides both physical habitat by providing areas that are not disturbed by annual tillage and supplementle pollen and nector by 

establishing flowering Trees or shrubs. Typical installation is in or at the edge of cropland or pasture. Typical installation involves tillage to prepare the site for planting. 

Flowering trees and shrubs adapted for local climatic and edaphic conditions are typically planted at eight foot intervals (this will vary with species selection and density 

goals). A native grass adapted to the local climatic and edaphic conditions will be drilled into the site at a rate that will achieve a minimum of 20 seeds per square foot. 

Species adapted to local climatic and edaphic conditions will be listed in the specification for the site. There is tremendous overlap between this practice and 

conservation practice 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 

provides for the use of herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate establishment use practice 382, Fence.

Before Situation:

 Pollen and nector sources are lacking or are only availble for part of the growing season. Large cropland tracks lack undisturbed areas for ground nesting bees

After Situation:

Flowering plants supply pollen and nector throughout the growing season. Undisturbed areas provide nesting sites for bees and other native pollinators. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,854.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 0.25 $5.52

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.25 $5.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 100 $177.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 100 $53.00

Animal repellent, chemical 1907 Chemical animal repellent to protect trees from animal damage. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $31.52 0.25 $7.88

Animal repellent, organic 1908 Organic compound animal repellent to protect trees from animal 

damage. Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $39.81 1 $39.81

Native and Introduced Perennial 2502

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Low Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include 

biennials and a small percentage of annual species for establishment 

purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium 

density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $88.80 2 $177.60
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #13 - Wildlife, Warm Season Grass 

Scenario Description:

Typically installed in or at the edge of cropland or pasture this scenario is used to address the Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife resource concern. Specifically, the 

establishment of dense vegetation in a linear design can be used to provide for several habitat elements depending on the needs identified in the habitat assessment. This 

scenario can provide: habitat conectivity, food, and cover for wildlife depending on design and plant species selection. The 422 standard for wildlife criteria calls for a 

minimum of two species of native plants.Typical installation involves tillage to prepare the site for planting. 2 Trees and/or shrubs adapted for local climatic and edaphic 

conditions are typically plant at eight foot intervals (this will vary with species selection and density goals). A mix of 2 native warm season grasses adapted to the local 

climatic and edaphic conditions will be drilled into the site at a rate that will achieve a minimum of 20 seeds per square foot. The species list in the component section of 

this scenario are strictly for deriving a cost. Plant species adapted to the local climatic and edaphic conditions that address the resource concern will be stated in the 

specification for the site. There is tremendous overlap between this practice and conservation practice 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is 

that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 provides for the use of herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate 

establishment use practice 382, Fence.

Before Situation:

Habitat patches lack connectivity. Cover is inadequate to allow wildlife to exploit cropland food resources. Berries and mast are limited.

After Situation:

Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife is addressed for needs identified in the resource assessment. Habitat patches are connected by dense hedgerow vegetation. Food 

resources in crop fields are made availble by their proximity to hedgerow cover. Planting may include fruit and mast bearing species, improving food supply, depending on 

needs being addressed. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,931.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 0.25 $5.52

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.25 $5.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 100 $202.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 100 $53.00

Animal repellent, chemical 1907 Chemical animal repellent to protect trees from animal damage. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $31.52 0.25 $7.88

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 2 $269.94
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #14 - Wildlife machine plant

Scenario Description:

This scenario is for machine planting of woody species.Typically installed in or at the edge of cropland or pasture this scenario is used to address the Inadequate Habitat 

for Fish and Wildlife resource concern. Specifically, the establishment of dense vegetation in a linear design can be used to provide for several habitat elements depending 

on the needs identified in the habitat assessment. This scenario can provide: habitat conectivity, food, and cover for wildlife depending on design and plant species 

selection. The 422 standard for wildlife criteria calls for a minimum of two species of native plants.Typical installation involves tillage to prepare the site for planting. 2 

Trees and/or shrubs adapted for local climatic and edaphic conditions are typically plant at eight foot intervals (this will vary with species selection and density goals). A 

mix of 2 native grasses adapted to the local climatic and edaphic conditions will be drilled into the site at a rate that will achieve a minimum of 20 seeds per square foot. 

The species list in the component section of this scenario are strictly for deriving a cost. Plant species adapted to the local climatic and edaphic conditions that address the 

resource concern will be stated in the specification for the site. There is tremendous overlap between this practice and conservation practice 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt 

establishment. The main difference is that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 provides for the use of herbaceous materials. If a 

fence is needed to facilitate establishment use practice 382, Fence.

Before Situation:

Habitat patches lack connectivity. Cover is inadequate to allow wildlife to exploit cropland food resources. Berries and mast are limited.

After Situation:

Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife is addressed for needs identified in the resource assessment. Habitat patches are connected by dense hedgerow vegetation. Food 

resources in crop fields are made availble by their proximity to hedgerow cover. Planting may include fruit and mast bearing species, improving food supply, depending on 

needs being addressed. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $654.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 0.25 $5.52

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.25 $5.44

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 2 $12.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 100 $202.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 100 $53.00

Animal repellent, chemical 1907 Chemical animal repellent to protect trees from animal damage. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $31.52 0.25 $7.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #15 - Wildlife Cool Season

Scenario Description:

Typically installed in or at the edge of cropland or pasture this scenario is used to address the Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife resource concern. Specifically, the 

establishment of dense vegetation in a linear design can be used to provide for several habitat elements depending on the needs identified in the habitat assessment. This 

scenario can provide: habitat conectivity, food, and cover for wildlife depending on design and plant species selection. The 422 standard for wildlife criteria calls for a 

minimum of two species of native plants.Typical installation involves tillage to prepare the site for planting. 2 Trees and/or shrubs adapted for local climatic and edaphic 

conditions are typically plant at eight foot intervals (this will vary with species selection and density goals). A native cool season grass adapted to the local climatic and 

edaphic conditions will be drilled into the site at a rate that will achieve a minimum of 20 seeds per square foot. The species list in the component section of this scenario 

are strictly for deriving a cost. Plant species adapted to the local climatic and edaphic conditions that address the resource concern will be stated in the specification for 

the site. There is tremendous overlap between this practice and conservation practice 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is that 

conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 provides for the use of herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate establishment use 

practice 382, Fence.

Before Situation:

Habitat patches lack connectivity. Cover is inadequate to allow wildlife to exploit cropland food resources. Berries and mast are limited.

After Situation:

Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife is addressed for needs identified in the resource assessment. Habitat patches are connected by dense hedgerow vegetation. Food 

resources in crop fields are made availble by their proximity to hedgerow cover. Planting may include fruit and mast bearing species, improving food supply, depending on 

needs being addressed. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,814.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 0.25 $5.52

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.25 $5.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 100 $177.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 100 $53.00

Animal repellent, chemical 1907 Chemical animal repellent to protect trees from animal damage. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $31.52 0.25 $7.88

Native and Introduced Perennial 2502

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Low Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include 

biennials and a small percentage of annual species for establishment 

purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium 

density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $88.80 2 $177.60
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #17 - Contour, exotic grass

Scenario Description:

 Typically installation of this scenario is within an annually cropped field. The hedge row is planted on the contour to provide a physical and visual aid to contour farming. 

This scenario is used to facilitate additional measures that address the resource concerns of; sheet and rill soil erosion and Water Quality Degradation, excess sediment in 

surface waters. Trees, shrubs, and exotic grasses adapted for local climatic and edaphic conditions are selected. Typically woody species are planted at eight foot intervals 

(this will vary with species selection and density goals). Species selected should be at least three feet tall at maturity. There is tremendous overlap between this practice 

and conservation practice 380 Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 

provides for the use of herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate establishment use practice 382, Fence.

Before Situation:

 Contour farming practices are made difficult or less effective due to a lack of visual clues as to the location of the contours. Soil is lost to sheet and rill erosion. 

Sediments are deposited into surface waters. 

After Situation:

Hedgerow planted on the contour presents a physical and visual guide for tillage and planting operations on the contour. Soil erosion from sheet and rill sources is 

reduced and the resultant deposition of sediment to surface waters is in turn reduced. 

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,118.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 0.25 $5.52

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.25 $5.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 100 $202.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 100 $53.00

Animal repellent, chemical 1907 Chemical animal repellent to protect trees from animal damage. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $31.52 0.25 $7.88

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 2 $269.94
Practice: 422 - Hedgerow Planting

Scenario: #21 - Contour

Scenario Description:

Typically installation of this scenario is within an annually cropped field. The hedge row is planted on the contour to provide a physical and visual aid to contour farming. 

This scenario is used to facilitate additional measures that address the resource concerns of; sheet and rill soil erosion and Water Quality Degradation, excess sediment in 

surface waters. Trees, shrubs, and grasses adapted for local climatic and edaphic conditions are typically planted at eight foot intervals (this will vary with species selection 

and density goals). Species selected should be at least three feet tall at maturity. There is tremendous overlap between this practice and conservation practice 380 

Windbreak/Shelterbelt establishment. The main difference is that conservation practice 380 is exclusively woody plants where practice 422 provides for the use of 

herbaceous materials. If a fence is needed to facilitate establishment use practice 382, Fence.

Before Situation:

Contour farming practices are made difficult or less effective due to a lack of visual clues as to the location of the contours. Soil is lost to sheet and rill erosion. Sediments 

are deposited into surface waters. 

After Situation:

Hedgerow planted on the contour presents a physical and visual guide for tillage and planting operations on the contour. Soil erosion from sheet and rill sources is 

reduced and the resultant deposition of sediment to surface waters is in turn reduced.

Feature Measure: Length of Hedgerow

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,839.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 0.25 $5.52

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.25 $5.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 100 $202.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 100 $53.00

Animal repellent, chemical 1907 Chemical animal repellent to protect trees from animal damage. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Gallons $31.52 0.25 $7.88

Native and Introduced Perennial 2502

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Low Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include 

biennials and a small percentage of annual species for establishment 

purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium 

density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $88.80 2 $177.60
Practice: 423 - Hillside Ditch

Scenario: #11 - Channel, Hand Labor

Scenario Description:

A hillside ditch is a channel that has a supporting ridge on the lower side, constructed with hand labor across the slope at defined gradient and horizontal or vertical 

interval, with or without a vegetative barrier to safely control the flow of water by diverting runoff from upland sloping areas to a stable outlet. The resource concerns 

addressed include soil erosion, water quality degradation, and excess runoff.

Before Situation:

Hillside Ditch applies to steeply sloping sites where surface flow is damaging sloping upland, and there is sufficient soil depth for constructing a hillside ditch system. 

Hillside ditches shall not be used to provide protection to buildings, roads, or other improvements. 

After Situation:

A hillside ditch is constructed with hand labor and consist of approximately 300 feet of channel that has a supporting ridge on the lower side, constructed across the slope 

at defined gradient and horizontal or vertical interval, with or without a vegetative barrier to safely control the flow of water by diverting runoff from upland sloping areas 

to a stable outlet. A hiiside ditch controls and reduces soil erosion, water quality degradation, and excess runoff. Any needed vegetation will be completed under critical 

area planting (342). Erosion control during construction activities will use Stormwater Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Critical Area Planting (342), 

Grassed Waterway (412), Underground Outlet (620), Mulching (484), Subsurface Drainage (606), Lined Waterway or Outlet (468), Underground Outlet (620), and Grade 

Stabilization Structure (410).

Feature Measure: Length of Channel

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $539.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20.5 $489.54

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 423 - Hillside Ditch

Scenario: #12 - Channel, Equipment

Scenario Description:

A hillside ditch is a channel that has a supporting ridge on the lower side, constructed with equipment across the slope at defined gradient and horizontal or vertical 

interval, with or without a vegetative barrier to safely control the flow of water by diverting runoff from upland sloping areas to a stable outlet. The resource concerns 

addressed include soil erosion, water quality degradation, and excess runoff.

Before Situation:

A hillside ditch applies to steeply sloping sites where surface flow is damaging sloping upland, and there is sufficient soil depth for constructing a hillside ditch system. 

Hillside ditches shall not be used to provide protection to buildings, roads, or other improvements. 

After Situation:

A hillside ditch is constructed with equipment and consists of approximately 200 cubic yards of excavated channel that has a supporting ridge on the lower side, 

constructed across the slope at defined gradient and horizontal or vertical interval, with or without a vegetative barrier to safely control the flow of water by diverting 

runoff from upland sloping areas to a stable outlet. A hiiside ditch controls and reduces soil erosion, water quality degradation, and controls excess runoff. Any needed 

vegetation will be completed under critical area planting (342). Erosion control during construction activities will use Stormwater Runoff Control (570). Other associated 

practices include Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), Underground Outlet (620), Mulching (484), Subsurface Drainage (606), Lined Waterway or Outlet 

(468), Underground Outlet (620), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410).

Feature Measure: Volume of Channel

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $713.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 200 $486.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 0.5 $153.41
Practice: 428 - Irrigation Ditch Lining

Scenario: #10 - Concrete Lining

Scenario Description:

Construct quarter mile of concrete (2.5 inch in thickness) lining in an existing ditch alignment to convey water from the source of supply to a field or fields in a farm 

distribution system. Typical scenario includes filling the old ditch with on-site fill material, compacting, and constructing an 8 ft pad with on site fill material. This scenario 

does not include any check or outlets gates. A trapezoidal trencher forms the ditch (typical cross-section: 1 ft bottom, 2 ft depth including freeboard, and 1:1 side slope) 

and lining with concrete slip forms (total width = 7.32 ft). Resource Concerns: Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water; Soil erosion - Excessive bank erosion 

from streams shorelines or channels. Associated Practices: 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral; 388-Irrigation Field Ditch; 443-Irrigation System, Surface or Subsurface Water; 

533-Pumping Plant; 430-Irrigation Pipeline; 587-Structure for Water Control.

Before Situation:

Leaky and erosive earthen irrigation ditch.

After Situation:

Impervious lining prevents seepage, reduces energy use and improves water quality and irrigation efficiency.

Feature Measure: Surface Area of Lining

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,074.00

Scenario Total Cost: $24,373.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 75 $17,365.50

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 368 $894.24

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 782 $3,026.34

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 4 $3,087.52
Practice: 428 - Irrigation Ditch Lining

Scenario: #11 - Flexible Lining

Scenario Description:

Construct quarter mile of uncovered flexible membrane (30mil HDPE) lining in an existing ditch alignment to convey water from the source of supply to a field or fields in a 

farm distribution system. Typical scenario includes subgrade preparation via clearing & grubbing, shaping old channel with no bedding or geotextile cushion to place, and 

placing membrane with 8 inch tuck/anchor on each side (total liner width = 8 ft). Scenario assumes typical trapezoidal ditch (1 ft bottom, 2 ft depth including freeboard, 

and 1:1 side slope). Resource Concerns: Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water; Soil erosion - Excessive bank erosion from streams shorelines or 

channels. Associated Practices: 320-Irrigation Canal or Lateral; 388-Irrigation Field Ditch; 443-Irrigation System, Surface or Subsurface Water; 533-Pumping Plant; 430-

Irrigation Pipeline; 587-Structure for Water Control.

Before Situation:

Leaky and erosive earthen irrigation ditch.

After Situation:

Impervious lining prevents seepage, reduces energy use and improves water quality and irrigation efficiency.

Feature Measure: Surface Area of Lining

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 1,173.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,590.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 16 $1,068.96

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 48 $2,419.20

Materials

Synthetic Liner, 30 mil 1238 Synthetic 30 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc. membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.56 10560 $5,913.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #1 - PVC, by the pound

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of PVC pipeline. Typical practice sizes range from 6-inch to 12-inch. Construct 1,300 feet of 6-inch, pressure rating 80 psi (SDR 51), 

PVC plastic irrigation pipe (PIP) with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum of 2.5 feet of ground cover. The unit is weight of pipe in pounds. 1,300 feet 

of 6-inch, SDR 51 PVC PIP weighs 1.49 lb/ft, or a total of 1,937 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, dog-legs 

(risers), and inline valves. Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding 

requirements. Resource Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, 

Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface & Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping Plant

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy use.

Feature Measure: Weight of pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 1,937.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,171.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 1300 $1,794.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 8 $157.12

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1937 $4,590.69

Pipe, steel, smooth wall, 1381

galvanized, weight priced

Steel manufactured into galvanized smooth wall pipe Pound $2.18 220 $479.60

Valve, Alfalfa valve with riser, 2127

PVC, 8 in.

Alfalfa valve assembly including, 8 inch diameter metal alfalfa valve, 

PVC tee, 36 inch PVC riser for connection to a pipeline. Materials only.

Each $532.07 1 $532.07

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #3 - PVC, 10-in by the foot

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of PVC pipeline. Construct 1,300 feet of 10-inch, pressure rating 80 psi (SDR 51), PVC plastic irrigation pipe (PIP) with 

appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum of 2.5 feet of ground cover. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust 

blocks, dog-legs (risers), and inline valves. Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special 

bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation 

System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface & Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping Plant

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems or reservoirs, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy 

use.

Feature Measure: Length of pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,364.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 1300 $3,835.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 8 $157.12

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 5248 $12,437.76

Pipe, steel, smooth wall, 1381

galvanized, weight priced

Steel manufactured into galvanized smooth wall pipe Pound $2.18 360 $784.80

Valve, Alfalfa valve with riser, 2127

PVC, 8 in.

Alfalfa valve assembly including, 8 inch diameter metal alfalfa valve, 

PVC tee, 36 inch PVC riser for connection to a pipeline. Materials only.

Each $532.07 1 $532.07

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #30 - HDPE, by the pound

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size & Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS & Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 24-

inch; typical practice sizes range from 2-inch to 24-inch; and typical scenario size is 6-inch. Construct 1/4 mile (1,320 feet) of 6-inch, Class 130 (SDR-13.5), HDPE pipeline 

with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum 2 feet of ground cover. The unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 1,320 feet of 8-inch, Class 130 (SDR13.5), HDPE weighs 4.024 lb/ft, or a total of 5,312 pounds. Appurtenances include: fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are 

included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical 

installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 

436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface & Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping Plant; 634 - Waste Transfer. 

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems or reservoirs, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy 

use.

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 5,312.00

Scenario Total Cost: $24,298.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 1320 $1,821.60

Fuser for HDPE Pipe 1383 Fusing machine for 1 to 12 inch diameter HDPE pipe joints. Equipment 

costs only. Does not include labor.

Hours $28.86 16 $461.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 5312 $19,707.52

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #33 - PVC, by pound, boring

Scenario Description:

Below ground installation of PVC pipeline. Typical practice sizes range from 6-inch to 12-inch. Construct 1,300 feet of 6-inch, pressure rating 80 psi (SDR 51), PVC plastic 

irrigation pipe (PIP) with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum of 2.5 feet of ground cover. Includes boring 52 lineal feet under a heavily used road, such 

as a state or county highway which has an average of 12' wide lanes, 6' shoulder width, and 8' width sideslopes. The unit is weight of pipe in pounds. 1,300 feet of 6-inch, 

SDR 51 PVC PIP weighs 1.49 lb/ft, or a total of 1,937 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, dog-legs (risers), and 

inline valves. Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. 

Resource Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - 

Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface &Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 -Pumping Plant

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy use.

Feature Measure: weight of pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 1,937.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,059.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 1250 $1,725.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Horizontal Boring, Greater Than 3 1132

in. diameter

Includes equipment, labor and setup. Feet $118.95 52 $6,185.40

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 8 $157.12

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1937 $4,590.69

Pipe, steel, smooth wall, 1381

galvanized, weight priced

Steel manufactured into galvanized smooth wall pipe Pound $2.18 220 $479.60

Valve, Alfalfa valve with riser, 2127

PVC, 8 in.

Alfalfa valve assembly including, 8 inch diameter metal alfalfa valve, 

PVC tee, 36 inch PVC riser for connection to a pipeline. Materials only.

Each $532.07 1 $532.07

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #34 - PVC, by the foot

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of PVC pipeline. Construct 1,300 feet of Schedule 40, PVC, plastic irrigation pipe (PIP) with appurtenances, installed below ground 

with a minimum of 2.5 feet of ground cover. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, dog-legs (risers), and inline valves. 

Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource 

Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - 

Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface & Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping Plant

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems or reservoirs, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy 

use.

Feature Measure: Length of pipe

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,460.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 1300 $1,794.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 7007 $16,606.59

Pipe, steel, smooth wall, 1381

galvanized, weight priced

Steel manufactured into galvanized smooth wall pipe Pound $2.18 320 $697.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #97 - PVC (Iron Pipe Size), less than or equal to 4 inch, Small Scale System

Scenario Description:

Below ground installation of PVC (Iron Pipe Size) pipeline. PVC (IPS) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 36- inch; typical practice sizes range from 

2-inch to 24-inch; and typical scenario size is 3-inch. Construct 260 feet of 3-inch, Class 125 (SDR-32.5), PVC pipeline with appurtenances, installed below ground with a 

minimum of 2 feet of ground cover. The unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 260 feet of 3-inch, Class 125 (SDR-32.5) PVC pipe weighs 0.730 lb/ft, or a total of 189.8 

pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material 

(additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special 

bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation 

System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface &Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping 

Plant; 634 - Waste Transfer.

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems or reservoirs, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy 

use.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 260.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,540.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 260 $358.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 208.78 $494.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #98 - HDPE (Iron Pipe Size and Tubing), less than or equal to 2 inch, Small Scale

Scenario Description:

Below ground installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size &Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS &Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 24-inch; and typical 

scenario size is 1-inch. Construct 260 feet of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR 13.5), HDPE pipeline with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum 2 feet of ground 

cover. The unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 260 feet of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR-13.5), HDPE weighs 0.16 lb/ft, or a total of 42 pounds. Appurtenances include: 

fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost 

of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: 

Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, 

Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface &Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping Plant; 634 - Waste Transfer

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems or reservoirs, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy 

use.

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 42.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,686.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $63.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 260 $358.80

Fuser for HDPE Pipe 1383 Fusing machine for 1 to 12 inch diameter HDPE pipe joints. Equipment 

costs only. Does not include labor.

Hours $28.86 8 $230.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 46 $170.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #99 - Surface HDPE (Iron Pipe Size and Tubing), less than or equal to 2 inch, Small Scale

Scenario Description:

On-ground surface installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size &Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS &Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 24-inch; and 

typical scenario size is 1-inch. Construct 260 feet of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR 13.5), HDPE pipeline with appurtenances. The unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 260 feet 

of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR-13.5), HDPE weighs 0.16 lb/ft, or a total of 42 pounds. Appurtenances include: fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and 

inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow 

preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. 

Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface &Subsurface; 

447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 - Pumping Plant; 634 - Waste Transfer

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems or reservoirs, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy 

use.

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 42.00

Scenario Total Cost: $449.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 46 $170.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline

Scenario: #117 - Boring, by the pound, small scale

Scenario Description:

Below ground installation of PVC pipeline. Typical practice sizes range from 1-inch to 2-inch. Construct 200 feet of 2-inch, pressure rating 125 psi (SDR 32.5), PVC plastic IPS 

with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum of 2.5 feet of ground cover. Includes boring 200 lineal feet under a heavily used road, such as a state or 

county highway which has an average of 12' wide lanes, 6' shoulder width, and 8' width sideslopes. The unit is weight of pipe in pounds. 200 feet of 2-inch SDR 32.5, PVC, 

IPS, weighs 0.36 lb/ft for a total of 73 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, dog-legs (risers), and inline valves. 

Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: 

Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water; Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, 

Sprinkler; 443 - Irrigation System, Surface &Subsurface; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 533 -Pumping Plant

Before Situation:

Pipeline needed to replace or supplement inefficient irrigation conveyance systems.

After Situation:

Pipeline installed to convey and/or distribute water to irrigation systems, minimizing non-beneficial water use, reducing soil erosion, and/or reducing energy use.

Feature Measure: weight of pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 73.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,220.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $222.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Horizontal Boring, Less Than 1131

Equal 3 in. diameter

Includes equipment, labor and setup. Feet $76.38 200 $15,276.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 73 $173.01

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 432 - Dry Hydrant

Scenario: #6 - PVC

Scenario Description:

A non-pressurized permanent PVC pipe assembly system installed into an adequate water source with an all weather access that permits the withdrawal of water by 

suction for fire suppression, livestock, small acreage irrigation, or wetland management. The location must have an adequate volume of water available, facilitate 

movement to and from the hydrant site, and where a source of water is needed for fire suppression, livestock, small acreage irrigation, or wetland management.

Before Situation:

A location where an adequate volume of water is available, facilitate movement to and from the hydrant site, and where an adequate source of water is needed for fire 

suppression, livestock, small acreage irrigation, or wetland management

After Situation:

The typical dry hydrant will use 200 ft. of 6 inch PVC pipe, installed into an adequate water source with an all weather access that permits the withdrawal of water by 

suction. The pipe is fitted with an intake strainer and hydrant head for quick connect/release. Plastic pipe is protected from ultraviolet rays. The dry hydrant is constructed 

by installing the pipe using a backhoe or other trenching equipment. Vegetation of disturbed areas will be completed under critical area planting (342). All weather access 

will use Heavy Use Area Protection (561). Erosion control during construction activities will use Stormwater Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Pond 

(378), Dam (402), Access Road (560), and Access Control (472).

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,417.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,417.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 200 $276.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 716 $1,696.92

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 122 $423.34

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Screen, plastic, 6 in. 1999 6 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $21.15 1 $21.15

Pipe, PVC, 6 in., Elbow, 45 degree 2283 Pipe, PVC Schedule 40, 6 inch Diameter, Elbow, 45 Degree. Material 

cost only.

Each $66.85 3 $200.55

Pipe, PVC, 6 in., Coupling 2286 Pipe, PVC Schedule 40, 6 inch Diameter, Coupling. Material cost only. Each $28.96 7 $202.72

Dry Hydrant head assembly, 6 in. 2288

PVC, 90 degree

Dry Hydrant assembly for 6 inch PVC pipe consisting of 90 degree pipe 

elbow, bronze insert with 6-inch NST male thread, rubber 'O' ring, 

threaded cap, conical strainer, and end cap. Material cost only.

Each $560.01 1 $560.01

Pipe, PVC Cement 2292 PVC Cement, 16 Oz. For Use With PVC, CPVC, ABS, Schedule 40 And 80 

Pipes And Fittings.

Each $26.34 1 $26.34

Pipe, PVC Primer Cleaner 2293 PVC Primer, 16 Oz. For Use With PVC and CPVC Pipes And Fittings. Each $23.54 1 $23.54

Post, Rebar 1/2 in. x 8 ft. 2294 Fabricated post consisting of 1/2 inch diameter rebar approximately 8 

feet long. Material only.

Each $2.93 1 $2.93

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir

Scenario: #1 - Embankment Dam 

Scenario Description:

The reservoir, created by an embankment built across a natural depression, with an 18' diameter principal spillway outlet through the embankment, is controlled by a 

canal-style gate. Outlet structure is constructed with watertight plasatic pipe appropriate for this use, commonly PVC pipe. Outlet can also serve as overflow protection 

with a 12' diameter standpipe and tee to the 18' pipe. Any watershed runoff will be diverted around reservoir. It will be built with approximately 4,500 cubic yards of onsite material. It will be about 19.9 feet high and 200 feet long and hold approximately 1,000,000 gallons (3 acre-feet). The top of berm will be 10 feet wide and the 

embankment side slopes will be 2.5 H to 1 V up and down stream. Resource concern: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated practices include: 

521 - Pond Sealing or Lining (various); 320 - Irrigation Canal or Lateral; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 428 - Irrigation Ditch Lining; 533 - Pumping Plant; 440 series - Irrigation 

Systems; 378 - Pond; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 484 - Mulching; and 342 - Critical Area Planting.

Before Situation:

Current system relies on an intermittent or low-flow rate water source. This results in untimely and/or inefficient water application. Divert water around - no spillway

After Situation:

This is an embankment, installed across a natural off-stream intermittent watercourse, used to store water for subsequent irrigation. It will be used to accumulate and 

store water for timely and efficient application of water through an irrigation system The water source could be a well, irrigation district pipeline, and/or a pump from a 

stream. It is designed to deliver water by gravity to an open ditch or non-pressurized pipeline, generally in excess of 5 cfs. All earthen materials will be from on-site 

sources. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Compacted Eartfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,231.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 4500 $17,415.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1587

wall, LTE-12 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe LTE-12 inch diameter. Materials only.

Pound $3.20 65.2 $208.64

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 874.5 $2,142.53

Screw gate, cast iron, 18 in. 1917

diameter, 10/0 head

18 inch diameter cast iron screw (canal) gate rated at 10 seating head 0 

feet unseating head. Materials only.

Each $1,509.75 1 $1,509.75

Coupling, HDPE CPT Dual Wall, 1921

Tee, 18 in. x 18 in. x 12 in.

Tee, 18 inch x 18 inch x 12 inch - HDPE CPT Tee. Materials only. Each $534.37 1 $534.37

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir

Scenario: #2 - Embankment Reservoir > 30 Acre-Feet

Scenario Description:

This is a very large embankment reservoir with a 18' diameter drain pipe through the embankment controlled by a canal-type gate. It is designed to accumulate, store, and 

deliver water by gravity to an open ditch or non-pressurized pipeline, in excess of 5 cfs. It will have a top width of 12ft and centerline length of embankment of 5,280 

feet. Average fill of 10 feet and the side slopes will be no steeper than 3 H to 1 V inside and out. It will be built with approximately 105,000 cubic yards of on-site 

material. It will have a maximum water depth of 8 feet with 2 feet of freeboard and no auxiliary spillway. Volume is approximately 320 ac-ft (104,500,000 gallons). Critical 

Area Planting and Mulching is required. Resource Concern: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices: 521 - Pond Sealing or Lining 

(various); 320 - Irrigation Canal or Lateral; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 428 - Irrigation Ditch Lining; 533 - Pumping Plant; 440 series - Irrigation Systems; 447 - Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery; 378 - Pond; 484 - Mulching; and 342 - Critical Area Planting.

Before Situation:

Current system relies on an intermittent or low-flow rate water source. This results in untimely and/or inefficient water application.

After Situation:

The rectangular reservoir will be built on a relatively flat site and be used to accumulate and store water for timely application through an irrigation system. The water 

source could be a stream or an irrigation district canal. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Compacted Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 104,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $439,706.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 104200 $403,254.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Pipe, smooth steel, weight priced 1325 Smooth Steel pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials. Materials 

only.

Pound $3.49 7100 $24,779.00

Screw gate, cast iron, 18 in. 1917

diameter, 10/0 head

18 inch diameter cast iron screw (canal) gate rated at 10 seating head 0 

feet unseating head. Materials only.

Each $1,509.75 1 $1,509.75

Catwalk, metal 1918 Metal pedestrian walk way giving access to the valve on a structure, 

typically 3 ft. wide with railing. Materials only.

Feet $108.16 50 $5,408.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir

Scenario: #3 - Excavated Tailwater Pit

Scenario Description:

This is an excavated pit with a control structure. It is designed to accumulate, store, deliver or regulate water for a surface irrigation system. It will have a bottom width of 

20 ft and length of 1,250 feet. The side slopes will be no steeper than 1.5 H to 1 V inside and out. It will be built with approximately 20,000 cubic yards of on-site material. 

It will have a maximum water depth of 10 feet with 1 feet of freeboard. Volume is approximately 12 ac-ft (3,950,303 gallons). Resource concern: Insufficient Water - 

Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices: 521 - Pond Sealing or Lining (various); 320 - Irrigation Canal or Lateral; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 428 - Irrigation 

Ditch Lining; 533 - Pumping Plant; 440 series - Irrigation Systems; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; 378 - Pond; 484 - Mulching; and 342 - Critical Area Planting.

Before Situation:

Current system relies on an intermittent or low-flow rate water source. This results in untimely and/or inefficient water application.

After Situation:

An excavated regulating reservoir will be built on a relatively flat site and be used to accumulate and store water for timely application through an irrigation system. The 

water source could be a stream or an irrigation district canal. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Earth Excavated

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 19,600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $50,263.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 19600 $47,628.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 436 - Irrigation Reservoir

Scenario: #47 - Plastic tank, less than or equal to 1,000 gallons

Scenario Description:

A 1,000 Gallon, above-ground, High Density Polyethylene plastic enclosed tank, is installed on 6' of well-compacted drain rock or a 4' thick reinforced concrete support 

pad, to store water from a reliable source for irrigation of an area less than one acre. The scenario assumes the typical dimensions of the tank are 72' in diameter and 66' 

tall. The scenario also assumes a 96' diameter gravel base or concrete pad to extend a minimum of 12' past the base of tank for adequate foundation support. This cost 

estimate scenario is for cost of the tank and pad only and does not include estimate for pumps, pipe, or connecting fittings. Resource Concern: Insufficient Water - 

Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 533 - Pumping 

Plant; 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery.

Before Situation:

Insufficient volume of water to complete an irrigation cycle at the required flow rate.

After Situation:

An above-ground plastic tank, constructed to withstand the elements, is used to accumulate and store water between irrigation cycles for a very small irrigation system. 

This allows for an improved flow rate and timing of water application. Sources of water could be a well, a domestic water system, a large roof area, a water ram , or a 

pump drawing water from a stream.

Feature Measure: Volume of Tank Storage

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,782.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 1 $102.14

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 6 $344.52

Plate compactor 1915 Manually guided vibratroy plate compactor. Equipment only. Hours $19.20 1 $19.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Tank, Poly enclosed Storage, 300- 1074

1000 gal

Water storage tanks. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $1.68 1000 $1,680.00

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1 $16.52

Cable, Galvanized steel 2182 Galvanized steel aircraft cable in 7 x 19 strand core. Materials and 

shipping only.

Feet $0.68 40 $27.20

Anchor, earthen, low disturbance, 2184

large

Low disturbance, galvanized or aluminum alloy earthen anchors with 

holding power greather than 3,000 pounds in normal soil. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $59.59 4 $238.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation

Scenario: #2 - Surface PE, with emitters, trees and shrubs

Scenario Description:

A micro-irrigation system, utilizing surface PE tubing (can be placed on trellis or above ground) with emitters to provide irrigation for an orchard, vineyard, windbreak, or 

other specialty crop grown in a grid pattern. The typical system is a permanent system, installed on a 3 row 1000' windbreak on the ground surface (total of 3000' lf). The 

windbreak has a plant spacing of 8 feet between trees. This system utilizes emitters at each tree or plant as the water application device, amounting to 375 emitters for 

this system. This system typically includes a filter system, PE tubing, HDPE or PVC manifolds, emitters, etc. This practice applies to systems designed to discharge < 60 

gal/hr at each individual lateral discharge point. Does not include Pump, Power source, Water source (well or reservoir). Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - 

Inefficient use of irrigation water, Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface 

waters, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 380-Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment, 533-Pumping Plant, 449- Irrigation Water 

Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 433 - Irrigation Flow Measurement, 610 - Salinity & Sodic Soil Management, 434 - Soil Moisture Measurement, 328-Conservation 

Crop Rotation, and 590 Nutrient Management.

Before Situation:

A tree row has an insufficient available water source causing plant health (establishment and persistence) concerns. 

After Situation:

A surface placed microirrigation system is utilized to provide highly efficient irrigation to a tree row to address plant health concerns. 

Feature Measure: Number of trees or shrubs watered

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 375.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,466.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 33.6 $124.66

Micro Irrigation, surface drip 1488

tubing

Tubing is installed above ground for surface drip irrigation, and 

connections to the supply and flushing laterals. Tubing has emitters 

built in.

Feet $0.35 3000 $1,050.00

Micro Irrigation, screen filter, < 1617

100 gpm

Screen filter for Micro Irrigation used in small systems. Includes filter. 

No controls are included or needed.

Each $100.31 1 $100.31
Practice: 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation

Scenario: #3 - Surface PE, with emitters, high tunnel

Scenario Description:

A micro-irrigation system, utilizing surface PE tubing (can be placed on trellis or above ground) with emitters to provide irrigation in a seasonal high tunnel used for various 

vegetables or specialty crops grown in a grid pattern. The typical system is a permanent system, installed in a 30 ft by 72 ft high tunnel, with crop rows spaced at 12' to 18' 

with narrow alley walkways every other row. This system utilizes emitters at or near each plant as the water application device. This system typically includes a filter 

system, PE tubing, HDPE or PVC manifolds, emitters, etc. This practice applies to systems designed to discharge < 60 gal/hr at each individual lateral discharge point. Does 

not include Pump, Power source, Water source (well or reservoir). Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, Degraded Plant Condition - 

Undesirable plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and 

facilities. Associated Practices: 798-Seasonal High Tunnel System for Crops, 533-Pumping Plant, 449- Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 433 - 

Irrigation Flow Measurement, 610 - Salinity & Sodic Soil Management, 434 - Soil Moisture Measurement, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, and 590 Nutrient Management.

Before Situation:

Vegetable or specialty crop has an insufficient available water source causing plant health (establishment and persistence) concerns.

After Situation:

A surface placed microirrigation system is utilized to provide highly efficient irrigation to vegetable or specialty crop to address plant health concerns. 

Feature Measure: Area inside high tunnel system

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,381.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Valve, Pressure Relief 1042 Materials for <2 inch Pressure Relief Valve Each $133.90 1 $133.90

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 12 $44.52

Micro Irrigation, emitters or 1489

sprays and tubing

Emitters or sprays that are installed above ground for micro or drip 

irrigation. Includes installation and connections to the supply and 

flushing laterals. Tubing for the emitters is included in this item.

Feet $1.21 1050 $1,270.50

Micro Irrigation, screen filter, < 1617

100 gpm

Screen filter for Micro Irrigation used in small systems. Includes filter. 

No controls are included or needed.

Each $100.31 1 $100.31

Valve, Double Check Backflow 2559

Preventer

Designed for installation on potable water lines to protect against both 

backsiphonage and backpressure of polluted water into the water 

supply. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $449.87 1 $449.87
Practice: 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation

Scenario: #15 - Surface Tape <5 acres

Scenario Description:

A micro-irrigation system using drip tape or similar type micro-irrigation material placed on the soil surface for vegetables or field crops. Spacing of drip tape or similar 

type micro irrigation material is based on soil type or row alignment but will typically vary from 18' to 36'. This system typically includes a filter system, PE manifolds 

fittings, drip tape, etc. This practice applies to systems designed to discharge < 60 gal/hr at each individual discharge point. Does not include Pump, power source, water 

source. Surface placed drip tape will not meet the 441 practice life and will normally need replacement every year. After first installation drip tape will be replaced as 

operation and maintenance issue as required for proper operation of the system. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, Degraded 

Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment 

and Facilities. Associated Practices: 533-Pumping Plant, 449-Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 610 - Salinity & Sodic Soil Management, 328-

Conservation Crop Rotation, 590 Nutrient Management, and 595-Itegrated Pest Management. 

Before Situation:

A typical before irrigation situation would normally be an existing inefficient sprinkler or surface irrigation system for vegetable or other crop production system. The 

existing irrigation system would experience poor, nonuniform irrigation applicatons and significant water losses affecting both water quantity and water quality. 

After Situation:

A surface placed microirrigation system is utilized to provide highly efficient irrigation to a field. Water applications are reduced and runoff eliminated. Offsite water 

quality is improved, and on site water use is reduced. Drip tape will be replaced as operation and maintenance issue as required for proper operation of the system. A 

typical scenario consists of a 1/2 acre irrigated field with lateral spacing of 2 feet. 

Feature Measure: Acres in System

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.50

Scenario Total Cost: $2,427.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,855.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 49 $181.79

Micro Irrigation, surface drip tape 2522 Tape is installed above ground for surface drip irrigation on annual 

crops, includes installation, and connections to the supply and flushing 

laterals.?? Tape is a minimum of 10 mil thick and has emitters built in.

Feet $0.11 11979 $1,317.69

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation

Scenario: #75 - Small Microirrigation System

Scenario Description:

A small scale surface microirrigation system using drip tape or similar type micro-irrigation material placed on the soil surface to irrigate vegetables or field crops. Typically 

applied on a 40' by 40' plot, with 24' spaced rows, and emitters on a 12' spacing. Submains break plot into several smaller zones. System includes disk filter and chemical 

injection for chemigation. Water meter is not included. Natural Resource Concern(s): Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, Degraded Plant Condition - 

Undesirable plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities. 

Associated Practices: 533 - Pumping Plant, 449 - Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 436 - Irrigation Reservoir, 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation, and 

590 - Nutrient Management.

Before Situation:

A field has an inefficient garden-hose based sprinkler irrigation system causing irrigation water loss that impacts water quality and water quantity.

After Situation:

A surface placed microirrigation system is utilized to provide highly efficient irrigation to a small plot. Water applications are reduced and runoff eliminated. Offsite water 

quality is improved, and on-site water use is reduced.

Feature Measure: Microirrigation area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,976.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 160 $220.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 51 $120.87

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 1600 $144.00

Micro Irrigation, disk filter, 2465

manual flush

Disk filter for Micro irrigation system. Includes filter, plumbing, and 

connections. Unit is each filter in a filter station that often includes 2 or 

more filters.

Each $161.83 1 $161.83

Valve, Double Check Backflow 2559

Preventer

Designed for installation on potable water lines to protect against both 

backsiphonage and backpressure of polluted water into the water 

supply. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $449.87 1 $449.87

Micro-irrigation, chemical 2788

injection equipment, small scale

Chemical injection system includes complete 3/4 inch bypass and 

suction line kit, injector, appurtenances, backflow prevention, 2 gallon 

chemigation/fertigation tank. No pump needed. Materials and shipping 

only.

Each $122.00 1 $122.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation

Scenario: #76 - Small Surface Tape System

Scenario Description:

A small scale micro-irrigation system using drip tape or similar type micro-irrigation material placed on the soil surface for vegetables or field crops. Spacing of drip tape or 

similar type micro irrigation material is based on soil type or row alignment but will typically vary from 18' to 36'. This system typically includes a filter system, PE 

manifolds fittings, drip tape, etc. This practice applies to systems designed to discharge < 60 gal/hr at each individual discharge point. Does not include Pump, power 

source, water source. Surface placed drip tape will not meet the 441 practice life and will normally need replacement every year. After first installation drip tape will be 

replaced as operation and maintenance issue as required for proper operation of the system. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, 

Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, and Inefficient Energy Use -

Equipment and Facilities. Associated Practices: 533-Pumping Plant, 449-Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 610 - Salinity & Sodic Soil Management, 

328-Conservation Crop Rotation, 590 Nutrient Management, and 595-Itegrated Pest Management.

Before Situation:

A field has an inefficient garden-hose based sprinkler irrigation system causing irrigation water loss that impacts water quality and water quantity.

After Situation:

A surface placed microirrigation system is utilized to provide highly efficient irrigation to a field. Water applications are reduced and runoff eliminated. Offsite water 

quality is improved, and on site water use is reduced. Drip tape will be replaced as operation and maintenance issue as required for proper operation of the system. A 

typical scenario consists of a 1,600 square feet irrigated field with lateral spacing of 2 feet.

Feature Measure: Microirrigation area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,624.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 23 $85.33

Micro Irrigation, disk filter, 2465

manual flush

Disk filter for Micro irrigation system. Includes filter, plumbing, and 

connections. Unit is each filter in a filter station that often includes 2 or 

more filters.

Each $161.83 1 $161.83

Micro Irrigation, surface drip tape 2522 Tape is installed above ground for surface drip irrigation on annual 

crops, includes installation, and connections to the supply and flushing 

laterals.?? Tape is a minimum of 10 mil thick and has emitters built in.

Feet $0.11 880 $96.80

Valve, Double Check Backflow 2559

Preventer

Designed for installation on potable water lines to protect against both 

backsiphonage and backpressure of polluted water into the water 

supply. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $449.87 1 $449.87

Micro-irrigation, chemical 2788

injection equipment, small scale

Chemical injection system includes complete 3/4 inch bypass and 

suction line kit, injector, appurtenances, backflow prevention, 2 gallon 

chemigation/fertigation tank. No pump needed. Materials and shipping 

only.

Each $122.00 1 $122.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation

Scenario: #88 - SDI (Subsurface Drip Irrigation)

Scenario Description:

A subsurface drip irrigation system (SDI) with a lateral spacing between 37-59 inches. This buried drip irrigation system utilizes a thinwall dripperline or tape with inline 

emitters at a uniform spacing for the system laterals. The dripperline or tape is normally installed by being plowed in approx 10-14 inches deep with a chisel shank type 

plow equipped with tape reels. This type of drip irrigation system utilizes a buried supply manifold with automated zone control valves and a buried flush manifold with 

manual flush valves. This permanent micro-irrigation system includes an automated filter station, flow meter, backflow prevention device, automated control box or timer, 

the thinwall dipperline or tape for laterals, both a supply and a flushing manifold and numerous types of water control valves. This is an all-inclusive system starting with 

the filter station including all required system components out to the flush valves. The water supply line from the water source to the filter station is an irrigation pipeline 

(430) and is not included as part of this system Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable 

plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities. Associated 

Practices: 533-Pumping Plant, 449- Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 433 - Irrigation Flow Measrement, 610 - Salinity & Sodic Soil Management, 

434 - Soil Moisture Measurement, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, and 590 Nutrient Management.

Before Situation:

Typical before irrigation situation would normally be an existing inefficient surface or sprinkler irrigation system on a cropland or hayland field. The existing irrigation 

system would experience poor, non-uniform irrigation applications and significant water losses affecting both water quantity and water quality

After Situation:

A typical practice would be the installation of a subsurface drip irrigation system (SDI) on a 60 acre cropland or hayland field. The system lateral (thinwall dripperline or 

tape) spacing would 40 inches. This highly efficient SDI (buried) irrigation system provides irrigation water directly to the plant root zone eliminating application losses 

resulting in a very high water application efficiency and properly designed these SDI systems are capable of very uniform water applications. Typical field size is 60 acres. 

Feature Measure: Acres in System

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $155,604.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,593.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 6800 $9,384.00

Micro Irrigation, chemical 1987

injection equipment

Chemical Injector Pump, plus chemigation check valve, injector ports, 

and appurtenances, Installation included.

Each $2,151.39 1 $2,151.39

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 4800 $11,376.00

Micro Irrigation, Media Filter, 30 1482

to 48 in. Dia. tank, Equipped for 

Automatic Flush

Sand or media filter for Micro irrigation system. Includes plumbing, 

connections and automatic controller. Unit is complete and installed. 

Unit price per filter, not per filter station.

Each $6,901.92 3 $20,705.76

Micro Irrigation, screen filter, => 1484

100 gpm

Screen filter for Micro irrigation system with 100 gpm or greater 

capacity. Includes plumbing, connections and automatic controller. Unit 

price per filter, not per filter station.

Each $1,070.30 1 $1,070.30

Micro Irrigation, control valves 1485

and timers

Automatic controller and timer, to turn on and off the sets for micro 

irrigation, and valves. Based on control unit, not number of valves 

controlled.

Each $417.16 1 $417.16

Micro Irrigation, buried drip tape 2521 Tape that is installed underground for sub-surface drip irrigation, 

includes installation, and connections to the supply and flushing 

laterals.?? Tape is a minimum of 10 mil thick thick and has emitters 

built in. Includes labor and installtion.

Feet $0.13 824108 $107,134.04

Water Meter, Microirrigation, >2 2523

in. and <= 8 in., with Volume 

Totalizer

Microirrigation water meter greater than 2 inch and less than or equal 

to 8 inch diameter, with volume totalizer. Includes materials only.

Each $2,593.51 1 $2,593.51

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #1 - Gravity to Pivot Conversion

Scenario Description:

Description: Installation of a low pressure center pivot system. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion (Concentrated flow erosion e.g. irrigation induced), Insufficient 

Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, Excessive salts in surface and ground waters, Excess 

pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or compost applications). Associated Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation Water 

Management (449)

Before Situation:

A 160 acre field is flood irrigated. Application of irrigation water is inefficient and non-uniform. Irrigation water is typically over applied in some parts of the field, and 

under applied in others. Deep percolation from the excess irrigation delivers excess nutrients salts, and chemicals to the ground water. Runoff from the field contains 

excess nutrients and degrades the receiving waters. Irrigated induced erosion is excessive.

After Situation:

The existing surface irrigation system is converted to a low pressure center pivot. Corners are converted to non-irrigated cropland. The pivot is 1300 feet in length with 

pressure regulators and low pressure sprinklers. The new irrigation system applies water efficiently and uniformly to maintain adequate soil water for the desired level 

of plant growth. Deep percolation and field runoff is eliminated and there are no excess nutrients, salts or pathogens delivered to the receiving waters. Irrigation induced 

runoff is eliminated. This center pivot scenario includes all hardware from the pivot point, including the concrete pad the pivot is placed on.

Feature Measure: Length of Center Pivot Lateral

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $98,348.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $75.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Irrigation, Center pivot system 317

with appurtenances, fixed cost 

portion

Fixed cost portion of the center pivot system with appurtenances. This 

portion includes the following items: pivot point, pipe, towers, pad, 

controls, sprinklers.

Each $5,281.01 1 $5,281.01

Irrigation, Center pivot system 318

with appurtenances, variable cost 

portion

Variable cost portion of the center pivot system with appurtenances. 

This portion includes the following items: pivot point, pipe, towers, pad, 

controls, sprinklers.

Feet $71.59 1300 $93,067.00
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #3 - System Renovation, Renozzle with Drops

Scenario Description:

Center Pivot and Linear Move sprinkler systems are used in large crop fields with fairly regular field borders and flat topography. The scenario involves changing nozzles on 

center pivot or lateral move irrigation systems to low-pressure systems to improve efficiency of water use and reduce energy use. This scenario is intended for cropland 

areas where the objective is water or energy conservation. A typical scenario assumes a 1300 LF span, renozzled with low-pressure nozzles and pressure regulators on 

drops. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion (Concentrated flow erosion e.g. irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality 

Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, Excessive salts in surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or 

compost applications), Inefficient Energy Use (Equipment and facilities e.g. pumping) Associated Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation 

Water Management (449)

Before Situation:

A center pivot is irrigating cropland that is being irrigated using a system in which all nozzles are operating above 35 psi on the mainline pipe. The nozzles are worn and 

water is applied non-uniformly. Water runs off the field and degrades the receiving waters. Deep percolation in some parts of the field degrades the ground water quality. 

The runoff from the field causes soil erosion. The high pressure requirement for the system requires excess energy use.

After Situation:

A Center Pivot or Linear Move sprinkler system with a span of 1300 linear feet is re-nozzled with low-pressure nozzles (<=35 psi) and pressure regulators on drops. The 

irrigation water is applied efficiently and uniformly to maintain adequate soil moisture for optimum plant growth. Runoff and deep percolation are eliminated, and the 

surface and ground water is no longer degraded. The irrigation induced soil erosion caused by runoff is also eliminated. The lower pressure sprinklers reduce the energy 

used by the pump when the pump is modified to match lower pressure requirements.

Feature Measure: Number of Nozzles Installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 232.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,062.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $39.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Irrigation, Sprinkler Package, 1480

Renozzle or Retrofit, with drops 

and pressure regulators

Sprinkler Package - Rennovation including sprinkler nozzle addition, 

and/or replacement, including new pressure regulators and drops.

Feet $6.83 1300 $8,879.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #4 - Gravity to Pivot Conversion with VRI

Scenario Description:

Upgrading existing irrigation system with a more uniform and efficient (vendor provided and installed modular system) Center Pivot system for the purpose of protecting 

water quality and utilizing water effectively. Integrating variable application technology onto a center pivot system for precision zone placement of water along the length 

of the system for water savings. A variable application over the field based either 1) EM mapping and a grid system, 2) previous year(s) harvest yield maps or 3) soil 

properties, or combination of each. This scenario is a new system to replace an existing gravity system, with the proper components, nozzles, and pressure regulating 

devices, along with other needed components for installation of a VRI system for more effective utilization of water. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion 

(Concentrated flow erosion e.g. irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and 

ground waters, Excessive salts in surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or compost applications), Inefficient Energy Use 

(Equipment and facilities e.g. pumping), and protection of wetland areas enrolled in conservation program and other environmentally sensititve areas. Associated 

Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation Water Management (449), Wetland Restoration (657), Wetland Enhancement (658) Wetland Creation 

(659)

Before Situation:

Flood application of irrigation water is inefficient and non-uniform. Irrigation water is typically over applied in some parts of the field, and under applied in others. Deep 

percolation from the excess irrigation delivers excess nutrients salts, and chemicals to the ground water and receiving stream. Additional energy input needed to apply 

suffiecint water to entire field. Irrigated induced erosion is excessive. Water runs off the field and degrades the receiving waters. Deep percolation in some parts of the 

field degrades the ground water quality. The runoff from the field causes soil erosion.

After Situation:

A new Center Pivot or Linear Move sprinkler system with a span of 1300 linear feet and a modular VRI system which increases irrigation efficiency and uniformity utilizing 

a modern center pivot system resulting in water savings. The irrigation water is applied efficiently and uniformly to maintain adequate soil moisture for optimum plant 

growth. Runoff and deep percolation are eliminated, and the surface and ground water is no longer degraded. The irrigation induced soil erosion caused by runoff is also 

eliminated. The lower pressure requirements of the sprinklers reduces the energy used by the pump.

Feature Measure: Length of Center Pivot or Lateral M

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $160,891.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $123.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Irrigation, Center pivot system 317

with appurtenances, fixed cost 

portion

Fixed cost portion of the center pivot system with appurtenances. This 

portion includes the following items: pivot point, pipe, towers, pad, 

controls, sprinklers.

Each $5,281.01 1 $5,281.01

Irrigation, Center pivot system 318

with appurtenances, variable cost 

portion

Variable cost portion of the center pivot system with appurtenances. 

This portion includes the following items: pivot point, pipe, towers, pad, 

controls, sprinklers.

Feet $71.59 1300 $93,067.00

Center Pivot VRI, Zone Control 2726 Center pivot system with variable rate irrigation using zone control 

technology. Includes controller, sensors, GPS Unit, pressure regulating 

valve between pump and pivot, tubing, flow control nozzles, and 

expansion nodes.

Linear Feet $48.11 1300 $62,543.00
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #5 - VRI System Retrofit Zone

Scenario Description:

Integrating variable application technology onto a center pivot system for precision zone placement of water along the length of the system for water savings. A variable 

application over the field based either 1) EM mapping and a grid system, 2) previous year(s) harvest yield maps or 3) soil properties, or combination of each. This scenario 

is to renovate a previously irrigation system with proper modular components and pressure regulating devices, with GPS for field location and new control panel to update 

existing panel, along with other needed components to install a VRI system for more effective utilization of water. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion 

(Concentrated flow erosion e.g. irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and 

ground waters, Excessive salts in surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or compost applications), Inefficient Energy Use 

(Equipment and facilities e.g. pumping), and protection of wetland areas enrolled in conservation program and other environemental sesititve areas. Associated 

Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation Water Management (449), Wetland Restoration (657), Wetland Enhancement (658) Wetland Creation 

(659)

Before Situation:

A center pivot or lateral move system has low pressure sprinklers. Water runs off the field and degrades the receiving waters. Deep percolation in some parts of the field 

degrades the ground water quality. The runoff from the field causes soil erosion. The high pressure requirement for the system requires excess energy use.

After Situation:

A Center Pivot or Linear Move sprinkler system with a span of 1300 linear feet is has modular VRI components added to the system which increases irrigation efficiency 

and uniformity utilizing a modern center pivot system resulting in water savings. The irrigation water is applied efficiently and uniformly to maintain adequate soil 

moisture for optimum plant growth. Runoff and deep percolation are eliminated, and the surface and ground water is no longer degraded. The irrigation induced soil 

erosion caused by runoff is also eliminated. The lower pressure requirements of the sprinklers reduces the energy used by the pump.

Feature Measure: Length of Center Pivot or Laterial w

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $66,508.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $51.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Aerial lift, telescoping bucket 1893 Aerial lift, bucket truck or cherry picker, typical 40' boom. Equipment 

only.

Hours $46.14 24 $1,107.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 24 $766.08

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Materials

Center Pivot VRI, Zone Control 2726 Center pivot system with variable rate irrigation using zone control 

technology. Includes controller, sensors, GPS Unit, pressure regulating 

valve between pump and pivot, tubing, flow control nozzles, and 

expansion nodes.

Linear Feet $48.11 1300 $62,543.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #67 - Small Solid Set, Above Ground Laterals

Scenario Description:

A permanent solid set irrigation system with buried submains and above ground laterals such as polyethylene flexible tubing. The typical system is installed on a 2 acre 

orchard or nursery, with plant spacing of 15 feet x 22 feet. Laterals are spaced 22 feet apart, however other spacing for this scenario apply. This system utilizes sprayers or 

minisprinklers at each tree or plant. This system typically includes a filter system, PE tubing laterals, PVC manifolds, and submains, valves, fittings, and emitters. System 

installation does not include a flowmeter, Pump, Power source, Irrigation Water Conveyance to the irrigated field, or Water source (well or reservoir). Resource concerns 

include: Soil Erosion (Concentrated flow erosion e.g. irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality Degradation (Excess nutrients 

in surface and ground waters, Excessive salts in surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or compost applications) Associated 

Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation Water Management (449).

Before Situation:

The typical installation will be on an orchard, nursery, or vineyard with an existing inefficient irrigation system.

After Situation:

An irrigation system is utilized to provide improved distribution uniformity and irrigation efficiency to an orchard, nursery, or vineyard. Runoff and water applications are 

reduced, resulting in offsite water quality improvement and on site water use reduction.

Feature Measure: Area in Irrigation System

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,689.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,344.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 295 $407.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 215 $509.55

Micro Irrigation, emitters or 1489

sprays and tubing

Emitters or sprays that are installed above ground for micro or drip 

irrigation. Includes installation and connections to the supply and 

flushing laterals. Tubing for the emitters is included in this item.

Feet $1.21 3835 $4,640.35

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16

Valve, Double Check Backflow 2559

Preventer

Designed for installation on potable water lines to protect against both 

backsiphonage and backpressure of polluted water into the water 

supply. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $449.87 1 $449.87

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #72 - Linear Move System

Scenario Description:

Installation of a linear or lateral move sprinkler system with sprinklers on drops with or without drag hoses to improve irrigation efficiency and reduce soil 

erosion. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion (Concentrated flow erosion e.g. irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality 

Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, Excessive salts in surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio-solids or 

compost applications), Inefficient Energy Use (Equipment and facilities e.g. pumping) Associated Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation 

Water Management (449) Payment rate is figured per foot of installed hardware length. 

Before Situation:

A 76 acre field is flood irrigated. Application of irrigation water is inefficient and non-uniform. Irrigation water is typically over applied in some parts of the field, and under 

applied in others. Deep percolation from the excess irrigation delivers excess nutrients salts, and chemicals to the ground water. Runoff from the field contains excess 

nutrients and degrades the receiving waters. Irrigated induced erosion is excessive.

After Situation:

A typical unit is approximately 76 acres in size with the sprinkler system up to 1280 feet in length with drop tubes that have a minimum of 30' spacing. The new 

irrigation system has a coefficient of uniformity above 85%. Irrigation water is efficiently and uniformly applied to maintain adequate soil water for the desired level of 

plant growth. Deep percolation and field runoff is eliminated and there are no excess nutrients, salts or pathogens delivered to the receiving waters. Irrigation induced 

runoff is eliminated.

Feature Measure: Length of Linear Move Lateral

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $170,905.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $133.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Linear Move System with 322

appurtenances

Linear/lateral move system including central tower, lateral towers, 

pipes, sprinklers, and controllers.

Acres $2,223.61 76 $168,994.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #76 - Mobile Drip Irrigation Retrofit, Center Pivot

Scenario Description:

Center pivot sprinkler systems are used to irrigate low-profile crops (e.g., alfalfa or small grains) to medium-profile crops (e.g., corn) in fields with regular field borders and 

flat to slightly sloping terrain. The scenario involves retrofitting an existing center pivot irrigation system to incorporate dragged low-pressure drip irrigation lines to 

improve efficiency of water use and reduce energy use. A typical scenario assumes a 1,300 linear foot span, retrofitted to include heavy wall drip hoses in place of nozzles 

or sprinkler heads. Drip hoses are spaced 20 to 60 inches apart and include drippers of 1 to 2 gallon per hour flowrate and are spaced approximately every 6 to 12 inches 

on the driplines. Systems with shorter profile crops may have a manifold that is 3 to 4 feet from the ground. Crops are typically planted in a circular pattern relative to the 

center pivot path. In-line mesh filtration and chemigation is included. Sand separator not included. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion (Concentrated flow erosion e.g. 

irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, Excessive salts in 

surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio solids or compost applications), Inefficient Energy Use (Equipment and facilities e.g. 

operating pressure and volume pumped) Associated Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation Water Management (449)

Before Situation:

A center pivot system that has high pressure sprinklers. The nozzles are worn and water is applied non-uniformly. Water runs off the field and degrades receiving 

waterbodies. Deep percolation in some parts of the field degrades groundwater quality. The high-pressure requirement of the system requires excess energy use.

After Situation:

A center pivot sprinkler system with a span of 1,300 linear feet is retrofitted to apply water through dragged surface drip irrigation lines. Irrigation water is applied 

efficiently and uniformly directly to the soil surface to maintain soil moisture for optimal plant growth. Runoff and deep percolation are addressed, and surface 

waterbodies are no longer degraded. Lower pressure requirements and higher application efficiency of the center mobile drip irrigation retrofit reduces the energy used 

by the pump.

Feature Measure: Length of Lateral Retrofitted

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,706.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Micro Irrigation, chemical 1987

injection equipment

Chemical Injector Pump, plus chemigation check valve, injector ports, 

and appurtenances, Installation included.

Each $2,151.39 1 $2,151.39

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 128 $3,056.64

Materials

Irrigation, Sprinkler Package, 1480

Renozzle or Retrofit, with drops 

and pressure regulators

Sprinkler Package - Rennovation including sprinkler nozzle addition, 

and/or replacement, including new pressure regulators and drops.

Feet $6.83 1300 $8,879.00

Micro Irrigation, screen filter, => 1484

100 gpm

Screen filter for Micro irrigation system with 100 gpm or greater 

capacity. Includes plumbing, connections and automatic controller. Unit 

price per filter, not per filter station.

Each $1,070.30 1 $1,070.30

Micro Irrigation, surface drip 1488

tubing

Tubing is installed above ground for surface drip irrigation, and 

connections to the supply and flushing laterals. Tubing has emitters 

built in.

Feet $0.35 21024 $7,358.40

Cable, Galvanized steel 2182 Galvanized steel aircraft cable in 7 x 19 strand core. Materials and 

shipping only.

Feet $0.68 1300 $884.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 442 - Sprinkler System

Scenario: #79 - Mobile Drip Irrigation Retrofit, Center Pivot

Scenario Description:

Center pivot sprinkler systems are used to irrigate low-profile crops (e.g., alfalfa or small grains) to medium-profile crops (e.g., corn) in fields with regular field borders and 

flat to slightly sloping terrain. The scenario involves retrofitting an existing center pivot irrigation system to incorporate dragged low-pressure drip irrigation lines to 

improve efficiency of water use and reduce energy use. A typical scenario assumes a 1,300 linear foot span, retrofitted to include heavy wall drip hoses in place of nozzles 

or sprinkler heads. Drip hoses are spaced 20 to 60 inches apart and include drippers of 1 to 2 gallon per hour flowrate and are spaced approximately every 6 to 12 inches 

on the driplines. Systems with shorter profile crops may have a manifold that is 3 to 4 feet from the ground. Crops are typically planted in a circular pattern relative to the 

center pivot path. In-line mesh filtration and chemigation is included. Sand separator not included. Resource concerns include: Soil Erosion (Concentrated flow erosion e.g. 

irrigation induced), Insufficient Water (Inefficient use of irrigation water), Water Quality Degradation (Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, Excessive salts in 

surface and ground waters, Excess pathogens and chemicals from manure, bio solids or compost applications), Inefficient Energy Use (Equipment and facilities e.g. 

operating pressure and volume pumped) Associated Practices: Irrigation Pipeline (430), Pumping Plant (533), Irrigation Water Management (449)

Before Situation:

A center pivot system that has high pressure sprinklers. The nozzles are worn and water is applied non-uniformly. Water runs off the field and degrades receiving 

waterbodies. Deep percolation in some parts of the field degrades groundwater quality. The high-pressure requirement of the system requires excess energy use.

After Situation:

A center pivot sprinkler system with a span of 1,300 linear feet is retrofitted to apply water through dragged surface drip irrigation lines. Irrigation water is applied 

efficiently and uniformly directly to the soil surface to maintain soil moisture for optimal plant growth. Runoff and deep percolation are addressed, and surface 

waterbodies are no longer degraded. Lower pressure requirements and higher application efficiency of the center mobile drip irrigation retrofit reduces the energy used 

by the pump.

Feature Measure: Length of Lateral Retrofitted

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,706.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Micro Irrigation, chemical 1987

injection equipment

Chemical Injector Pump, plus chemigation check valve, injector ports, 

and appurtenances, Installation included.

Each $2,151.39 1 $2,151.39

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 128 $3,056.64

Materials

Irrigation, Sprinkler Package, 1480

Renozzle or Retrofit, with drops 

and pressure regulators

Sprinkler Package - Rennovation including sprinkler nozzle addition, 

and/or replacement, including new pressure regulators and drops.

Feet $6.83 1300 $8,879.00

Micro Irrigation, screen filter, => 1484

100 gpm

Screen filter for Micro irrigation system with 100 gpm or greater 

capacity. Includes plumbing, connections and automatic controller. Unit 

price per filter, not per filter station.

Each $1,070.30 1 $1,070.30

Micro Irrigation, surface drip 1488

tubing

Tubing is installed above ground for surface drip irrigation, and 

connections to the supply and flushing laterals. Tubing has emitters 

built in.

Feet $0.35 21024 $7,358.40

Cable, Galvanized steel 2182 Galvanized steel aircraft cable in 7 x 19 strand core. Materials and 

shipping only.

Feet $0.68 1300 $884.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 443 - Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface

Scenario: #2 - Aluminum Gated Pipe

Scenario Description:

Installation of surface Aluminum gated pipe to efficiently convey and distribute irrigation water in irrigation furrows, borders, or contour levees. A typical scenario would 

include 1,320 feet of 10-inch Aluminum gated pipe, with 40 inch gate spacing used to irrigate 60 acres. Appurtenances include: gates, couplings, fittings, in-line valves, 

pressure relief valves, and air vent valves. Does not include flow meters, or a permanent inlet structure with or without filtration. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant productivity and health. Associated Practices: 464-Irrigation Land leveling, 

533-Pumping Plant, 449- Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, and 590 Nutrient Management., 

Before Situation:

Typical before situation would include conveyance of water to surface irrigation distribution points with earthen ditches and distribution to individual furrows, borders, or 

contour levies by siphon tubes. The existing system would experience significant seepage ditch losses, and poor distribution uniformity. 

After Situation:

The installation of aluminum gated pipe will improve distribution uniformity, irrigation efficiency, and eliminate or reduce ditch seepage by conveying and distributing 

irrigation water in irrigation furrows, borders, or contour levees. 

Feature Measure: Area of field served by pipe

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,838.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $313.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Pipe, aluminum, smooth wall, 1382

weight priced

Aluminum manufactured into smooth wall pipe Pound $6.71 2772 $18,600.12
Practice: 443 - Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface

Scenario: #3 - Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Gated Pipe 

Scenario Description:

Installation of surface PVC gated pipe to efficiently convey and distribute irrigation water in irrigation furrows, borders, or contour levees. A typical scenario would include 

1,320 feet of 10-inch PVC gated pipe, with 40 inch gate spacing used to irrigate 60 acres. Appurtenances include: gates, couplings, fittings, in-line valves, pressure relief 

valves, and air vent valves. Does not include flow meters, or a permanent inlet structure with or without filtration. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient 

use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable Plant productivity and health. Associated Practices: 464-Irrigation Land leveling, 533-Pumping Plant, 

449- Irrigation Water Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, and 590 Nutrient Management., 

Before Situation:

Typical before situation would include conveyance of water to surface irrigation distribution points with earthen ditches and distribution to individual furrows, borders, or 

contour levies by siphon tubes. The existing system would experience significant seepage ditch losses, and poor distribution uniformity. 

After Situation:

The installation of PVC gated pipe will improve distribution uniformity, irrigation efficiency, and eliminate or reduce ditch seepage by conveying and distributing irrigation 

water in irrigation furrows, borders, or contour levees. 

Feature Measure: Area of field served by pipe

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,894.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $148.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 3652 $8,655.24
Practice: 443 - Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface

Scenario: #40 - Surge Valve & Controller

Scenario Description:

This scenario would typically include installation and utilization of a 10-inch surge valve with automated controller (including all appurtenances) and installation labor 

needed to convert from a conventional surface irrigated system to a surge irrigation system. Typical field size is 80 acres. The surge valve will be used with PVC Gated Pipe 

or PE Gated Tubing to convey and distribute irrigation water to alternating irrigation sets in a timed surge cycle that results in reduced a surging irrigation application. The 

surging action increases rate of advance along set length, reduces deep percolation at upper end of field, increases uniformity of application along row length, and on 

lower intake soils can significantly reduce runoff losses. The result is improved irrigation efficiency, reduced leaching and erosion losses, and conserved energy. This 

scenario does not include gated pipe or associated practices. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - 

Undesirable plant productivity and health, Water Quality Degradation- Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in 

surface waters, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities Associated Practices: 464-Irrigation Land leveling, 533-Pumping Plant, 449- Irrigation Water 

Management, 430 - Irrigation Pipeline, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, and 590 Nutrient Management. 

Before Situation:

Unacceptable irrigation application uniformity along existing surface irrigation system furrow or border length caused by excessive run length or soil infiltration rate when 

operated with continuous inflow on existing system. System is over irrigated in attempt to adequately irrigate low end of field. 

After Situation:

A surge surface irrigation system is in place. After implementation, distribution uniformity and irrigation efficiency is improved, by reducing irrigation application volume 

and deep percolation losses. Runoff reductions, reduced energy use, and air quality improvements can also result.

Feature Measure: Number of Surge Valves 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,202.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,202.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Surge Valve And Controller 1477 Surge Valve and Controller, with appurtenances. Material cost includes 

valve, controller, all appurtenances, and mobilization.

Each $3,154.84 1 $3,154.84
Practice: 447 - Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery

Scenario: #4 - Drainage Water Recycling

Scenario Description:

'A drainage water recycling system is constructed to collect water from a subsurface drainage system and apply the water back to the field through the existing drainage 

system at appropriate times of year. Drainage water from the subsurface drainage system will be collected in a pond. If a pond needs to be constructed, it will be designed 

and built to meet NRCS CPS 378 criteria; the pond is separate from this scenario. A sump will be constructed so that the collected drainage water in the pond can be 

recovered and recycled through a pipeline system. The pipeline system utilizes a recirculating pipe and includes a buried storage tank at the upper end of the field to allow 

the pump to cycle. The recirculating pipe length is measured from the location of the sump at the pond to the location of the storage tank, and the distribution pipe from 

the storage tank to connect up to the drainage system. A water control structure allows the operator to control the timing and amount of water to enter back into the 

drainage water management system. This scenario applies to all types of drainage water recycling systems; the typical implementation scenario design is based on a 40 

acre subsurface drainage system approx. 1320 ft on each side (1/4 mile square field, with an average land slope of 2%,) with a soil type of Drummer silty clay loam having 

an average drain flow of 0.132 cm/day. A pump moves water from the sump at a rate that can supply the crop field 0.1 inch of water in an 8 hour period. The recirculating 

pipe is 6??? PVC, 1150 ft long from sump to storage tank. Resource concerns that will be addressed by this practice: Nutrients Transported to Surface Water, Pesticides 

transported to surface water, Pathogens and chemicals from manure, biosolids, or compost applications transported to surface water, Plant productivity and health.'

Before Situation:

'Drained water from the field travels off farm in a drainage ditch, carrying excess nutrients with it, and causing water quality issues downstream.'

After Situation:

'Drainage water from a subsurface drainage system is collected and directed into a recovery system where the drained water and associated nutrients can be recycled and 

reused. The drainage water is reapplied through the subsurface drainage system to the crop field during times of year when the extra water will not negatively affect the 

crop or field operations. The subsurface drainage system must be capable of being managed using drainage water management so that the reapplied water will soak into 

the soil instead of drain off; retrofit the drainage system if needed using CPS 606 and 587. Use CPS 378 if a pond is not already in place to capture the drainage water. 

Drainage water from the field is no longer a significant contributor of nutrients to surface water. Associated practices are Pond (378), Subsurface Drain (606), Drainage 

Water Management (554), Structure for Water Control (587) and Critical Area Planting (342).'

Feature Measure: Length of Recirculating Pipe

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $32,552.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $28.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 1236 $3,646.20

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 13 $868.53

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 13 $475.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 5 $252.00

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 10 $215.10

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1011

motor, fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $3,727.95 1 $3,727.95

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1012

motor, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the 

pump and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower 

for the pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed 

cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $252.77 17 $4,297.09

Tank, Concrete, 2500 gallon 1055 Concrete tank for water storage, with riser and lid. Includes materials 

and delivery.

Each $3,583.62 1 $3,583.62

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 2 $33.04
Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 4424.9 $10,487.01

Pumping Plant Pit, Concrete, 1200 1922

Gallon

Precast concrete septic tank structure, 1200 gal capacity, with access 

port and ladder. Materials only.

Each $1,761.67 1 $1,761.67

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2145

Inline, fixed costs portion

Fixed cost portion of Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog type. 

Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Materials only.

Each $367.01 1 $367.01

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2146

Inline, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog 

type. Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Calculate total 

variable costs by multiplying by the structure height x pipe diameter. 

Materials only.

Height x $18.68 36 $672.48

Diameter

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 447 - Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery

Scenario: #27 - Delta Tail Water Pit

Scenario Description:

A recovery pit is constructed to temporality store the excess irrigation water and create a pumping pool so that the excess water can be recovered and reused. Typical pit 

size is trapezoidal ditch with 14ft bottom x 10ft depth x 1750 ft length with 2:1 side slopes. The total yardage of earthwork is 22,037 cy. Construction is typically done 

with either tractors and pans or with dozer and excavator.

Before Situation:

Excess irrigation water collects at lower ends of field and backs up into crops and causes plant stress or causes erosion and travels off farm in a drainage ditch causing 

water quality issues in lower watersheds. Excess irrigation water and runoff during the off season is not capture and unavailable for use.

After Situation:

Excess irrigation water is collected and directed into a recovery system where the water can be recycled and reused for irrigation. Sedimentation has a chance to settle 

out of the water allowing for less sediment to travel down stream. All runoff has an opportunity to be collected.

Feature Measure: Excavated Material

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 22,307.00

Scenario Total Cost: $36,021.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 22037 $34,157.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 447 - Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery

Scenario: #28 - Tailwater Collection Structure

Scenario Description:

A collection structure designed and constructed to efficiently direct excess tailwater from a field and deliver into a tailwater recovery ditch or tailwater recovery pit. 

Typical installation will be a flashboard riser or drop inlet structure placed at edge of field through an earthen berm to direct tailwater into tailwater recovery system. 

Resource concern(s): Water quality, inefficient use of water. Cost estimate based on 18' weir and 55' long, 15' diameter barrel.

Before Situation:

During irrigation, tailwater exits the field in an uncontrolled manner and is being lost downstream and cannot be recovered for future use.

After Situation:

Tailwater is collected through structure at a prescribed location and directed into tailwater recovery system for re-use. Other associated practices may include Irrigation 

reservoir (436), Irrigation and Drainage Tailwater Recovery Pit (447), Surface Drain, Main or Lateral (608), Surface Drain, Field Ditch (607)

Feature Measure: weir dia (in) x barrel length (ft)

Scenario Unit: Inch-Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 990.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,579.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 100 $387.00

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 20 $120.60

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 2 $263.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 623.7 $1,478.17

Steel, Angle, 2 1/2 in. x 2 1/2 in. x 1372

1/4 in.

Materials: Angle, 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch x 1/4 inch. Meets ASTM A36 Feet $4.32 10 $43.20

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 32 $111.04

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 79 $196.71

Coupling, PVC, Tee, 18x15, SDR 51 2365 Materials: - Tee, 18 inch x 15 inch - PVC - SDR 51 - ASTM F2658 Each $711.43 1 $711.43

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #1 - IWM, Basic Technique

Scenario Description:

A low Intensity irrigation water management system for producers using a checkbook method (crop grown, soil moisture conditions prior to irrigation, dates of irrigation 

start and stop, depths of irrigation applied, duration of irrigations, and amount of rainfall). For a typical scenario, soil moisture is determined by the feel method, volumes 

of irrigation water are based on energy or water district bills, records are kept on paper copies, and calculations are made by hand. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

Water Supply-Inefficient use of irrigation water; Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use-Equipment and 

facilities. Associated Practices: 441-Irrigation System Microirrigation, 442-Irrigation System Sprinkler, 443-Irrigation System Surface and Subsurface, 449- Irrigation Water 

Management, 587-Structure for water Control. 

Before Situation:

The irrigator decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success. 

The typical irrigated field is a 125 acre corn field with a sprinkler irrigation system. 

After Situation:

Irrigations are scheduled based on measured crop water requirements. Records are used to evaluate results of past irrigation events and influence future irrigations. The 

irrigator keeps records of soil moisture, crop water use, rainfall amounts and irrigation timing and amounts. At the end of the irrigation season all the data has been 

reviewed and evaluated. Improvements planned for the next season have been determined. 

Feature Measure: Acres under irrigation

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 125.00

Scenario Total Cost: $785.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #2 - IWM, Intermediate Technique, 1st year

Scenario Description:

This practice includes the installation of electrical soil moisture sensors such as capacitance or resistance sensors that are monitored to determine soil moisture. This 

scenario includes purchasing soil moisture sensors, installation equipment (probe or auger), and a data logger to log continuous soil moisture data that can be downloaded 

to a personal computer and associated graphing software. This scenario is intended to be used as a one-time payment for the first year in multiple year IWM contracts. 

Typical Scenario involves installation of sensors at a single location in a 125 acre field of sprinkler irrigated cropland. Producer periodically monitors soil moisture sensors 

during the growing season. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity 

and health, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 449- Irrigation Water Management, 587-Structure for water Control, 328-

Conservation Crop Rotation, 590-Nutrient Management, 442-Irrigation System, Sprinkler, and Irrigation System, Microirrigation 441.

Before Situation:

Producer uses feel method to estimate soil moisture for scheduling irrigation in the field. 

After Situation:

Producer has installed at least three sensors at each monitoring site to a depth of three feet with one sensor representing each foot of depth. Producer periodically 

downloads continuously recorded soil moisture measurements that are used to schedule irrigation more effectively resulting in improved irrigation water management 

and reduced energy use. 

Feature Measure: Number of measuring sites

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,003.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,003.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Data Logger 1453 Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management. Materials only. Each $720.50 1 $720.50

Soil Moisture Sensor 1456 Soil moisture resistance sensor with 10 foot cables. Equipment only. Each $75.17 3 $225.51

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #3 - IWM, Intermediate Technique, Subsequent Years

Scenario Description:

This practice includes the installation of electrical soil moisture sensors such as capacitance or resistance sensors that are monitored to determine soil moisture. This 

scenario includes the installation of soil moisture sensors and a data logger(s) to log continuous soil moisture data that can be downloaded to a personal computer and 

associated graphing software. This scenario is intended to be used as a subsequent payment for multiple year IWM contracts after the monitoring equipment was 

purchased or is already available. Typical Scenario involves installation of sensors at a single location in a 125 acre field of sprinkler irrigated cropland. Producer 

periodically monitors soil moisture sensors during the growing season. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant 

Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 449- Irrigation Water Management, 

587-Structure for water Control, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, 590-Nutrient Management, 442-Irrigation System, Sprinkler, and Irrigation System, Microirrigation 441.

Before Situation:

Producer uses feel method to estimate soil moisture for scheduling irrigation in the field. 

After Situation:

Producer has installed at least three sensors at each monitoring site to a depth of three feet with one sensor representing each foot of depth. Producer periodically 

downloads continuously recorded soil moisture measurements that are used to schedule irrigation more effectively resulting in improved irrigation water management 

and reduced energy use. 

Feature Measure: Acres under irrigation

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 125.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,057.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #4 - IWM, Advanced Technique

Scenario Description:

A high intensity irrigation water management system for producers using a checkbook method with advanced methods of determining irrigation water applied, and 

estimating crop evapotranspiration, monitoring field soil moisture, or monitoring crop temperature stress. Typical methods include flow measurement, daily record 

keeping, and use of real-time evapotranspiration estimates (such as those provided dedicated weather stations) and/or soil moisture sensors with automated data logging 

to monitor field soil moisture content and/or crop temperature. For this scenario, soil moisture is determined by automated soil moisture monitoring stations equipped 

with telemetry data. Irrigation amounts are recorded from a flow meter near the pump. Telemetry data is automatically sent to a computer with irrigation software. 

Irrigator also receives real time data via mobile phone applications. Some data such as total water applied may be entered into computer software manually. Resource 

Concerns: Insufficient Water Supply-Inefficient use of irrigation water; Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy UseEquipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 449- Irrigation Water Management, 587-Structure for water Control, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, 590-Nutrient 

Management, 442-Irrigation System, Sprinkler, and Irrigation System, Microirrigation 441.

Before Situation:

The farmer decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success. 

The typical irrigated field is a 125 acre corn field with sprinkler irrigation.

After Situation:

Irrigations are scheduled based on measured crop water requirements. Records are used to evaluate results of past irrigation events and influence future irrigations. The 

irrigator keeps records of soil moisture, crop water use, rainfall amounts and irrigation timing and amounts. At the end of the irrigation season all the data has been 

reviewed and evaluated. Improvements planned for the next season have been determined. 

Feature Measure: Irrigation system 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,183.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,183.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 48 $2,419.20
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #25 - Small Scale Irrigation

Scenario Description:

A low intensity irrigation water management system for small scale producers (typical size less than 5 acres) using a checkbook method (crop grown, soil moisture 

conditions prior to irrigation, dates of irrigation start and stop, depths of irrigation applied, duration of irrigations, and amount of rainfall). For a typical scenario, soil 

moisture is determined by soil moisture sensors (such as soil moisture meters or tensiometers), volumes of irrigation water are based on flow measureing device, energy 

or water bills, records are kept on computer program or paper copies, and calculations for paper copies are made by 

hand. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water SupplyInefficient use of irrigation water; Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use-Equipment and facilities. Associated 

Practices: 441-Irrigation System Microirrigation, 442-Irrigation System Sprinkler, 443-Irrigation System Surface and Subsurface, 433-Irrigation Water Measurement, 587 

Structure for Water Control.

Before Situation:

The irrigator decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success.

After Situation:

Irrigations are scheduled based on measured crop water use and measured soil moisture. Records are used to evaluate results of past irrigation events and influence 

future irrigations. The irrigator keeps records of soil moisture, crop water use, rainfall amounts and irrigation timing and amounts. At the end of the irrigation season all 

the data has been reviewed and evaluated. Improvements planned for the next season have been determined.

Feature Measure: Each irrigation system managed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $899.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $899.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Soil Moisture Meter 1455 Soil Moisture Sensor Reader. Equipment only. Each $245.42 1 $245.42

Soil Moisture Sensor 1456 Soil moisture resistance sensor with 10 foot cables. Equipment only. Each $75.17 2 $150.34
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #27 - IWM, Advanced Technique Incorporating Precision Irrigation

Scenario Description:

A high intensity irrigation water management system for producers using a prescription method with advanced methods of determining irrigation water applied, and 

estimating crop evapotranspiration, monitoring field soil moisture, or monitoring crop temperature stress. Typical methods include flow measurement, daily record 

keeping, and use of real-time evapotranspiration estimates (such as those provided by dedicated weather stations) and/or soil moisture sensors with automated data 

logging to monitor field soil moisture content and/or crop temperature. For this scenario, soil moisture is determined by automated soil moisture monitoring stations 

equipped with telemetry data. Irrigation amounts are recorded from a flow meter near the pump. Telemetry data is automatically sent to a computer with irrigation 

software. Irrigator also receives real time data via mobile phone applications. Some data such as total water applied may be entered into computer software 

manually. Incorporate Precision Irrigation technology that is currently a part of the irrigation system, into the Irrigation Water Management Plan. Variable Rate 

Irrigation (VRI) speed control technology that is integral to an electronic control panel with GPS for field location is an example of Precision Irrigation. An irrigation 

prescription must be developed and uploaded into the irrigation control system. Irrigation application rates and ranges are then varied based on management zones or 

sectors within the field defined by soil mapping, previous year(s) yield maps, soil properties, field topography and features, or similar criteria. Updated prescriptions will 

be included as data changes during the season, where applicable.

Before Situation:

The farmer decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success. 

The typical irrigated field is a 125 acre corn field with sprinkler irrigation.

After Situation:

Irrigations are scheduled and application rates varied based on measured crop water requirements and criteria used to develop the irrigation prescription. The irrigator 

keeps records of prescriptions, soil moisture, crop water use, rainfall amounts, and irrigation timing and amounts. Records are used to evaluate results of past irrigation 

events and influence future irrigation prescriptions. At the end of the irrigation season all data and prescriptions will be reviewed and evaluated. Improvements will be 

planned and implemented for the next season.

Feature Measure: Irrigation System

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,124.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,124.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 48 $2,419.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 18 $1,941.12
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #33 - Consulatant Based IWM No Equipment

Scenario Description:

An irrigation water management system that consists of a consultant providing irrigation scheduling information to a producer. For the typical scenario, the consultant 

uses local evapotranspiration data and appropriate crop coefficients to develop irrigation recommendations. The consultant provides these recommendations to the 

farmer on a regular basis and includes the timing and amount of irrigation water to be applied to the crop during the season. In this scenario, no equipment is installed in 

the field and the evapotranspiration data is obtained from local sources. In addition to the in-season IWM recommendations, the consultant discusses the irrigation water 

management plan with the producer before the start of the growing season. At the end of the season, the consultant meets with the producer to discuss the 

results. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water Supply-Inefficient use of irrigation water; Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and 

Inefficient Energy Use-Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, 442-Sprinkler System, 443-Irrigation System, Surface and 

Subsurface.

Before Situation:

The farmer decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success. 

The typical irrigated field is a 125 acre corn field with a sprinkler irrigation system.

After Situation:

A season long set of irrigation recommendations is provided to the irrigator by the consultant that includes irrigation event timing and amount. The recommendations are 

developed by the consultant and are based on tracking evapotranspiration from the irrigated field. Irrigator understands the irrigation water management plan 

developed by the consultant, follows the recommendations concerning the timing and amount of each irrigation event, and discusses the results and areas for 

improvement at the end of the season with the consultant.

Feature Measure: Irrigation System

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $806.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $806.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #34 - Consultant Based IWM Equipment Installed

Scenario Description:

An irrigation water management system that consists of a consultant providing irrigation scheduling information to a producer. For the typical scenario, the consultant 

installs IWM equipment in the field and provides recommendations to the farmer on a regular basis that includes the timing and amount of irrigation water to be applied 

to the crop during the season. The equipment that the consultant installs in the field is consistent with the methods of irrigation water management described in the IWM 

practice standard (i.e. evapotranspiration based, soil moisture based, or plant stress based.) Data from the equipment is delivered to the consultant via telemetry. In 

addition to the in-season IWM recommendations, the consultant discusses the irrigation water management plan with the producer before the start of the growing 

season. At the end of the season, the consultant meets with the producer to discuss the results. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water Supply-Inefficient use of irrigation 

water; Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use-Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 441-Irrigation 

System, Microirrigation, 442-Sprinkler System, 443-Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface.

Before Situation:

The farmer decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success. 

The typical irrigated field is a 125 acre corn field with a sprinkler irrigation system.

After Situation:

A season long set of irrigation recommendations is provided to the irrigator by the consultant that includes irrigation event timing and amount. The recommendations are 

developed by the consultant and are based on accurate measurement and interpretation of the data provided by the installed IWM equipment. Irrigator understands 

the irrigation water management plan developed by the consultant, follows the recommendations concerning the timing and amount of each irrigation event, and 

discusses the results and areas for improvement at the end of the season with the consultant.

Feature Measure: Irrigation System

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,760.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,760.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 24 $766.08

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 32 $1,612.80
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #87 - Soil Moist Sensors_1stYr

Scenario Description:

This practice includes the installation of soil moisture sensors such as tensiometers, gyp blocks, capacitance sensors etc, that are installed and read to determine point in 

time soil moisture by depth; and the labor of using the equipment for the first year. The installation includes the purchase of soil moisture meters and sensors, installation 

equipment, and labor to install and utilize sensors and readings in making IWM decisions during first year. Typical Scenario involves installation of resistance sensor blocks 

in a 80 acre field of irrigated cropland. Producer periodically monitors soil moisture sensors during the growing season. Meters used to read sensors may be 

portable. This scenario only applies to year one IWM. The appropriate labor only IWM scenario applies in subsequent contract years. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and 

facilities. Associated Practices: 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442-Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 443-Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface.

Before Situation:

Producer uses feel method to estimate soil moisture for scheduling irrigation. 

After Situation:

Producer has installed four sensors at each monitoring site to a depth of four feet with one sensor representing each foot of depth. Producer uses periodic soil moisture 

measurements to schedule irrigation resulting in improved irrigation water managment and reduced energy use.

Feature Measure: Number of Measuring Sites 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,516.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,758.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Soil Moisture Meter 1455 Soil Moisture Sensor Reader. Equipment only. Each $245.42 1 $245.42

Soil Moisture Sensor 1456 Soil moisture resistance sensor with 10 foot cables. Equipment only. Each $75.17 8 $601.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #88 - IWM w weather station

Scenario Description:

This practice includes the installation of a weather station that is monitored to determine crop water use, status of heat and/or frost conditions to permit the producer to 

make informed irrigation decisions. The installation includes the purchase and installation of equipment, and a data logger to log continuous weather data including 

rainfall, temp, solar radiation, humidity, wind speed and soil moisture sensors that can be downloaded to a personal computer and associated graphing software. Typical 

Scenario involves installation on a 120 acre field of irrigated cropland. Producer periodically monitors the station during the growing season to determine timing and 

amounts of water to apply based on soil moisture sensors, field checks and weather station data. Producer keeps records of collected data and resulting irrigation 

decisions. This scenario only applies to year one of IWM. The appropriate labor-only IWM scenario applies in subsequent contract years. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

Water Supply-Inefficient use of irrigation water; Water Quality; Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use-Equipment 

and facilities. Associated Practices: 441-Irrigation System Microirrigation, 442-Irrigation System Sprinkler, 443-Irrigation System Surface and Subsurface

Before Situation:

To meet crop water requirements, the producer schedules irrigations based on the calendar and what has apparently worked in the past. For cooling/frost protection, 

irrigation start and run times are based on broad regional weather forecasts.

After Situation:

Producer has installed a weather station and periodically downloads continuously recorded data that is used to schedule irrigation more effectively resulting in improved 

irrigation water management and reduced energy use. Field checks are made by irrigator to ground truth station data with crop.

Feature Measure: Number of weather stations

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,631.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,631.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 1 $646.73

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Soil Moisture Meter 1455 Soil Moisture Sensor Reader. Equipment only. Each $245.42 1 $245.42

Soil Moisture Sensor 1456 Soil moisture resistance sensor with 10 foot cables. Equipment only. Each $75.17 2 $150.34

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Scenario: #137 - Basic IWM < 1 acre

Scenario Description:

A low Intensity irrigation water management system for producers using a checkbook method (crop grown, soil moisture conditions prior to irrigation, dates of irrigation 

start and stop, depths of irrigation applied, duration of irrigations, and amount of rainfall). The irrigation water management system is typically located on a small-scale 

agricultural operation cultivated by an individual or a group of people (e.g., repurposed land, private or community-gardens). Multiple crops are grown in the same space 

or within the growing season on less than 1 acre. For a typical scenario, soil moisture is determined by the feel method, volumes of irrigation water are based on energy or 

water district bills, records are kept on paper copies, and calculations are made by hand. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water Supply-Inefficient use of irrigation water; 

Degraded Plant Condition-Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use-Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices: 441-Irrigation System 

Microirrigation, 442-Irrigation System Sprinkler, 443-Irrigation System Surface and Subsurface.

Before Situation:

A sub-acre mixed or intercropped area is irrigated with a sprinkler or microirrigation system. The irrigator decides when to irrigate based on general crop or soil 

appearance or limited soil moisture monitoring. System run times are based on past apparent success.

After Situation:

Irrigations are scheduled based on measured crop water requirements. Records are used to evaluate results of past irrigation events and influence future irrigations. The 

irrigator keeps records of soil moisture, crop water use, rainfall amounts and irrigation timing and amounts. At the end of the irrigation season all the data has been 

reviewed and evaluated. Improvements planned for the next season have been determined.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,209.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,209.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60
Practice: 450 - Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) Application

Scenario: #8 - PAM Application

Scenario Description:

Control of irrigation induced erosion (typically in furrow irrigated fields) through the direct application of water-soluble Polyacrylamide (PAM) into the irrigation water 

supply (1 to 3 ounce sprinkled at 3-5 ft furrow inlet or metered at 10 ppm directly into the head ditch). PAM comes in granular, liquid oil emulsion, tablet, and block 

forms. This typical application is for an 80-acre furrow irrigated row crop field, with one PAM application (1-1.5 lb/ac, creating a 10 ppm concentration of the granular 

PAM in the head ditch metered via large fish feeder) at first irrigation followed by two additional applications (reduced rates of 0.5-1 lb/ac, or about 1-5 ppm in the inflow 

water) after cultivations. Resource Concern: Soil erosion. Associated Practices: 443-Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface, 449-Irrigation Water Management.

Before Situation:

Irrigated lands susceptible to irrigation-induced erosion, excluding peat soils, and where the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) of irrigation water is less than 15. 

After Situation:

Erosion is minimized in furrow irrigated field. 

Feature Measure: Weight of PAM Applied

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 240.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,080.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Materials

Anionic Polyacrylamide (PAM) 1279 Water Soluble PAM, granular bulk, for mixing with irrigation water. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Pound $3.31 240 $794.40
Practice: 460 - Land Clearing

Scenario: #49 - Non-Heavy Equipment

Scenario Description:

Site preparation of a field with a labor crew, chainsaws, chippers or similar equipment removing trees and shrubs to achieve a conservation objective. Typical scenario is 

approximately 1 acre of trees and shrubs to be cleared. The resource concern is determined by the conservation objective met with the final practice applied to the field.

Before Situation:

Forested field of approximately 1 acre, with moderate density evenly spaced tree canopy.

After Situation:

Labor crew uses chainsaws, chippers, or similar equipment to clear trees and prepare the field for a conservation objective, includes on-site disposal as necessary. 

Associated practices, like plantings, other structures, or irrigation/drainage water management practices, would be contracted separately as needed.

Feature Measure: Area Cleared

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $909.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $909.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 24 $152.64

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 460 - Land Clearing

Scenario: #50 - Heavy Equipment

Scenario Description:

Site preparation of a field with dozer or equivalent heavy equipment to acheive a conservation objective. Typical scenario is approximately 10 acres of trees and shrubs to 

be cleared. The resource concern is determined by the conservation objective met with the final practice applied to the field.

Before Situation:

Forested field of approximately 10 acres, with moderate density evenly spaced tree canopy.

After Situation:

Crew uses 200 HP dozer to clear trees and prepare field for conservation objective, includes on-site debris disposal as necessary. Associated practices, like plantings, other 

structures, or irrigation/drainage water management practices, would be contracted separately as needed.

Feature Measure: Area Cleared

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,735.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,073.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 40 $7,384.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 40 $1,464.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #3 - Land Forming

Scenario Description:

Large areas of the land surface are shaped or leveled to a specific elevation and grade for various land uses. Cuts and fills are small. The resource concerns are EXCESS / 

INSUFFICIENT WATER -( Ponding, Flooding) and SOIL EROSION -(Sheet, Rill)

Before Situation:

The site, commonly a crop field or AFO, has localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion problems. 

After Situation:

Land has been shaped to the required elevations and grades. Typical situation require re-grading an area approximately 10 acres in size requring an average depth of 

earthfill or excavation of 0.4 feet. Construction would be completed with a scraper and grader (dozer) that is able to average 100 cy of earth moved per hour. Resource 

concerns have been treated. Associated practices, like plantings or drainage water management practices, would be contracted seperately as needed.

Feature Measure: Acres of Field re-graded.

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,506.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,150.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 25 $1,976.00

Tractor, agricultural, 160 HP 1203 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 140 to 190. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.94 40 $4,077.60

Scraper, pull, 7 CY 1206 Pull type earthmoving scraper with 7 CY capacity. Does not include 

pulling equipment or labor. Add Tractor or Dozer, 160 HP typically 

required for single scraper.

Hours $18.95 40 $758.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 65 $2,379.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #28 - Minor Shaping

Scenario Description:

The land surface is shaped or leveled to a specific elevation and grade for various land uses. Cuts and fills are small. The resource concerns are EXCESS / INSUFFICIENT 

WATER -( Ponding, Flooding) and SOIL EROSION -(Sheet, Rill)

Before Situation:

The field has minor topographic issues or problems with surface drainage or erosion which can be corrected without land leveling or land smoothing. Site conditions 

require attention to elevation and grade. Typical situation is a 5 acre field. Material to be moved and or placed typically around 100 cubic yards per acre.

After Situation:

Land has been shaped to the required elevations and grades. Resource concerns have been treated. Associated practices, like plantings or drainage water management 

practices, would be contracted seperately as needed.

Feature Measure: Acres of land treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,787.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $757.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 6 $607.26

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 6 $344.52

Scraper, pull, 7 CY 1206 Pull type earthmoving scraper with 7 CY capacity. Does not include 

pulling equipment or labor. Add Tractor or Dozer, 160 HP typically 

required for single scraper.

Hours $18.95 6 $113.70

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #29 - Site Stabilization

Scenario Description:

The site contains a gully or other site specific topographic problem. Site conditions require attention to elevation and grade. Resource concerns are EXCESS / 

INSUFFICIENT WATER -( Ponding, Flooding) and SOIL EROSION -(Sheet, Rill)

Before Situation:

The site, commonly a crop field or CAFO, has localized gully or topographic issues causing drainage or erosion problems. Typical situation is a gully 10 feet wide and 5 feet 

deep. 

After Situation:

Land has been shaped to the required elevations and grades. Resource concerns have been treated. Associated practices, like plantings or drainage water management 

practices, would be contracted seperately as needed.

Feature Measure: Cubic yards of material placed

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 6,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,351.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 6000 $14,580.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #33 - Terrace Removal

Scenario Description:

Remove and dispose of an existing terrace system by placing earthfill, excavation, grading, leveling or other means required for removal. Dispose of terrace ridge earthfill 

material by placing it into the adjacent terrace channel, so that the disturbed area slope matches the adjacent field slope, and it does not impede subsequent work or 

cause onsite or offsite damage. Removing an existing terrace system will address the resource concerns of localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion 

problems.

Before Situation:

On any land where an existing terrace system interfere with planned land use development or infrastructure. The site, commonly a crop field that is being developed into a 

pasture/range field, has localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion problems.

After Situation:

The typical length will be a 12,460 linear feet of terraces. The removal of an existing terrace system will be performed by placing earthfill, excavation, grading, leveling or 

other means required for removal with the use of heavy equipment. Dispose of terrace ridge earthfill material by placing it into the adjacent terrace channel, so that the 

disturbed area slope matches the adjacent field slope, and it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect the 

disturbed areas from erosion as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, 

and mulching requirements. The practice will improve localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion problems. It will also improve site conditions in order to 

apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Length of removed terraces

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 12,460.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,779.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 40 $7,384.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 40 $1,464.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #34 - Minor Shaping - Field Scale

Scenario Description:

Removing irregularities on the land surface of cropland by use of heavy equipment.

Before Situation:

Field damaged by flooding, past agricultural practices, or other topographic issues causing drainage or field workability issues. Typically less than 100 cy/acre material 

moved.

After Situation:

Land level, backhoe, bulldozer or other heavy equipment used to correct irregularities and address drainage or workability issues.

Feature Measure: Acres of land treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,919.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $97.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 25 $2,530.25

Scraper, pull, 7 CY 1206 Pull type earthmoving scraper with 7 CY capacity. Does not include 

pulling equipment or labor. Add Tractor or Dozer, 160 HP typically 

required for single scraper.

Hours $18.95 25 $473.75

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 25 $915.00
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #35 - Heavy Shaping

Scenario Description:

Removing irregularities on the land surface of cropland or pastureland by use of heavy equipment.

Before Situation:

Field damaged by erosion, past agricultural practices, or other topographic issues causing drainage or field workability issues.

After Situation:

Bulldozer or other heavy equipment used to correct irregularities and address drainage or workability issues.

Feature Measure: Acres of land treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,117.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,558.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 8 $809.68

Scraper, pull, 7 CY 1206 Pull type earthmoving scraper with 7 CY capacity. Does not include 

pulling equipment or labor. Add Tractor or Dozer, 160 HP typically 

required for single scraper.

Hours $18.95 8 $151.60

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 462 - Precision Land Forming and Smoothing

Scenario: #64 - Terrace Removal

Scenario Description:

Remove and dispose of an existing terrace system by placing earthfill, excavation, grading, leveling or other means required for removal. Dispose of terrace ridge earthfill 

material by placing it into the adjacent terrace channel, so that the disturbed area slope matches the adjacent field slope, and it does not impede subsequent work or 

cause onsite or offsite damage. Removing an existing terrace system will address the resource concerns of localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion 

problems.

Before Situation:

On any land where an existing terrace system interfere with planned land use development or infrastructure. The site, commonly a crop field that is being developed into a 

pasture/range field, has localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion problems.

After Situation:

The typical length will be a 12,460 linear feet of terraces. The removal of an existing terrace system will be performed by placing earthfill, excavation, grading, leveling or 

other means required for removal with the use of heavy equipment. Dispose of terrace ridge earthfill material by placing it into the adjacent terrace channel, so that the 

disturbed area slope matches the adjacent field slope, and it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect the 

disturbed areas from erosion as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, 

and mulching requirements. The practice will improve localized topographic issues causing drainage or erosion problems. It will also improve site conditions in order to 

apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Length of removed terraces

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 12,460.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,779.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 40 $7,384.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 40 $1,464.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 464 - Irrigation Land Leveling

Scenario: #19 - Small Scale Irrigation Land Leveling

Scenario Description:

This is scenario will level a typical 10 acres of irrigated crop land surface to enhance uniform flow of surface water to improve irrigation efficiency using dirtpans/carryall/pan-scraper equipment. The typical volume of earth moved is 100 to 500 cubic yards per acre. Resource Concern: Excess/Insufficient - Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water 

Associated Conservation Practices: 433 - Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface; 607 - Surface Drain, Field Ditch; 388 - Irrigation Field Ditch; 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management; or 587 - Structure for Water Control.

Before Situation:

Irregular field surface reduces uniformity of surface application and thus irrigation efficiency by localized ponding and/or excess runoff/run-on.

After Situation:

Cropland will be reshaped to provide uniform distribution of irrigation water in order to promote irrigation efficiencies.

Feature Measure: Acres of Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,583.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,158.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 4000 $9,720.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 464 - Irrigation Land Leveling

Scenario: #33 - Irrigation Land Leveling

Scenario Description:

This is scenario will level a typical 80 acres of irrigated crop land surface to enhance uniform flow of surface water to improve irrigation efficiency using dirtpans/carryall/pan-scraper equipment. The typical volume of earth moved is 100 to 500 cubic yards per acre. Resource Concern: Excess/Insufficient - Inefficient Use of Irrigation 

Water Associated Conservation Practices: 433 - Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface; 607 - Surface Drain, Field Ditch; 388 - Irrigation Field Ditch; 449 - Irrigation 

Water Management; or 587 - Structure for Water Control. 

Before Situation:

Irregular field surface reduces uniformity of surface application and thus irrigation efficiency by localized ponding and/or excess runoff/runon.

After Situation:

Cropland will be reshaped to provide uniform distribution of irrigation water in order to promote irrigation efficiencies.

Feature Measure: Volume of Earth Moved

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 28,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $68,653.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 28000 $68,040.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #1 - Turf Reinforced Matting, Moderate Stress

Scenario Description:

Install approximately 46' long trapezoidal (or similar parabolic shape) waterway, with 20' wide bottom, 1.1' depth, and 4:1 side slopes, lined with Turf Reinforced Matting 

(TRM). The profile includes a 4' long level approach apron, a 32' long section at 12.5% grade (4' drop), and a 10' long level exit apron depressed 1' below outlet channel 

grade. Ideally, all TRM is placed on an excavated surface, typically immediately upstream of a headcut. Excess excavation is spread in the immediate area. TRM is 

installed on the bottom and side slopes of the waterway to prevent scour and aid in waterway establishment. Costs include excavation to channel grade, earthfill in 

transverse approach berm and side berms, earthwork to blend aprons to existing ground, spreading of excess material, and furnishing and installing TRM. TRM is installed 

by laborers. Required TRM has a moderate allowable stress of less than 12 pounds per square foot in the fully vegetated condtion. Unit cost for TRM is assumed to 

include a surcharge for anhorage and overlap, typically 1' at upstream end, 0.5' at downstream end, side terminations, and 0.5' overlaps; such associated additional 

quantities are generally not part of the measured quantity for payment.

Before Situation:

Excessive soil erosion and sedimentation are a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway without a lining material. 

After Situation:

The TRM lined waterway provides a surface capable of withstanding moderate flow velocity and stress to maintain a stable channel configuration. The measured quantity 

for payment excludes amounts necessary for terminal anchorage and overlap. Associated practices are Grassed Waterway (412), Subsurface Drain (606), Underground 

Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,340.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,128.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 118 $286.74

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 60 $232.20

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 60 $199.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Turf reinforcement mat 1212 Synthetic turf reinforcement mat with staple anchoring. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Square Yard $9.82 149 $1,463.18

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #2 - Turf Reinforced Matting, High Stress

Scenario Description:

Install approximately 54' long trapezoidal (or similar parabolic shape) waterway, with 30' wide bottom, 1.3' depth, and 4:1 side slopes, lined with Turf Reinforced Matting 

(TRM). The profile includes a 4' long level approach apron, a 40' long section at 12.5% grade (5' drop), and a 10' long level exit apron depressed 1' below outlet channel 

grade. Ideally, all TRM is placed on an excavated surface, typically immediately upstream of a headcut. Excess excavation is spread in the immediate area. TRM is 

installed on the bottom and side slopes of the waterway to prevent scour and aid in waterway establishment. Costs include excavation to channel grade, earthfill in 

transverse approach berm and side berms, earthwork to blend aprons to existing ground, spreading of excess material, and furnishing and installing TRM. TRM is installed 

by laborers. Required TRM has a relatively high allowable stress of at least 12 pounds per square foot in the fully vegetated condtion. Unit cost for TRM is assumed to 

include a surcharge for anhorage and overlap, typically 1' at upstream end, 0.5' at downstream end, side terminations, and 0.5' overlaps; such associated additional 

quantities are generally not part of the measured quantity for payment.

Before Situation:

Excessive soil erosion and sedimentation are a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway without a lining material. 

After Situation:

The TRM lined waterway provides a surface capable of withstanding high flow velocity and stress to maintain a stable channel configuration. The measured quantity for 

payment excludes amounts necessary for terminal anchorage and overlap. Associated practices are Grassed Waterway (412), Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet 

(620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,215.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,164.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 234 $568.62

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 90 $348.30

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 146 $486.18

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Mat, Turf Reinforcement, High 2584

Stress

High stress resistant synthetic turf reinforcement mat, High Stress (14 

psf vegetated). Includes shipping.

Square Yard $9.80 246 $2,410.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #3 - Rock Lined, 12 in

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 side slopes trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with 12' thick riprap (D100 = 9', Velocity ~ 8 ft/sec). 1/2 the 

channel is excavated, before excavation for riprap. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Riprap is installed over 100% of the width of the waterway to 

prevent scour. Cost include excavation, spoiling of excess material, geotextile underlayment and installing 9' Rock Riprap. Lined waterway width is measured from top of 

bank to top of bank. (9'+3.35'+3.35') x 300' = 4710 Square Feet

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. 

After Situation:

Rock lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 sideslopes. Waterway is excavated and rock is placed using a hydraulic excavator. Geotextile 

underlayment is installed by laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area 

Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,710.00

Scenario Total Cost: $29,400.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 295 $716.85

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 205 $27,689.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #4 - Rock Lined, 24 in

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 side slopes trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with 24' thick riprap (D100 = 18', Velocity ~ 11 ft/sec). 1/2 

the channel is excavated, before excavation for riprap. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Riprap is installed over 100% of the width of the waterway to 

prevent scour. Cost include excavation, spoiling of excess material, geotextile underlayment and installing 18' Rock Riprap. Lined waterway width is measured from top of 

bank to top of bank. (9'+3.35'+3.35') x 300' = 4710 Square Feet

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. 

After Situation:

Rock lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 sideslopes. Waterway is excavated and rock is placed using a hydraulic excavator. Geotextile 

underlayment is installed by laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area 

Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,710.00

Scenario Total Cost: $65,150.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 555 $1,348.65

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 465 $62,807.55

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #5 - Concrete - NP Reg 1

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 sides slopes trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with concrete. 1/2 the channel is excavated, before 

excavation for concrete and subgrade material. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Concrete is installed over 100% of the width of the waterway to 

prevent scour. Cost include excavation, spoiling of excess material, 6' of clean sand or gravel subgrade, and 5' reinforced concrete slab. Lined waterway width is measured 

from top of bank to top of bank. (9'+3.35'+3.35') x 300' = 4710 Square Feet

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. Usually installed in locations where rock or other lining materials are not readily available.

After Situation:

Concrete lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 side slopes. Waterway is excavated using a hydraulic excavator. Concrete slab is placed on 6' of 

clean sand or #57 stone. Concrete is placed, graded and screeded by laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for 

Water Control (587), and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,710.00

Scenario Total Cost: $46,236.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 80 $42,195.20

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 280 $680.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 110 $2,366.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #6 - Articulated Concrete Block

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide (at top) by 1.5' deep with 2:1 sides slopes trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with artiulated concrete block (ACB). 1/2 the 

channel is excavated, before excavation for ACB and subgrade material. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Articulated concrete block is installed over 

100% of the width of the waterway to prevent scour. Cost include excavation, spoiling of excess material, 3' of clean sand or gravel subgrade, and 6' height articulated 

concrete block. Lined waterway width is measured from top of bank to top of bank. (9'+3.35'+3.35') x 300' = 4710 Square Feet

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. Usually installed in locations where rock or other lining materials are not readily available.

After Situation:

Articulated Concrete Block lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep with 2:1 sideslopes. Waterway is excavated using a hydraulic excavator. Articulated 

concrete block is placed on 3' of clean sand or gravel subgrade and installed with a hydraulic excavator, loader and laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain 

(606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,710.00

Scenario Total Cost: $59,396.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 200 $486.00

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 22.5 $2,298.15

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 22.5 $2,204.55

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 25.5 $813.96

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 51 $1,217.88

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 51 $1,588.14

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 45 $919.80

Articulated precast concrete block 1906 Articulated precast concrete blocks with a typical thickness of 4.5 to 6 

inches. Includes materials and shipping.

Square Feet $10.26 4710 $48,324.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #7 - Splash Pad

Scenario Description:

Install a 10'x10', 1' thick rock riprap pad at outlet into streams. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Costs include 12' and smaller rock riprap installed. It 

does not include the cost of the required vegetation. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar 

practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of concentrated water flow. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to maintain a 

stable outlet.

After Situation:

Runoff water is released through a stable outlet into streams or water courses without erosion or sedimentation. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), 

Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Area of Splash Pad

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,108.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 2 $114.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 3.7 $499.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #47 - Turf Reinforced Matting

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with Turf Reinforced Matting (TRM). 1/2 the channel is excavated. Excess 

excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. TRM is installed over 100% of the width of the waterway to prevent scour and aid in waterway establishment. Cost include 

excavation, spoiling of excess material, and furnishing and installing TRM. Lined waterway width is measured from top of bank to top of bank. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. 

After Situation:

TRM lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep. The practice is installed using a hydraulic excavator. TRM is installed by laborers. Associated practices are 

Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,345.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 90 $218.70

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Turf reinforcement mat 1212 Synthetic turf reinforcement mat with staple anchoring. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Square Yard $9.82 535 $5,253.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #48 - Concrete

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with concrete. 1/2 the channel is excavated, before excavation for concrete and 

subgrade material. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Concrete is installed over 100% of the width of the waterway to prevent scour. Cost include 

excavation, spoiling of excess material, 6' of clean sand or gravel subgrade, and 5' reinforced concrete slab. Lined waterway width is measured from top of bank to top of 

bank. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. Usually installed in locations where rock or other lining materials are not readily available.

After Situation:

Concrete lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep. Waterway is excavated using a hydraulic excavator. Concrete slab is placed on 6' of clean sand or #57 

stone. Concrete is placed, graded and screeded by laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), 

and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $46,162.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 80 $42,195.20

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 280 $680.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 110 $2,366.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #49 - Concrete Block

Scenario Description:

Install 36' long (including inlet and outlet aprons) by 15' wide by 1.5' deep trapezoidal shaped waterway or chute lined with concrete blocks. 1/2 the channel is excavated. 

Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. 8'x8'x16' standard concrete blocks are installed over 100% of the width of the waterway/chute to prevent scour. Cost 

include excavation, spoiling of excess material, 3' stone subgrade, geotextile and furnishing and installing standard concrete blocks. Lined waterway width is measured 

from top of bank to top of bank. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. Usually installed in locations where rock or other lining materials are not readily available.

After Situation:

Conccrete block lined waterway or chute is 36 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep. Chute is installed on a 3 to 1 slope. The practice is installed using a hydraulic excavator. 

Geotextile and concrete blocks are installed by laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), 

and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 540.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,803.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 65 $70.85

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 32 $77.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 6 $129.06

Block, concrete 253 Concrete block, hollow, normal weight, 3500 psi. Includes both full and 

partial sizes. Material only

Each $3.25 640 $2,080.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 468 - Lined Waterway or Outlet

Scenario: #57 - Rock Lined, 12 inch

Scenario Description:

Install 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep trapezoidal or parabolic shaped waterway lined with riprap (D100 = 9', Velocity ~ 8 ft/sec). 1/2 the channel is excavated, before 

excavation for riprap. Excess excavation is spoiled in the immediate area. Riprap is installed over 100% of the width of the waterway to prevent scour. Cost include 

excavation, spoiling of excess material, geotextile underlayment and installing 9' Rock Riprap. Lined waterway width is measured from top of bank to top of bank. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of ephemeral or classic gully erosion. Velocities are generally too high or saturated soil conditions make it difficult to 

establish a grassed waterway. 

After Situation:

Rock lined waterway is 300 ' long by 15' wide by 1.5' deep. Waterway is excavated and rock is placed using a hydraulic excavator. Geotextile underlayment is installed by 

laborers. Associated practices are Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Structure for Water Control (587), and Critical Area Seeding (342).

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Waterway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $29,326.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 295 $716.85

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 205 $27,689.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 472 - Access Control

Scenario: #1 - Animal exclusion from sensitive areas (FI)

Scenario Description:

Exclude animals from an area in order to address identified resource concerns. This is for facilitating exclusion of animals to protect or enhance natural resource values 

and/or to allow for fuel loads to accumulate to address other resource issues. Control will be by permanent or temporary electric fencing. Any need for permanent 

fencing will be planned and installed using the Fence practice (382). Clearing of brush and trees is not necessary. Resource concerns include wildlife habitat degradation, 

undesirable plant productivity and health, and/or excessive sediment in surface waters. 

Before Situation:

Sensitive areas are threatened by the adverse actions of domestic and/or wild animals. The importance of the sensitive areas can include (but are not limited to): wildlife 

habitat, plant species composition, newly established trees and/or plants, stream bank stability, and/or water quality. 

After Situation:

Adequate fuel loads are permitted to accumulate so that other conservation practices may be implemented and/or sensitive areas are protected from adverse actions of 

domestic and/or wild animals by excluding them from the area.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,300.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 38 $1,204.60

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52
Practice: 472 - Access Control

Scenario: #15 - Trails/Roads Access Control

Scenario Description:

Restricting access to the use of forest/farm roads and trails by the use of a gate and limited fencing. Resource concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health, 

Concentrated flow erosion, Soil compaction, Excessive sediment in surface waters, and Wildlife habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Roads are damaged or misused, illegal activities occur and/or forest resources are at risk. Extensive amount of fencing (other than that needed to restrict access at the 

site of ingress) is not included in this scenario, but instead will be planned and installed with the Fence practice (382).

After Situation:

Roads are protected, illegal activities are stopped and/or forest resources are secure.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $783.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $783.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 2 $19.96

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 4 $43.20

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 4 $95.92

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 1 $228.17

Concrete mix, bag 1226 Pre-mixed dry concrete mix in 60 pound bag. Materials only. Each $5.20 10 $52.00
Practice: 472 - Access Control

Scenario: #16 - Animal exclusion from sensitive areas

Scenario Description:

Excluding animals from an area in order to address identified resource concerns. This is for facilitating exclusion of animals to protect or enhance natural resource values. 

Control will be by temporary electric fencing. Any need for permanent fencing will be planned and installed using the Fence practice (382). Clearing of brush and trees is 

not necessary. Resource concerns include Wildlife Habitat degradation, Undesirable plant productivity and health, and/or Excessive sediment in surface waters. 

Before Situation:

Sensitive areas are threatened by the adverse actions of domestic and/or wild animals. The importance of the sensitive areas can include (but are not limited to): wildlife 

habitat, plant species composition, newly established trees and/or plants, stream bank stability, and/or water quality. 

After Situation:

Sensitive areas are protected from the adverse actions of domestic and/or wild animals by excluding them from the area.

Feature Measure: Length of fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $630.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 4 in x 8 10

ft

Wood Post, Line 4 inch X 8 foot, CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.22 4 $52.88

Property/Safety Signs 293 Plastic fence safety or property sign, printed on both sides with 6 predrilled holes for hanging or nailing. 7.5 x 4.75 inch. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.09 35 $73.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 472 - Access Control

Scenario: #17 - Forest/Farm Access Control

Scenario Description:

Restricting human access to a field/farm/property through use of signage and other markings. Resource concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health, 

Excessive sediment in surface waters, Concentrated flow erosion, and Wildlife habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

A 20 acre tract (field, farm. forests, etc.) is being damaged or misused by illegal activities that put the resources/property at risk or needs controlled access due to an active 

management operation such as pest management or timber harvesting. The perimeter needs marking with paint (at 100 foot intervals) and signs at points of ingress. 

Surveying is not necessary. 

After Situation:

The property is adequately marked and protected, illegal activities are stopped and/or forest resources are secure.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $523.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Property/Safety Signs 293 Plastic fence safety or property sign, printed on both sides with 6 predrilled holes for hanging or nailing. 7.5 x 4.75 inch. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.09 2 $4.18

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #1 - Natural Material - Straw

Scenario Description:

Application of straw mulch or other other state approved natural material to reduce erosion and facilitate the establishment of vegetative cover. Mulch provides full 

coverage and is typically used with critical area planting. 2 tons per acre of straw applied and anchored with light tillage equipment, treader, knifed in, etc.

Before Situation:

Typical scenario is applying mulch on 1 acres of a disturbed site around a newly constructed structural practice. The potential for soil erosion is high and mulch is needed 

to stabilize the soil and facilitate the establishment of vegetative cover.

After Situation:

Straw mulch has been applied to areas needing mulch. Erosion and sedimentation is reduced, water and soil quality is protected, and vegetative cover is established. 

Feature Measure: Area Covered by Mulch

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $530.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $530.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 2 $274.00
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #2 - Erosion Control Blanket

Scenario Description:

Installation of erosion control blanket on critical areas with steep slopes, grassed waterways or diversions. Blanket is typically made of coconut coir, wood fiber, or straw, 

and is typically covered on both sides with polypropylene netting. Used to help control erosion and establish vegetative cover. 

Before Situation:

There are areas of concentrated flow and a grassed waterway is being installed and seeded to permanent cover. Soil erosion is a concern and there is little to no 

vegetation.

After Situation:

The erosion control blanket is placed on concentrated flow areas and secured with ground staples. Soil erosion is minimized and vegetative cover is established.

Feature Measure: Total Area Mulched

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,282.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 556 $900.72
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #3 - Tree and Shrub - Squares

Scenario Description:

Barrier fabric or other suitable natural or synthetic mulch is installed with a new tree and shrub planting. Typically used to retain moisture during the installation of 

conservation practices. Rate is per tree/shrub and assumes 1 square yard of barrier fabric and 5 staples/tree.

Before Situation:

Site conditions vary and erosion and wildlife habitat have been identified as concerns. Fabric squares (as mulch) are added to address soil moisture and temperature 

issues. Sites are often remote and trees may not be planted in rows, requiring each tree to be mulched individually.

After Situation:

Barrier fabric squares are installed with 5 sod staples each, around individual trees and shrubs to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. 

Feature Measure: Number of Trees Mulched

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $109.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 100 $109.00
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #4 - Tree and Shrub - Rolls

Scenario Description:

Barrier fabric or other suitable natural or synthetic mulch is installed with a new tree and shrub planting. Typically used to retain soil moisture, control soil temperature, 

and minimize erosion by providing cover during the installation of conservation practices. Two 300 foot tree rows will use barrier fabric to conserve moisture. Rate is per 

linear foot (300' roll x 2= 600') and 3 staples/pins per tree.

Before Situation:

Site conditions vary, and erosion and wildlife habitat have been identified as concerns. Barrier fabric (as mulch) is added to address soil moisture loss. Sites are typically 

on field edges, each tree row to be mulched individually.

After Situation:

Barrier fabric rolls are installed with 3 metal pins/staples per tree. Moisture is retained, temperature controlled, and erosion is minimized.

Feature Measure: Number of Trees Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $454.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Mulch, polyethylene plastic, 1.0 1303

mil

1.0 mil polyethylene plastic mulch, with anchoring. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Square Yard $0.38 400 $152.00
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #5 - Hydro-mulching

Scenario Description:

Installation of mulch through hydraulic methods on critical areas with steep slopes, grassed waterways or diversions. The mulch is comprised of wood cellulose fiber pulp 

and may include seed, fertilizer, and other approved materials. Mulch is typically applied at a rate of 1500 pounds per acre as a slurry by using hydroseeding methods. 

Used to help control erosion and establish vegetative cover.

Before Situation:

Areas being seeded to permanent cover. Soil erosion is a concern and there is little to no vegetation.

After Situation:

The hydro-mulch is applied to appropriate areas as needed for vegetation establishment. Soil erosion is minimized and vegetative cover is established.

Feature Measure: Area Covered by Mulch

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,127.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,127.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, hydroseeder 1291 Hydroseeding with typical 1500 to 3600 gallon seeder. Includes all costs 

for equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $1,127.46 1 $1,127.46
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #6 - Natural Materials - Large Area

Scenario Description:

Application of straw mulch or other other state approved natural material to reduce erosion and facilitate the establishment of vegetative cover on large areas including 

salt affected soils. Mulch provides full coverage and is typically used with critical area planting. 2 tons per acre of straw applied through mechanical methods.

Before Situation:

Typical scenario is applying mulch on large areas including salt affected soils after permanent cover planting. The potential for soil erosion is high and mulch is needed to 

stabilize the soil, reduce evaporative losses, and facilitate the establishment of vegetative cover.

After Situation:

Straw mulch has been applied to areas needing mulch. Erosion and sedimentation is reduced, evaporation losses are minimized, water and soil quality is protected, and 

vegetative cover is established. 

Feature Measure: Area Covered by Mulch

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,141.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $457.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 22 $806.96

Mulcher, straw blower 1305 Straw bale mulcher/blower to mechanically spread small or large straw 

bales. Labor not included.

Hours $84.61 20 $1,692.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 22 $685.08

Materials

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 40 $5,480.00
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #57 - Synthetic Material

Scenario Description:

Installation of geotextile, biodegradable plastic, polyethylene plastic, or other state approved synthetic mulch to conserve soil moisture, moderate soil temperature, 

suppress weed growth and provide erosion control. Payment based on actual area covered by mulching material.

Before Situation:

Site conditions vary. Typically scenarios include new tree and shrub plantings, irrigated orchards or vineyards, or annual and perennial specialty crops. Water quantity and 

soil moisture is a concern.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are preprared according to the 484 Mulching Standard and implemented. Synthetic mulch is applied in rows with a mulch layer or by other 

mechanized means. Soil moisture is conserved, energy use associated with irrigation is decreased, and weed growth is suppressed.

Feature Measure: Area Covered by Mulch

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,637.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,637.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 2420 $2,637.80
Practice: 484 - Mulching

Scenario: #58 - Natural Material - Full Coverage

Scenario Description:

Application of straw mulch or other other state approved natural material to reduce erosion and facilitate the establishment of vegetative cover. Mulch provides full 

coverage and is typically used with critical area planting. Assumes 2 tons of straw mulch per acre

Before Situation:

Typical scenario ranges from a 0.1 to 1.0 acre disturbed site around a newly constructed structural practice. The potential for soil erosion is high and mulch is needed to 

stabilize the soil and facilitate the establishment of vegetative cover.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are preprared according to the 484 Mulching Standard and implemented. Straw mulch has been applied to areas needing mulch. Erosion 

and sedimentation is reduced, water and soil quality is protected, and vegetative cover is established.

Feature Measure: Area Covered by Mulch

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $525.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $525.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 0.5 $12.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 2 $274.00
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #1 - Mechanical, Heavy

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of heavy machinery and chemical to treat an area in order to improve site conditions for establishing trees and/or shrubs. Typical sites 

include trees and brush cover that is not appropriate to the site or providing the desired condition for the landowner. Chemical application is needed to treat resprouting 

and smaller trees. This practice is typically used to address the following resource concerns: degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health and 

inadequate structure and composition and soil quality degredation - soil erosion - sheet and rill.

Before Situation:

The site is dominated by undesirable vegetation including herbaceous plants and significant amounts of woody vegetation (trees and brush) occupying the site. There is 

also a significant component of woody debris onsite. Noxious and invasive species may also be present on the site. Soils are compacted as a result of past heavy 

equipment activities or from other land uses. Sheet and rill erosion is ocurring in areas where the soil was severely disturbed expsoing bare soil. If left untreated, soil 

compaction and erosion issues will result in poor survival or reduced growth of trees/shrubs to be established on the site. 

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been removed using mechanical and chemical methods reducing competition for target trees and/or shrubs. Woody debris has been removed 

to facilitate tree/shrub planting operations. Soil compaction has been alleviated, allowing moisture penetration and proper root growth. Site conditions are favorable for 

successful establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size is 6 acres. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,840.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $306.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 6 $40.74

Heavy mechanical site prep, raking 1317 Mechanical operations that pushing and raking trees and vegetation. 

Requires heavy equipment such as dozers. Includes equipment, power 

unit and labor costs.

Acres $164.23 6 $985.38

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 9 $453.60

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 6 $204.96

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 6 $9.66
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #2 - Mechanical, Medium

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of light/moderate machinery and chemical application to clear above ground vegetation and to also rip/cut/lift underground root systems in 

order to improve site conditions for establishing trees and/or shrubs. Chemical application is needed to treat resprouting and smaller trees. Typical sites include 

abandoned fields, pastures, rangelands, or forestlands that have been harvested. This following resource concerns: soil quality degredation - compaction, soil erosion - 

sheet and rill, and degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

Undesirable vegetation is present on the site including herbaceous plants and sparse woody competition. Noxious and invasive species may also be present on the site. If 

left uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees and/or shrubs. Soils are compacted as a result of harvesting heavy 

equipment activities or other land uses. 

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been removed using medium equipment; material cut, removed and piled. This enhances site conditions for planting and survival of trees 

and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size of the practice is 6 acres. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,494.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $415.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 16 $918.72

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 6 $40.74

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 6 $204.96

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 6 $9.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #3 - Windbreak, mechanical only

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of various mechanical equipment in order to prepare a site for tree row planting and remove undesirable vegetation and improve site 

conditions for establishing trees and/or shrubs. Typical sites include abandoned fields, pastures, rangelands, or forestland that was recently harvested. This practice is 

typically used to address the following resource concerns: degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

Ground needs prepared for establishment of trees and shrubs in rows. Undesirable vegetation is present on the site including herbaceous plants and woody vegetation. 

Noxious and invasive species may also be present on the site. If left uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees 

and/or shrubs.

After Situation:

Ground has been prepare to establish tree and shrub rows. Undesirable vegetation has been treated using appropriate herbicides, reducing competition for target trees 

and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size of the practice is 1.5 acres. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.50

Scenario Total Cost: $181.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $121.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1.5 $21.81

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 3 $66.27

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #4 - Windbreak, chemical and mechanical

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of various mechanical equipment and chemical treatments, order to prepare a site for tree row planting, remove undesirable vegetation, and 

improve site conditions for establishing trees and/or shrubs. Typical sites include abandoned fields, pastures, rangelands, or forestland that was recently harvested. This 

practice is typically used to address the following resource concerns: degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and 

composition.

Before Situation:

Ground needs prepared for establishemnt of trees and shrubs in rows. Undesirable vegetation is present on the site including herbaceous and woody vegetation. Noxious 

and invasive species may also be present. If left uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees and/or shrubs. 

After Situation:

Ground has been prepared to establish tree and shrub rows. Undesirable vegetation has been treated using appropriate herbicides, reducing competition for target trees 

and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size of the practice is 1.5 acres. 

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.50

Scenario Total Cost: $1,043.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $695.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1.5 $21.81

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 1.5 $33.14

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1.5 $10.19

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1.5 $18.99

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1.5 $2.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 0.5 $91.90

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #5 - Hand site preparation

Scenario Description:

This practice typically involves grubbing all vegetation from the area of ground prior to the establishment of trees and/or shrubs. Typical sites include land such as old 

fields, pastures, rangelands, or abandoned forests that are mostly grass or weed covered. This practice is typically used to address the following resource concerns: 

degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

The site contains undesirable vegetation including herbaceous and woody plants. Noxious and invasive species may also be present. If left uncontrolled, undesirable 

vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees and/or shrubs. Soils are compacted as a result of recent timber harvesting activities or other land 

uses. If left untreated poor survival or reduced growth of trees/shrubs will occur, and wildlife habitat conditions will not improve. 

After Situation:

All undesirable vegetation has been grubbed out of multiple 4 ft by 4 ft areas, leaving bare soil, at each planting spot. Tree seedlings and/or shrubs are planted at each 

spot. Adequate moisture, space and light is available, allowing plants to grow properly. Site conditions are favorable for successful establishment of trees and/or shrubs. 

The typical size is 1 acres. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $387.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $387.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #6 - Windbreak, chemical only

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of chemical treatment in order to prepare a site for tree row planting and remove undesirable vegetation and improve site conditions for 

establishing trees and/or shrubs. Typical sites include abandoned fields, pastures, rangelands, or forestland that was recently harvested. This practice is typically used to 

address the following resource concerns: degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

Ground needs prepared for establishemnt of trees and shrubs in rows. Undesirable vegetation is present on the site including herbaceous and woody vegetation. Noxious 

and invasive species may also be present. If left uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees and/or shrubs. 

After Situation:

Ground has been prepare to establish tree and shrub rows. Undesirable vegetation has been treated using appropriate herbicides, reducing competition for target trees 

and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size of the practice is 1.5 acres. 

Feature Measure: Area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.50

Scenario Total Cost: $225.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $150.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 3 $20.37

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1.5 $18.99

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1.5 $2.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #33 - Windbreak - Site Preparation

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of various chemical/tillage methods to allow for the planting of a windbreak. Site preparation includes chemically killing vegegation prior to 

mechanical site preparation that includes appropriate methods to allow for planting of the site which may include one or all of the following, ripping, disking, and 

harrowing. This practice may be applied on all lands needing treatment to facilitate establishment of trees and/or shrubs to facilitate establishment of a windbreak. 

Typical sites include open land such as old fields, pastures, rangelands and agricultural fields. Resource concerns: Soil erosion--Wind erosion, .

Before Situation:

Undesirable vegetation, including woody and herbaceous plants, is present on the site. Noxious and invasive species may also be present on the site. If left uncontrolled, 

undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees and/or shrubs. Soil is compacted as a result of prior land management activities.

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been treated using appropriate herbicides, reducing competition for target trees and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful 

establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size is 1.5 acres. 

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.50

Scenario Total Cost: $888.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $592.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1.5 $21.81

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1.5 $10.19

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D 330 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $10.10 1.5 $15.15

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1.5 $18.99

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1.5 $2.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #34 - Chemical - Hand Application

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of various herbicides applied using backpack sprayer or similar equipment, and hack-n-squirt for tree control, in order to remove undesirable 

vegetation and improve site conditions for establishing trees and/or shrubs. Typical sites include lands such as old fields, pastures, rangelands, agricultural fields, previous 

forestlands that have been abandoned and are now covered with a mixture of grasses, forbs, shrubs and some remnant trees. Resource concerns are: degraded plant 

condition - undesirable plant productivity and health and inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

Undesirable vegetation, including woody and herbaceous plants, occupy 100 % of the on the site. Noxious and invasive species may also be present on the site. If left 

uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees and/or shrubs. 

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been treated using appropriate herbicides, reducing competition for target trees and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful 

establishment of trees and/or shrubs. The typical size of the practice is 40 acres. 

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,983.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $124.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 40 $3,303.60

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D + Dica 331 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Materials and shipping.

Acres $10.90 40 $436.00

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 4 $171.56

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 40 $64.40
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #36 - Chemical - Ground Application on Wildland

Scenario Description:

This scenario uses two types of herbicides and application methods. Ground-based machinery applies herbicides to the entire area to treat herbaceous and shrub 

vegetation, while single-stem treatments using a different herbicide are applied on selected individual trees. The scenario kills undesirable vegetation and creates site 

conditions suitable for establishing desirable trees and/or shrubs that are appropriate for the eco-site and meet the landowner's desired future condition. Various 

herbicides may be used depending on site conditions and target species. Typical sites are on wildlands, where heavy equipment is needed to treat vegetation on slopes 

and/or areas with limited accessibility. These sites typically occur on rangelands or degraded forestland, but may also sometimes occur on abandoned fields, pastures, or 

agricultural fields. Size of the treatment area can be less than or equal to 40 acres. Resource concerns include: Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant 

productivity and health, Inadequate structure and composition, and (on some sites) Wildfire Hazard, Excessive Biomass Accumulation; Soil Erosion - Concentrated flow 

erosion, Ephemeral gully erosion, and Classic gully erosion; Fish and Wildlife - Inadequate Habitat - Cover/Shelter, and Food; and, Water Quality - Excessive sediment in 

surface waters.

Before Situation:

The site is dominated by undesirable herbaceous and woody vegetation. Noxious and invasive species may make up part or all of the species present on the site. If left 

uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of desired species of trees and/or shrubs.

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been treated and will not compete with desired trees and/or shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for the successful establishment of trees 

and/or shrubs.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,113.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $202.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 20 $1,651.80

Chemical, ground application, 1313

forested land

Chemical application performed by ground equipment where trees and 

terrain impede passage of wide boom sprayers. Utilizes forestry 

application methods that include heavy equipment such as skidders. 

Includes material, equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $113.62 40 $4,544.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 4 $136.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #38 - Mechanical - Light

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of light/moderate machinery to remove undesirable vegetation and create site conditions suitable for establishing desirable trees and/or 

shrubs that are appropriate for the eco-site and meet the landowner's desired future condition. Machines such as a bush hog and a tiller are used to clear above-ground 

vegetation and also to rip/cut/lift underground root systems. Typical sites include abandoned fields, pastures, rangelands, agricultural fields or degraded forestland. Size 

of the treatment area can be less than or equal to 40 acres. Within the treatment area, there may be as much as 25% of the site (10 acres) that does not require bush 

hogging and/or tillage. Resource concerns include: Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate structure and composition, and 

(on some sites) Wildfire Hazard, Excessive Biomass Accumulation; Soil Erosion - Concentrated flow erosion, Ephemeral gully erosion, and Classic gully erosion; Fish and 

Wildlife - Inadequate Habitat - Cover/Shelter, and Food; and, Water Quality - Excessive sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Undesirable vegetation is present on most of the site and includes abundant herbaceous plants and a sparse component of woody species. Noxious and invasive species 

may make up part or all of the species present on the site. If left uncontrolled, undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of desired species of trees 

and/or shrubs. Soils are compacted as a result of past use of heavy equipment or other improper management.

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been removed using a bush hog to knock down undesirable vegetation. Tillage equipment has been used to break and lift root systems of 

undesirable vegetation, and to break up plow pans (<18' deep), enhancing conditions for planting and establishment/survival of trees and/or shrubs. Soil compaction has 

been alleviated, allowing moisture infiltration and aeration so roots can grow properly. Site conditions are favorable for the successful establishment of trees and/or 

shrubs.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,059.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $76.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 20 $637.80

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 30 $662.70

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #64 - Tree-Shrub Site Prep - small acreage

Scenario Description:

This practice involves the use of various chemical and tillage methods to allow for the planting of agroforestry practices and hedgerows. Site preparation includes 

chemically killing vegetation prior to mechanical site preparation that includes appropriate methods to allow for planting of the site which may include one or all of the 

following: ripping, disking, and harrowing. This practice may be applied on all lands needing treatment to facilitate establishment of trees and shrubs to facilitate 

establishment of agroforestry practices (alley cropping, forest farming, riparian forest buffer, silvopasture, and windbreak) and hedgerows. Resource concern: Soil 

erosion - wind erosion.

Before Situation:

Undesirable vegetation, including woody and herbaceous plants, is present on the site. Noxious and invasive species may also be present on the site. If left uncontrolled, 

undesirable vegetation will inhibit successful establishment of target species of trees or shrubs. Soil is compacted as a result of prior land management activities.

After Situation:

Undesirable vegetation has been treated using appropriate herbicides, reducing competition for target trees and shrubs. Site conditions are favorable for successful 

establishment of trees and shrubs. The typical size is 0.5 acre.

Feature Measure: Area of treatment

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 22.00

Scenario Total Cost: $403.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.5 $7.27

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.5 $3.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Herbicide, 2,4-D 330 Broadleaf herbicide labeled for cropland and pasture. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $10.10 0.5 $5.05

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.5 $6.33

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 0.5 $0.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 490 - Tree/Shrub Site Preparation

Scenario: #73 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation - Heavy

Scenario Description:

Windbreak/shelterbelt renovation to remove deteriorated, damaged, diseased, or unsuitable trees or shrubs. The treatment may include removal of entire rows, or 

removal of selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the necessary planting of replacement trees and shrubs within the footprint of an existing windbreak, to improve 

the health and function of the windbreak. The treatment uses mechanized equipment to remove trees and/or shrubs with average DBH > 8 inches. Trees and shrubs are 

cleared with a Dozer, Excavator, and Skid Steer. All slash material from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped, or removed from 

the treatment area. Windbreak width of 60' and length of 726' are used in calculations; this is equivalent to an area of 1 acre. Replanting of trees will use practice (380). 

Resource concerns include: Plant pest pressure, Plant productivity and health, Inadequate livestock shelter, Wind erosion.

Before Situation:

The health of trees and/or shrubs in a windbreak/shelterbelt has degraded as plants age, or plants may have been damaged by weather events or pests, decreasing the 

effectiveness of the original windbreak design. Plants lack leaf cover, have dead branches, gaps with no live green material, or may be completely dead. Wind moves freely 

through areas that lack foliage.

After Situation:

The integrity of 726 linear feet (one acre) of windbreak/ shelterbelt will be restored and is functioning properly to reduce wind impacts to plants, animals, humans, and 

structures.

Feature Measure: Length of removal

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,254.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,254.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 16 $2,953.60

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 20 $2,635.00

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 1 $22.09

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 44 $1,610.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #1 - Removal and Disposal of Fence, Feedlot

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of all existing fences around a livestock feeding/waste facility by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all fence 

materials from the site so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all materials by removal to an approved landfill, wood 

chipping and land distribution, or recycling center, burial at an approved location or burning. If burning is used, implement appropriate smoke management to protect 

public health and safety. Fence removal will address the resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard 

to their use and enjoyment.

Before Situation:

On headquarters or any land where existing feedlot fence interferes with planned land use development, public safety, or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine 

lands, construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical feedlot fence will be 300 in linear feet. The removal of the fence will be performed with the use of equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all debris from the 

fence removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as 

possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice 

is to improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape such as Upland Wildlife Habitat Management (645).

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,823.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 5 $287.10

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #2 - Removal and Disposal of Fence, landscape

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of all existing fences by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all fence materials from the site so that it does not 

impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all materials by removal to an approved landfill, wood chipping and land distribution, or recycling 

center, burial at an approved location or burning. If burning is used, implement appropriate smoke management to protect public health and safety. Remove and dispose 

of the unwanted fence obstruction in order to apply conservation practices such as Upland Wildlife Habitat Management (645) or facilitate the planned land use. Fence 

removal will address the resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment and 

reduce hazards to wildlife.

Before Situation:

On any land where existing fence interferes with planned land use development, public safety, wildlife movement and habitat, or infrastructure. The site may be 

abandoned mine lands, construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions 

from aquatic environments.

After Situation:

The typical fence will be 2640 in linear feet. The removal of the fence will be performed with the use of equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all debris from the fence 

removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. 

Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to 

improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape such as Upland Wildlife Habitat Management (645).

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,894.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 20 $1,148.40

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 21 $501.48

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 21 $653.94

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #3 - Removal and Disposal of Power Lines and Poles

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of power lines and poles thru demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all power lines and poles so that it does not 

impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all power lines and poles by removal to an approved location, or reuse location. Remove and 

dispose all power lines and poles in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Rocks and or boulders will address the resource concerns of 

the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical length is 2640 linear feet of an impaired area. The removal of power lines and poles will be performed by using means required for removal with the use of 

heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all lines and poles from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite 

damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for 

seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better 

use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Length of Power Lines

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,316.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 20 $1,580.80

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 20 $1,148.40

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 20 $2,105.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 21 $501.48

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 42 $1,307.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 42 $1,537.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #4 - Removal and Disposal of Steel and or Concrete Structures

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of large steel and or concrete structures by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all steel and or concrete 

structures so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all steel and or concrete structures by removal to an approved 

location, or reuse location. Remove and dispose all steel and or concrete structures in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Steel and or 

concrete structure removal will address the resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use 

and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 2000 square feet of impaired land. The removal of steel and or concrete structures will be performed by demolition, excavation or other means 

required for removal with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all steel and or concrete structures from the obstruction removal so that it does not 

impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS 

Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site 

conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $28,894.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 50 $9,230.00

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 50 $5,107.00

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 50 $5,264.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 51 $1,217.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 153 $5,599.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #5 - Removal and Disposal of Wood Structures

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of wood structures (including large isolated trees) by demolition, excavation or other similar means required for removal. Dispose of all wood 

structures so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all wood structures by removal to an approved location, landfill, or 

reuse location. Remove and dispose all wood structures in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Wood structure removal will address 

the resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 2000 square feet of impaired land. The removal of wood structures will be performed by demolition, excavation or other similar means required 

for removal with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all wood structures from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or 

cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, 

Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply conservation 

practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,752.13

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 25 $4,615.00

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 25 $2,553.50

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 25 $2,632.25

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 78 $2,854.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #6 - Removal and disposal of individual landscape structures

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of individual landscape structures (windmills, large trees, etc.) by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all 

landscape structures so that it does not impede wildlife movement and/or subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all associated materials by 

removal to an approved location, or reuse location. Remove and dispose all materials in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Landscape 

structure removal will address the resource concerns of wildlife collision or avoidance at the landscape level. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be recreation areas, farms, ranches, 

and areas. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be an area of 15 feet by 15 feet (225 square feet) of impaired land. The removal of landscape structures will be performed by demolition, excavation 

or other means required for removal with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all materials from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede 

wildlife movement or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation 

Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to 

apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 225.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,969.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 2 $263.50

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 2 $114.84

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 1 $55.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 3 $109.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #7 - Removal and Disposal of Brush and Trees <= 6 inch Diameter

Scenario Description:

Remove and dispose of brush and trees predominantly <= 6 inches in diameter by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all brush and 

trees so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all brush and trees by removal to an approved landfill, wood chipping and 

or land distribution, or recycling center, burial at an approved location or burning. If burning is used, implement appropriate smoke management to protect public health 

and safety. Remove and dispose of brush and trees in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Brush and tree removal will address the 

resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,024.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,512.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 8 $809.68

Brush Chipper, 6 in. capacity 938 Brush Chipper, 6 inch capacity, typically 35 HP. Includes chipper and 

power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $35.31 8 $282.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 9 $280.26

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #8 - Removal and Disposal of Brush and Trees > 6 inch Diameter

Scenario Description:

Remove and dispose of brush and trees predominantly > 6 inches in diameter by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all brush and 

trees so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all brush and trees by removal to an approved landfill, wood chipping and 

or land distribution, or recycling center, burial at an approved location or burning. If burning is used, implement appropriate smoke management to protect public health 

and safety. Remove and dispose of brush and trees in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Brush and tree removal will address the 

resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 2.0 acre impaired area. The removal of brush and trees > 6 inch diameter will be performed with the use of equipment and hand labor. Dispose 

of all brush and trees from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from 

erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and 

mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,420.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,710.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 10 $1,846.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Brush Chipper, 15 in. capacity 1868 Brush Chipper, 15 inch capacity, typically 165 HP. Includes chipper and 

power unit. Does not include labor.

Hours $76.71 10 $767.10

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 11 $342.54

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 11 $402.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #27 - Removal and Disposal of Concrete Slab

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of concrete slabs by saw cutting, demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of concrete slabs so that it does not impede 

subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all concrete slabs by removal to an approved location, or reuse location. Typical disposal is burial on site. 

Remove and dispose all concrete slabs in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Concrete slab removal will address the resource concerns 

of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment.

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, construction 

sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 1000 square feet of impaired land. The removal of concrete slabs will be performed by demolition, excavation or other means required for 

removal with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all concrete slabs from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause 

onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical 

Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices 

or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,324.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 2 $195.96

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 2 $210.58

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #61 - Removal and Disposal of Fence

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of all existing fences by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all fence materials from the site so that it does not 

impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all materials by removal to an approved landfill, wood chipping and land distribution, or recycling 

center, burial at an approved location or burning. If burning is used, implement appropriate smoke management to protect public health and safety. Remove and dispose 

of the unwanted fence obstruction in order to apply conservation practices such as Upland Wildlife Habitat Management (645) or facilitate the planned land use. Fence 

removal will address the resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment and 

reduce hazards to wildlife.

Before Situation:

On any land where existing fence interferes with planned land use development, public safety, wildlife movement and habitat, or infrastructure. The site may be 

abandoned mine lands, construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions 

from aquatic environments.

After Situation:

The typical fence will be 2640 in linear feet. The removal of the fence will be performed with the use of equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all debris from the fence 

removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. 

Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to 

improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape such as Upland Wildlife Habitat Management (645).

Feature Measure: Length of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,556.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 20 $1,148.40

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 21 $501.48

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #101 - Removal and Disposal of Brush and Trees < 6 inch Diameter

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of brush and trees < 6 inches in diameter by demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all brush and trees so that it 

does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all brush and trees by removal to an approved landfill, wood chipping and or land 

distribution, or recycling center, burial at an approved location or burning. If burning is used, implement appropriate smoke management to protect public health and 

safety. Remove and dispose of brush and trees in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Brush and tree removal will address the 

resource concerns of the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 2.0 acre impaired area. The removal of brush and trees < 6 inch diameter will be performed with the use of equipment and hand labor. Dispose 

of all brush and trees from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from 

erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and 

mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Land Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,820.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,410.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 8 $809.68

Brush Chipper, 6 in. capacity 938 Brush Chipper, 6 inch capacity, typically 35 HP. Includes chipper and 

power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $35.31 8 $282.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 9 $287.28

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #114 - Removal and Disposal of Rock and or Boulders

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of rock and or boulders by drilling, blasting, demolition, excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all rocks and or boulders so that 

it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all rock and or boulders by removal to an approved location, or reuse location. Remove 

and dispose all rock and or boulders in order to apply conservation practices or facilitate the planned land use. Rocks and or boulders will address the resource concerns of 

the prevention or hindrance to the installation of conservation practices or present a hazard to their use and enjoyment. 

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site may be abandoned mine lands, 

construction sites, recreation areas, farms, ranches, and areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic 

environments.

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 5.0 acre impaired area. The removal of rock and or boulders will be performed by drilling, blasting, demolition, excavation or other means 

required for removal with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all rocks and boulders from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede 

subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation 

Practice Standard 342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to 

apply conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: Volume

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $72,051.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $144.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 240 $24,513.60

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 240 $25,269.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 241 $7,692.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 241 $5,755.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 241 $8,820.60
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #119 - Removal and disposal of light sand and flood sediment > 30 inches

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of > 30' of sand and flood deposited sediments by excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all sand and flood deposited 

sediments so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all sand and flood deposited sediments by removal to an approved 

location, or re-use location. Sand and/or silt removal will only address sand and/or silt obstructing farmland and cropland

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with the return of land to its function prior to the occurrence of a natural disaster. The site may be recreation areas, 

farms, ranches, or other areas affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic environments, aquatic environment does not 

include land covered by flood waters that have rescinded

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 30 acre impaired area. The removal of sand and flood deposited sediments will be performed by excavation or other means required for removal 

with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all sand and flood deposited sediments from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent 

work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 

342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply 

conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: area covers by sediment greater th

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $139,886.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,662.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 173 $9,933.66

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 693 $72,965.97

Front End Loader, 130 HP 1618 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 110 to 140. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $63.55 173 $10,994.15

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 1109 $40,589.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 7 $5,403.16
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #120 - Removal and disposal of heavy scattered debris

Scenario Description:

Removal of a heavy concentration of debris from farmland deposited by natural disaster. Includes the cost of all labor, equipment and disposal from area of debris. Debris 

is defined as woody material, rock, concrete, trash, and personal property deposited by natural disaster. This disposal shall be in accordance with all applicable Federal, 

State, and local laws, rules, and regulations. Dispose of all scattered debris so it does not impede farm operations or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all 

scattered debris by removal to an approved location, landfill, or reuse location. Scattered debris removal will only address debris obstructing farmland not in the footprint 

of a structure

Before Situation:

On any crop, farm or ranch land where debris from storm damage interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site is covered with 

light debris, (wood, trees, metal, and other damage materials). Debris is scattered over a percentage of the field. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from 

aquatic environments

After Situation:

Scattered debris is removed from a affected area of the field.

Feature Measure: Area of debris

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 12,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,191.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 30 $5,538.00

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 30 $3,064.20

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 30 $190.80

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 30 $3,170.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 60 $2,196.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #121 - Removal and disposal of light sand and flood sediment 12-30 inches

Scenario Description:

Remove and disposal of 12' to 30' of sand and flood deposited sediments by excavation or other means required for removal. Dispose of all sand and flood deposited 

sediments so that it does not impede subsequent work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all sand and flood deposited sediments by removal to an approved 

location, or re-use location. Sand and/or silt removal will only address sand and/or silt obstructing farmland and cropland

Before Situation:

On any land where existing obstructions interfere with the return of land to its function prior to the occurrence of a natural disaster. The site may be cropland, farms, or 

ranches affected by natural disasters. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic environments, aquatic environment does not include land covered 

by flood waters that have rescinded

After Situation:

The typical area will be a 30 acre impaired area. The removal of sand and flood deposited sediments will be performed by excavation or other means required for removal 

with the use of heavy equipment and hand labor. Dispose of all sand and flood deposited sediments from the obstruction removal so that it does not impede subsequent 

work or cause onsite or offsite damage. Revegetate or otherwise protect from erosion disturbed areas as soon as possible. Refer to NRCS Conservation Practice Standard 

342, Critical Area Planting for seedbed preparation, seeding, fertilizing, and mulching requirements. The practice is to improve site conditions in order to apply 

conservation practices or facilitate better use of the landscape.

Feature Measure: area covered by sediment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $97,209.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,240.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 140 $14,169.40

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 100 $5,742.00

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 400 $42,116.00

Front End Loader, 130 HP 1618 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 110 to 140. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $63.55 100 $6,355.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 640 $23,424.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 7 $5,403.16
Practice: 500 - Obstruction Removal

Scenario: #122 - Removal and disposal of light scattered debris

Scenario Description:

Removal of debris from farmland deposited by natural disaster. Includes the cost of all labor, equipment and disposal. Debris is defined as woody material, rock, trash, and 

personal property deposited by natural disaster. This disposal shall be in accordance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, and regulations. Dispose of all 

scattered debris so it does not impede farm operations or cause onsite or offsite damage. Dispose of all scattered debris by removal to an approved location, landfill, or 

reuse location. Scattered debris removal will only address debris obstructing farmland not in the footprint of a structure

Before Situation:

On any crop, farm, or ranch land where debris from storm damage interfere with planned land use development, public safety or infrastructure. The site is covered with 

light debris, (wood, trees, metal, and other damage materials) on a percentage of the field. This is not intended for the removal of obstructions from aquatic environments

After Situation:

Debris is removed from the field and land returned to prior use

Feature Measure: Area of debris scatter

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,909.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $490.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 10 $574.20

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Tractor, agricultural, 160 HP 1203 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 140 to 190. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.94 10 $1,019.40

Trailer, flatbed, small 1505 Small flatbed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a pickup 

to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $10.46 10 $104.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 30 $934.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 511 - Forage Harvest Management

Scenario: #1 - Improved Forage Quality

Scenario Description:

Improved cultural practices and recordkeeping result in better forage quality and better livestock performance.

Before Situation:

Forage cutting heights are as close to the ground as equipment will allow resulting in very low stubble height. Plant regrowth is very slow. Forage quality tests are not 

regularly done. Records of forage quality components, cutting heights, moisture content, and harvest schedule are not regularly kept.

After Situation:

Forage cutting heights are raised to leave at least 3-4' stubble height for cool season grasses and 6' for warm season grasses. Increased residual forage results in much 

faster plant regrowth. Forage quality tests are submitted to an accredited lab for analysis. Records of forage quality components, cutting heights, moisture content, and 

harvest schedule are regularly kept to track increased forage quality and improved livestock performance.

Feature Measure: Improved Relative Feed Value

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $198.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 2 $50.54
Practice: 511 - Forage Harvest Management

Scenario: #2 - Organic Preemptive Harvest

Scenario Description:

Preemptive harvest of forage crops to prevent damage from insects (such as leafhopper on alfalfa) or other pests results in better forage quality and better livestock 

performance.

Before Situation:

Forage pests are usually controlled with pesticides.

After Situation:

In organic or transitioning to organic systems, forage pests are controlled by executing a preemptive harvest before pests can damage forage quality. Forage yields are 

reduced because of immature stage of forage growth. Forage tests are submitted to an accredited lab for analysis. Records of forage quality components are used to 

adjust feeding rations.

Feature Measure: Relative Feed Value Maintained

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $198.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 2 $50.54
Practice: 511 - Forage Harvest Management

Scenario: #3 - Per-Ann Crops - Delayed Mowing

Scenario Description:

In perennial or annual forage crops, the delaying the harvest of the first cutting to promote the reproduction of ground nesting birds. Delaying the harvest of the first 

cutting will benefit ground nesting birds; research at the University of Vermont showed that breeding success for declining grassland songbirds (e.g. Bobolink) went from 0 

on a regularly harvested hay field to 2.8 fledglings per female per year when the the first harvest on a hayfield was delayed until August 1st. Bobolinks, Eastern 

Meadowlarks, and Savannah Sparrows require a nesting period to fledge young that lasts through the end of July in most parts of the eastern US. The delayed harvest 

results in a decrease in overall forage quality. Farmers could see as much as a 50% reduction in market value due to declines in protein (~50%) and digestibility (~20%), 

making the forage crop less palatable and lower in relative feed value. The selected fields should be large enough to promote ground nesting birds. After young have 

fledged the field will be harvested for dry forages.

Before Situation:

Perennial or annual forage crops are produced and harvested; ground nesting birds are disturbed and/or fledgling birds are killed in the process.

After Situation:

Perennial or annual forage crops are harvested with a delayed mowing; forage quality is compromised, however, the survival of ground nesting birds is promoted.

Feature Measure: Increased grassland bird populatio

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $198.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 2 $50.54
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #3 - Native Perennial Grasses, multi species

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted perennial native warm season grasses to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the grazing season, 

and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial native warm season grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife 

openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. 

Before Situation:

Poorly managed/degraded pasture land or cropland being converted to pasture and/or hay. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,701.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $171.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 80 $10,797.60
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #4 - Native Perennial Grasses, multi species, forgone income

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted perennial native warm season grasses to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the grazing season, 

and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial native warm season grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife 

openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. The 

land being seeded was previously cropland with a typical rotation of wheat and corn. 

Before Situation:

Cropland being converted to pasture and/or hay. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $33,104.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $413.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 40 $14,099.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 40 $7,839.20

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 -80 ($2,536.00)

Month

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 80 $10,797.60
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #5 - Introduced Perennial Grasses-Legume

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted perennial introduced grasses and legumes to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the grazing 

season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial introduced grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife 

openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. 

Before Situation:

Poor or nonexistent stand of grass species. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil 

erosion and soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,043.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $84.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 60 $872.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 60 $1,305.60

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 60 $2,865.60
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #6 - Introduced Perennial Grasses-Legume, foregone income

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted perennial introduced grasses and legumes to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the grazing 

season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial introduced grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife 

openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. The 

land being seeded was previously cropland with a typical rotation of wheat and corn. 

Before Situation:

Cropland being converted to grass. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion and 

soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,595.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $326.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 60 $872.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 60 $1,305.60

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 30 $10,574.40

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 30 $5,879.40

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 -60 ($1,902.00)

Month

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 60 $2,865.60
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #7 - Introduced Perennial & Native Grass Mix 

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted introduced grasses and at least one native species to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the 

grazing season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife openings. Native grass 

species, which have a significantly greater cost than introduced species, comprise one third of the grass mixture. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular 

production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. 

Before Situation:

Existing stand of perennial grasses, a monoculture, or no grasses present. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and 

forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,008.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $125.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2502

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Low Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include 

biennials and a small percentage of annual species for establishment 

purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium 

density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $88.80 80 $7,104.00
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #8 - Introduced Perennial & Native Grass Mix, foregone income 

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted introduced grasses and at least one native species to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the 

grazing season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife openings. Native grass 

species, which have a significantly greater cost than introduced species, comprise one third of the grass mixture. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular 

production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. The land being seeded was previously cropland with a typical 

rotation of wheat and corn. 

Before Situation:

Land currently being cropped. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil 

quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $29,410.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $367.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 40 $14,099.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 40 $7,839.20

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 -80 ($2,536.00)

Month

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2502

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Low Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include 

biennials and a small percentage of annual species for establishment 

purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium 

density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $88.80 80 $7,104.00
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #9 - Introduced Perennial Grasses with lime application 

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted perennial introduced grasses to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the grazing season, and 

provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial introduced grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife openings. Includes a 

lime application. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and 

seeding. 

Before Situation:

Poor or nonexistent stand of grass species. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil 

erosion and soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,483.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $174.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 20 $186.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 20 $435.20

Materials

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 20 $955.20
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #10 - Bermuda Grass Establishment-Sprigging with fertilizer 

Scenario Description:

Sprigging new grasses with sprigging application for the purpose of providing forage, increasing plant diversity, soil quality and fertility, and plant health. This practice 

may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes fertilizer, sprigs, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, sprigging,and spreading. 

Before Situation:

Poor or nonexistent stand of grass species. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil 

erosion and soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,221.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $211.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 20 $153.60

Ground sprigging 1101 Includes costs for equipment, power unit and labor. Acres $67.27 20 $1,345.40

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Anhydrous Ammonia 68 Price per pound of N supplied by Anhydrous Ammonia. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.46 400 $184.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 400 $316.00

Perennial Grass Sprigs or 2323

Rhizomes, acre

Perennial grasses used across a large area using vegetative propagules 

including sprigs or rhizomes. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $96.60 20 $1,932.00
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #11 - Bermuda Grass Establishment-Sprigging with fertilizer and lime 

Scenario Description:

Sprigging new grasses with sprigging application for the purpose of providing forage, increasing plant diversity, soil quality and fertility, and plant health. This practice may 

be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes fertilizer, sprigs, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, sprigging, and spreading. 

Before Situation:

Poor or nonexistent stand of grass species. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil 

erosion and soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,023.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $301.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 20 $153.60

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 20 $186.40

Ground sprigging 1101 Includes costs for equipment, power unit and labor. Acres $67.27 20 $1,345.40

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Anhydrous Ammonia 68 Price per pound of N supplied by Anhydrous Ammonia. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.46 400 $184.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 400 $316.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 20 $1,615.40

Perennial Grass Sprigs or 2323

Rhizomes, acre

Perennial grasses used across a large area using vegetative propagules 

including sprigs or rhizomes. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $96.60 20 $1,932.00
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #12 - Introduced Perennial Grasses-Legumes on irrigated cropland 

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted perennial introduced grasses and legumes to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, extend the length of the grazing 

season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial introduced grasses for pasture, hayland, and wildlife 

openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, tillage, and seeding. 

Before Situation:

Irrigated cropland being converted to pasture and/or hay. Resource concerns may include undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for 

livestock, soil erosion and soil quality. 

After Situation:

Suitable species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on croplan, ,hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,909.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $131.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 60 $872.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 60 $1,305.60

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 120 $5,731.20
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #14 - Organic

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted organic perennial cool season grasses or cool season grass and legumes mix to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, 

extend the length of the grazing season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial cool season grasses for 

pasture, hayland, and wildlife openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed 

prep, tillage, and seeding. 

Before Situation:

Poorly managed/degraded pasture or cropland being converted to pasture and/or hay. 

After Situation:

Suitable organic species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,108.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $138.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 160 $2,326.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Materials

Certified Organic, Perennial 2340

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs

Perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, mostly introduced but may be 

native, may include biennials. Used for permanent plantings such as 

pastures. Certified organic. Includes material and shipping only.

Acres $88.02 80 $7,041.60
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #15 - Organic, forgone income

Scenario Description:

Establish or reseed adapted organic perennial cool season grasses or cool season grass and legumes mix to improve or maintain livestock/wildlife nutrition and health, 

extend the length of the grazing season, and provide soil cover to reduce erosion. Used for either conventional or no-till seeding of perennial cool season grasses for 

pasture, hayland, and wildlife openings. This practice may be utilized for organic or regular production. This scenario includes seed, equipment and labor for seedbed prep, 

tillage, and seeding. The land being seeded was previously cropland with a typical rotation of wheat and corn. 

Before Situation:

Cropland being converted to pasture and/or hay. 

After Situation:

Suitable organic species are established to improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on cropland, hayland, pasture, and/or biomass production. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $30,511.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $381.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 160 $2,326.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 40 $14,099.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 40 $7,839.20

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 -80 ($2,536.00)

Month

Materials

Certified Organic, Perennial 2340

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs

Perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, mostly introduced but may be 

native, may include biennials. Used for permanent plantings such as 

pastures. Certified organic. Includes material and shipping only.

Acres $88.02 80 $7,041.60
Practice: 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting

Scenario: #16 - PP Interseed Legumes

Scenario Description:

Inter-seed legumes and/or forbs into an existing grass stand for the purpose of increasing plant diversity, soil quality and fertility, plant health and enhancing the quality of 

forage. Scenario is appropriate for conventional production. Payment includes seed, seeding and fertility for inter-seeding establishment.

Before Situation:

Existing grass stand that needs additional species diversity. 

After Situation:

A more diverse grass stand provides improved forage quality and availability, and improved soil condition. Payment scenario is based on red and ladino clover inter-seeded 

into a 20 acre cool season grass stand. Inputs are based on medium to low existing fertility.

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage and Biomass Planti

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,146.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $357.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 20 $153.60

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 20 $186.40

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 20 $435.20

Materials

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 700 $553.00

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 2000 $1,360.00

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 40 $3,230.80

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #1 - Shallow or Above Ground Pipeline, any diameter

Scenario Description:

Description: 1,320 feet of 1 1/4' PE pipe installed above ground or at a 12' depth to supply water for domestic animals. Installation includes all appurtenances and labor. 

Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief valve, and are included in the cost of pipe 

material. Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), 

Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614),Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Inadequate water supply for domestic animals located on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains region. This practice will be installed either above 

ground or within 18' of the surface due to site conditions (i.e., difficult to install pipe below frost depth) or areas where allowed by waiver or state specific practice 

standard allows for installation of portable pipelines.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. 

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,455.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Pipeline Plowing 1096 Includes equipment and labor for plowing small diameter lines in 

common earth (< 3 inch)

Feet $1.10 1320 $1,452.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 537.2 $1,993.01

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #2 - Standard Installation, 2 inch dia. or less (KS/NE)

Scenario Description:

Description: The 1,500 foot 1 1/4' PE pipeline installed at a depth of 48' will meet the needs of domestic animals. This type of installation is only appropriate in the 

warmer climate of the northern plains region (KS & NE). This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct and install the 

pipeline. Appurtenances include: fittings, anchors, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief valve, and are included in the cost of pipe 

material. Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), 

Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Inadequate water supply for domestic animals located on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the warmer climate of the northern plains region (KS & NE).

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. Pipeline will supply adequate water for domestic animals 

on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the NE and KS (warmer climate). The 1,500 feet of 1 1/4' diameter PE pipe will be installed below ground at a depth of 48' to 

60' to meet the water quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,133.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Pipeline Plowing 1096 Includes equipment and labor for plowing small diameter lines in 

common earth (< 3 inch)

Feet $1.10 1500 $1,650.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 610.5 $2,264.96

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #3 - Standard Installation, 2 inch dia. or less (ND-SD)

Scenario Description:

Description: The 2,640 foot 1 1/2' PVC pipeline installed at a depth of 72' will meet the needs of domestic animals. This type of installation is only appropriate in the 

colder climate of the northern plains region (ND & SD). This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct and install the 

pipeline. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, anchors, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief valve, and are included in the 

cost of pipe material. Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Inadequate water supply for domestic animals located on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the colder climate of the northern plains region (ND & SD).

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. Pipeline will supply adequate water for domestic animals 

on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains region (ND & SD). The 2,640 feet of 1 1/2' diameter PVC pipe will be installed below ground at a depth of 

greater than 60' to meet the water quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,632.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 60 in. 1459 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 60 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching, laying 3 to 6 inch CPP drain line with envelope, and 

backfilling.

Feet $1.86 2640 $4,910.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 44 $1,050.72

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 2 $320.52

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1510.1 $3,578.94

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #4 - Standard Installation, greater than 2 inch dia.

Scenario Description:

Description: The 5,000 feet of 3' PVC pipeline installed at a depth of 72' will meet the needs of domestic animals. This type of installation is appropriate in the the 

northern plains region. This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct and install the pipeline. Appurtenances include: 

couplings, fittings, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief valve, and are included in the cost of pipe material. Revegetation is not 

included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering 

Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. Pipeline will supply adequate water for domestic animals 

on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains region (ND & SD). The 5,000 feet of 3' diameter PVC pipe will be installed below ground at a depth of 

greater than 60' to meet the water quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $24,224.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 32 $1,646.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 64 $1,528.32

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 32 $996.48

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 4 $641.04

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 7865 $18,640.05

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #5 - Backhoe, 2 inch dia. or less

Scenario Description:

Description: The 2,640 feet 2' PVC pipeline installed at a depth of 60' in rocky conditions to meet the needs of domestic animals. Trencher installation is not possible due 

to site conditions. This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct and install the pipeline. Appurtenances include: couplings, 

fittings, expansion joints, anchors, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief valve, and are included in the cost of pipe material. 

Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant 

(533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. Pipeline will supply adequate water for domestic animals 

on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains. The 2,640 feet of 2' diameter PVC pipe will be installed in rocky conditions at a depth of 60' or more to 

meet the water quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,697.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 80 $5,344.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 84 $2,005.92

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 80 $2,491.20

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 2 $320.52

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 2003.8 $4,749.01

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2060

common

Purchased earthfill materials includes both silt or clay. Material only. Cubic Yards $20.29 50 $1,014.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #6 - Backhoe, greater than 2 inch dia.

Scenario Description:

Description: The 2,640 feet 3' PVC pipeline installed at a depth of 60' in rocky conditions to meet the needs of domestic animals. Trencher installation is not possible due 

to site conditions. This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct and install the pipeline. Appurtenances include: couplings, 

fittings, expansion joints, anchors, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief valve, and are included in the cost of pipe material. 

Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant 

(533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. Pipeline will supply adequate water for domestic animals 

on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains. The 2,640 feet of 3' diameter PVC pipe will be installed in rocky conditions at a depth of 60' or more to 

meet the water quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,790.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 80 $5,344.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 84 $2,005.92

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 80 $2,491.20

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 2 $320.52

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 4152.7 $9,841.90

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2060

common

Purchased earthfill materials includes both silt or clay. Material only. Cubic Yards $20.29 50 $1,014.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #7 - Boring, any diameter

Scenario Description:

Description: 200 feet of 2' PVC pipeline installed by boring through road bed or under streams to meet the needs of domestic animals. Typical trencher or plowing 

installation is not possible due to site disturbance or environmental concerns. This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct 

and install the pipeline. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, expansion joints, anchors, thrust blocks, gate valves, air release valves, drain valve, and pressure relief 

valve, and are included in the cost of pipe material. Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated 

Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed 

Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. Pipeline will supply adequate water for domestic animals 

on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains. The 200 feet of 2' diameter PVC pipe will be installedunder roads or streams at a depth of 60' or more to 

avoid unnecessary disturbance and to meet the water quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,535.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $82.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Horizontal Boring, Less Than 1131

Equal 3 in. diameter

Includes equipment, labor and setup. Feet $76.38 200 $15,276.00

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 138 $327.06

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #8 - Rural Water Connection Equipment

Scenario Description:

The rural water connection includes the 4' manhole, meter, 500' of pipe, valves, and necessary installation for connecting from a rural water pipeline to a livestock 

distribution pipeline. This item includes installation, all materials, appurtenances, and labor required to construct and install the meter pit. This item does not include the 

hook-up fees to the rural water system. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), 

Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636), Spring Development (574), and Prescribed Grazing (528). 

Before Situation:

Inadequate water supply for domestic animals located on grazed range, pasture, or grazed forest in the northern plains region. 

After Situation:

A rural water connection which provides access to a reliable, high quality water supply for meeting the needs of domestic animals on grazed range, pasture, or grazed 

forest in the northern plains region. The 4' manhole, meter, pipe and appurtenances will enable the pipeline to meet the quantity requirements of domestic animals.

Feature Measure: Rural Water Connection

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,274.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,274.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 6 $308.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Manhole, 4 ft x 4 ft 1053 Precast Manhole with base and top delivered. 4 feet diameter x 4 

feet. Includes materials only.

Each $1,415.70 1 $1,415.70

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 414 $981.18

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #106 - HDPE (Iron Pipe Size and Tubing), Small Scale

Scenario Description:

Below ground installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size &Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS &Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 24-inch; and typical 

scenario size is 1-inch. Construct 260 feet of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR 13.5), HDPE pipeline with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum 2 feet of ground 

cover. The unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 260 feet of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR-13.5), HDPE weighs 0.16 lb/ft, or a total of 42 pounds. Appurtenances include: 

fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost 

of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: 

Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting 

Catchment (636).

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife.

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 42.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,686.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $63.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 260 $358.80

Fuser for HDPE Pipe 1383 Fusing machine for 1 to 12 inch diameter HDPE pipe joints. Equipment 

costs only. Does not include labor.

Hours $28.86 8 $230.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 46 $170.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #107 - Surface HDPE (Iron Pipe Size and Tubing), Small Scale

Scenario Description:

On-ground surface installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size &Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS &Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 24-inch; and 

typical scenario size is 1-inch. Construct 260 feet of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR 13.5), HDPE pipeline with appurtenances. The unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 260 feet 

of 1-inch, Class 130 (SDR-13.5), HDPE weighs 0.16 lb/ft, or a total of 42 pounds. Appurtenances include fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and 

inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow 

preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated 

Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636).

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife.

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 42.00

Scenario Total Cost: $864.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fuser for HDPE Pipe 1383 Fusing machine for 1 to 12 inch diameter HDPE pipe joints. Equipment 

costs only. Does not include labor.

Hours $28.86 8 $230.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 46 $170.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #163 - PVC (Iron Pipe Size)

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of PVC (Iron Pipe Size) pipeline. PVC (IPS) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 36-inch; typical practice sizes 

range from 1-inch to 4-inch; and typical scenario size is 1??-inch. Construct one mile (5,280 feet) of 1??-inch, Schedule 40, PVC Pipeline with appurtenances, installed 

below ground with a minimum 1.5 feet of ground cover. The scenario unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 5,280 feet of 1??-inch, Schedule 40, PVC pipe weighs 

0.501 lb/ft, or a total of 2,645 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, thrust blocks, gate valves (2), air release valves (2), drain valve (1), and pressure relief 

valve (1), and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock 

Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. 

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 2,645.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,873.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 5280 $7,286.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 2910 $6,896.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #164 - HDPE (Iron Pipe Size & Tubing)

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size & Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS &Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 24-

inch; typical practice sizes range from 1-inch to 4-inch; and typical scenario size is 1??-inch. Construct one mile (5,280 feet) of 1??-inch, Class 200 (SDR-9.0, PE4708), HDPE 

Pipeline with appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum 1.5 feet of ground cover. Typical size range of pipe installed: 1-inch to 4-inch. The scenario unit is 

weight of pipe material in pounds. 5,280 feet of 1??-inch, Class 200 (SDR-9.0, PE4708), HDPE pipe weighs 0.475 lb/ft, or a total of 2,508 pounds. Appurtenances include: 

fittings, anchors, thrust blocks, gate valves (2), air release valves (2), drain valve (1), and pressure relief valve (1), and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 

10% of pipe material quantity). Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area 

Planting (342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. 

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 2,508.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,582.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Pipeline Plowing 1096 Includes equipment and labor for plowing small diameter lines in 

common earth (< 3 inch)

Feet $1.10 5280 $5,808.00

Fuser for HDPE Pipe 1383 Fusing machine for 1 to 12 inch diameter HDPE pipe joints. Equipment 

costs only. Does not include labor.

Hours $28.86 8 $230.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 2759 $10,235.89

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #165 - Surface HDPE (Iron Pipe Size & Tubing)

Scenario Description:

Description: on-ground surface installation of HDPE (Iron Pipe Size & Tubing) pipeline. HDPE (IPS & Tubing) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 

24-inch; typical practice sizes range from 1-inch to 4-inch; and typical scenario size is 1??-inch. Construct one mile (5,280 feet) of 1??-inch, Class 200 (SDR-9.0, PE4708), 

HDPE Pipeline with appurtenances, installed on the ground surface. Typical size range of pipe installed: 1-inch to 4-inch. The scenario unit is weight of pipe material in 

pounds. 5,280 feet of 1??-inch, Class 200 (SDR-9.0, PE4708), HDPE pipe weighs 0.475 lb/ft, or a total of 2,508 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, anchors, 

thrust blocks, gate valves (2), air release valves (2), drain valve (1), and pressure relief valve (1), and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 15% of pipe 

material quantity). Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. 

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 2,508.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,062.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fuser for HDPE Pipe 1383 Fusing machine for 1 to 12 inch diameter HDPE pipe joints. Equipment 

costs only. Does not include labor.

Hours $28.86 8 $230.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 2884 $10,699.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #166 - Steel (Iron Pipe Size)

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of Steel (Iron Pipe Size) pipeline. Steel (IPS) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 36-inch; typical practice 

sizes range from 1-inch to 4-inch; and typical scenario size is 1??-inch. Construct one mile (5,280 feet) of 1??-inch, Schedule 40, Galvanized Steel Pipeline with 

appurtenances, installed below ground with a minimum 1.5 feet of ground cover. Typical size range of pipe installed: 1-inch to 4-inch. The scenario unit is weight of pipe 

material in pounds. 5,280 feet of 1??-inch, Schedule 40, Galvanized Steel Pipe weighs 2.718 lb/ft, or a total of 14,351 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, 

thrust blocks, gate valves (2), air release valves (2), drain valve (1), and pressure relief valve (1), and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe 

material quantity). Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. 

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 14,351.00

Scenario Total Cost: $46,682.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 5280 $7,286.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 144 $3,438.72

Materials

Pipe, steel, smooth wall, 1381

galvanized, weight priced

Steel manufactured into galvanized smooth wall pipe Pound $2.18 15786 $34,413.48

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Scenario: #167 - Surface Steel (Iron Pipe Size)

Scenario Description:

Description: on-ground surface installation of Steel (Iron Pipe Size) pipeline. Steel (IPS) is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from ??-inch to 36-inch; typical 

practice sizes range from 1-inch to 4-inch; and typical scenario size is 1??-inch. Construct one mile (5,280 feet) of 1??-inch, Schedule 40, Galvanized Steel Pipeline with 

appurtenances, installed on the ground surface. Typical size range of pipe installed: 1-inch to 4-inch. The scenario unit is weight of pipe material in pounds. 5,280 feet of 

1??-inch, Schedule 40, Galvanized Steel Pipe weighs 2.718 lb/ft, or a total of 14,351 pounds. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, expansion joints, anchors, thrust 

blocks, gate valves (2), air release valves (2), drain valve (1), and pressure relief valve (1), and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 15% of pipe material 

quantity). Revegetation is not included. Resource Concerns: Inadequate Livestock Water, Inefficient Energy Use. Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), 

Pumping Plant (533), Watering Facility (614), and Water Harvesting Catchment (636). 

Before Situation:

Water supplies need to be conveyed through pipelines for use by livestock or wildlife.

After Situation:

Pipeline(s) convey and/or distribute water to storage and/or watering facilities, for use by livestock or wildlife. 

Feature Measure: Weight of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Pound

Scenario Typical Size: 14,351.00

Scenario Total Cost: $39,417.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 144 $3,438.72

Materials

Pipe, steel, smooth wall, 1381

galvanized, weight priced

Steel manufactured into galvanized smooth wall pipe Pound $2.18 16504 $35,978.72
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #60 - Soil Dispersant - Uncovered

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with a soil dispersant, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation 

includes incorporation of the dispersant with the soil liner under proper moisture conditions and compaction to the designed liner thickness. Practice implementation may 

require filter compatibility with the subgrade (graded filter or geotextile). Associated practice PS378, PS313.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. Soils are suitable for treatment with dispersants. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material 

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,348.43

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1613 $6,242.31

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Soil Dispersant 1490 Soil Amendment (tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP), sodium 

tripolyphosphate (STPP), or soda ash or approved equivalent)

Ton $460.98 6.53 $3,010.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 1 $1.00

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #61 - Soil Dispersant - Covered

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with a soil dispersant, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation 

includes incorporation of the dispersant with the soil liner under proper moisture conditions, compaction to the designed liner thickness, and placement of soil cover over 

the treated liner. Practice implementation may require filter compatibility with the subgrade (graded filter or geotextile). Associated practice PS378, PS313.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. Soils are suitable for treatment with dispersants. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material including 

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,731.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2420 $9,365.40

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 20 $1,516.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Soil Dispersant 1490 Soil Amendment (tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP), sodium 

tripolyphosphate (STPP), or soda ash or approved equivalent)

Ton $460.98 6.53 $3,010.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 1178.19 $1,178.19

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #62 - Bentonite Treatment - Uncovered

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with bentonite, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation includes 

incorporation of the bentonite with the soil under proper moisture conditions, compaction to the designed liner thickness. Practice implementation may require filter 

compatibility with the subgrade (graded filter or geotextile). Associated practice PS378, PS313.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. Soils are suitable for treatment with dispersants. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material 

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $199,159.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $123.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1613 $6,242.31

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 7 $217.98

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 5227 $191,046.85

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 1 $1.00

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #63 - Material haul < 1 mile

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with compacted clay, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation 

includes compaction of the soil liner under proper moisture conditions to the designed liner thickness, and soil cover to protect the finished liner. Material haul < 1 mile. 

Associated practices include PS378, PS313, & other waste water impoundments.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. An adequate quantity of soil suitable for constructing a clay liner without amendments is available 

at an econical haul distance. Material haul < 1 mile. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material (including

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,445.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2420 $9,365.40

Excavation, clay, large equipment, 1217

1500 ft

Bulk excavation of clay with scrapers with average haul distance of 1500 

feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $5.67 1613 $9,145.71

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 807 $2,856.78

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #64 - Material haul > 1 mile

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with compacted clay, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation 

includes compaction of the soil liner under proper moisture conditions to the designed liner thickness, and protection of the finished liner. Material haul > 1 mile. 

Associated practices include PS378, PS313, & other waste water impoundments.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. An adequate quantity of soil suitable for constructing a clay liner without amendments is available 

at an economical haul distance. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material (including

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $31,959.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2420 $9,365.40

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 20 $1,959.60

Excavation, clay, large equipment, 1217

1500 ft

Bulk excavation of clay with scrapers with average haul distance of 1500 

feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $5.67 1613 $9,145.71

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 807 $2,856.78

Hauling, bulk, highway truck 1615 Hauling of bulk earthfill, rockfill, waste or debris. One-way travel 

distance using fully loaded highway dump trucks (typically 16 CY or 20 

TN capacity). Includes equipment and labor for truck only. Does not 

include cost for loading truck.

Cubic Yard $0.35 8065 $2,822.75

Mile

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 20 $732.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #66 - Bentonite Treatment - Covered

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with bentonite, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation includes 

incorporation of the bentonite with the soil under proper moisture conditions, compaction to the designed liner thickness, and placement of soil cover over the treated 

liner. Practice implementation may require filter compatibility with the subgrade (graded filter or geotextile). Associated practice PS378, PS313.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. Soils are suitable for treatment with bentonite. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material (includes 

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 3,227.00

Scenario Total Cost: $205,405.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $63.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 3227 $12,488.49

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 7 $217.98

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 5227 $191,046.85

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 1 $1.00

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #83 - Use On-Site Material

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, using materials available on-site, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice 

implementation includes compaction of the subgrade and soil line under proper moisture conditions to the designed liner thickness using materials available at the 

construction site. Associated practices include PS378, PS313, and other waste water impoundments.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits without proper moisture and density control. An adequate quantity of soil suitable for constructing 

a clay liner without amendments is available on-site.

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material (including

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,739.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1613 $6,242.31

Excavation, clay, large equipment, 1219

150 ft

Bulk excavation of clay with dozer >100 HP with average push distance 

of 150 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $5.94 807 $4,793.58

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 520 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Soil Treatment

Scenario: #84 - Use On-Site Material with Soil Cover

Scenario Description:

Construction of a compacted soil liner, treated with compacted clay, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation 

includes compaction of the soil liner under proper moisture conditions to the designed liner thickness, and soil cover to protect the finished liner using materials available 

at the construction site. Associated practices include PS378, PS313, and other waste water impoundments.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. An adequate quantity of soil suitable for constructing a clay liner without amendments is available 

on-site.

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Liner Material (including

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,427.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1613 $6,242.31

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 807 $2,687.31

Excavation, clay, large equipment, 1219

150 ft

Bulk excavation of clay with dozer >100 HP with average push distance 

of 150 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $5.94 807 $4,793.58

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 521 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner

Scenario: #2 - Flexible Membrane - Uncovered with liner drainage or venting

Scenario Description:

Installation of a flexible geosynthetic membrane liner, uncovered, to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation 

includes a geotextile or soil cushion to protect the liner from subgrade damage, and liner drainage or venting. Associated practices include PS378 Pond, PS313 Waste 

Storage Facility.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and enviromental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments. 

Feature Measure: Surface area of Liner Material (incl

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $46,642.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Materials

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 2420 $18,053.20

Geonet 1778 Geosynthetic drainage liner, typically HDPE of 300 mil thickness. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $9.86 2420 $23,861.20
Practice: 521 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner

Scenario: #3 - Flexible Membrane - Covered without liner drainage or venting

Scenario Description:

Installation of a flexible geosynthetic membrane liner to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation includes 1 foot of 

soil cover for liner protection, and a geotextile or soil cushion to protect liner from subgrade damage. Associated practices include PS378 Pond, PS313 Waste Storage 

Facility.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and enviromental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments. 

Feature Measure: Surface area of Liner Material (incl

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,397.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 2420 $2,637.80

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 807 $3,123.09

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

Materials

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 2420 $18,053.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 521 - Pond Sealing or Lining, Geomembrane or Geosynthetic Clay Liner

Scenario: #4 - Flexible Membrane - Covered with liner drainage or venting

Scenario Description:

Installation of a flexible geosynthetic membrane liner to reduce seepage from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. Practice implementation includes 1 foot of 

soil cover for liner protection, a geotextile or soil cushion to protect liner from subgrade damage, and liner drainage or venting. Associated practices include PS378 Pond, 

PS313 Waste Storage Facility.

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits. 

After Situation:

Water conservation and enviromental protection provided by limiting seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments. 

Feature Measure: Surface area of Liner Material (incl

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 2,420.00

Scenario Total Cost: $50,071.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 807 $3,123.09

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Materials

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 2420 $18,053.20

Geonet 1778 Geosynthetic drainage liner, typically HDPE of 300 mil thickness. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $9.86 2420 $23,861.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 522 - Pond Sealing or Lining - Concrete

Scenario: #12 - Concrete liner, reinforced

Scenario Description:

Construction of a reinforced concrete liner to reduce seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundment structures. A reinforced concrete liner is intended to be 

used where liquid tightness is required. Practice implementation may require filter compatibility with the subgrade (graded filter or geotextile). Associated Practices: Pond 

(378), Waste Storage Facility (313), Fence (382), Critical Area Planting (342), Nutrient Management (590), Waste Transfer (634), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Roofs 

and Covers (367), and Waste Separation Facility (632), Waste Treatment (629), Subsurface Drain (606), Underground Outlet (620), Pumping Plant (533).

Before Situation:

In-place soils at site exhibit seepage rates in excess of acceptable limits and construction of a compacted soil liner is not feasible with available soils.

After Situation:

Water conservation and environmental protection provided by reducing seepage losses from ponds or waste storage impoundments.

Feature Measure: Volume of Concrete Liner

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 347.00

Scenario Total Cost: $195,757.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $564.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 347 $183,021.68

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 278 $1,075.86

Truck, Concrete Pump 1211 Concrete pump, normally truck mounted. Use this item in association 

with other concrete components when job requires placement by other 

than normal chutes. Include drive and setup time in quantity; 

therefore, do not include mobilization. Includes equipment and 

operator.

Hours $160.01 12 $1,920.12

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 278 $5,682.32

Property/Safety Signs 293 Plastic fence safety or property sign, printed on both sides with 6 predrilled holes for hanging or nailing. 7.5 x 4.75 inch. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.09 2 $4.18

Structural steel tubing, 2 in. 1120

diameter

Structural steel tubing, 2 inch diameter, 1/8 inch wall thickness, 

materials only

Feet $4.49 15 $67.35

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 in x 1614

6 in

Waterstop, PVC, ribbed, 3/16 inch thick by 6 inches wide. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Feet $5.51 566 $3,118.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 527 - Sinkhole Treatment

Scenario: #8 - Linear Opening

Scenario Description:

Installing a sinkhole protection cap on a sinkhole with a linear opening. The area around a sinkhole may be unstable and slippage or subsidence may occur. Sinkholes 

present fall hazards to people and livestock. Sinkholes are direct conduits to groundwater. Nutrient or chemical laden runoff may flow directly into sinkholes polluting 

groundwater. Sinkholes are routinely used for waste pits by landowners. Critical Area Planting (342), Fence (382), Vertical Drain (630), Obstruction Removal (500) & Filter 

Strips (393) may be associated practices for this scenario.

Before Situation:

Open sinkhole poses threat to people, livestock, & wildlife. Absence of buffer allows nutrients and chemicals to flow into the open sinkhole untreated. Trash & Debris 

have accumulated in the sinkhole from years of use as a waste pit. 'Typical Sinkhole treated is 25' length and 10' top width, depth varies

After Situation:

Debris removed and properly disposed of off site. The sinkhole protection cap installation resolves the safety issue for people, livestock, & wildlife. The open crevice is 

filled with porous material so as not to disrupt the hydrology of the karst system while filtering runoff. Typical Sinkhole treated is 25' length and 10' top width, depth 

varies.

Feature Measure: LF of opening

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,877.11

Scenario Cost/Unit: $435.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 6 $3,580.26

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 80 $87.20

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 95 $230.85

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 50 $166.50

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 8 $1,054.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 12 $439.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 30 $645.30

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 15 $557.25

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 10 $1,370.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 333.8 $791.11

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 527 - Sinkhole Treatment

Scenario: #9 - Circular Opening

Scenario Description:

Installing a sinkhole protection cap on a circular sinkhole with a vertical opening. The area around a sinkhole may be unstable and slippage or subsidence may occur. 

Sinkholes present fall hazards to people and livestock. Sinkholes are direct conduits to groundwater. Nutrient or chemical laden runoff may flow directly into sinkholes 

polluting groundwater. Sinkholes are routinely used for waste pits by landowners. Critical Area Planting (342), Fence (382), Vertical Drain (630), Obstruction Removal (500) 

& Filter Strips (393) may be associated practices for this scenario.

Before Situation:

Open sinkhole poses threat to people, livestock, & wildlife. Absence of buffer allows nutrients and chemicals to flow into the open sinkhole untreated. Trash & Debris 

have accumulated in the sinkhole from years of use as a waste pit. Typical Sinkhole treated is 30' Dia & 8' depth

After Situation:

Debris removed and properly disposed of off site. The sinkhole protection cap installation resolves the safety issue for people, livestock, & wildlife. The sinkhole is filled 

with porous material so as not to disrupt the hydrology of the karst system while filtering runoff. 

Feature Measure: SF of opening

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,570.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 10 $5,967.10

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 140 $152.60

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 130 $315.90

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 70 $233.10

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 14 $512.40

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 36 $774.36

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 18 $668.70

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 6 $822.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 166.9 $395.55
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #1 - Small Ranch Unit

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system on small pasture less than 320 acres that will enhance rangeland health and ecosystem function as well as optimize 

efficiency and economic return through monitoring (ex:photo points, stubble height after grazing, etc) and record keeping. Beginning ranchers implementing an initial 

grazing system on small ranchettes.

Before Situation:

Current grazing system on a small ranch unit (<320 acres) exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants and such use may have a negative impact on rangeland 

health, as well as soil and water resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management 

changes. There is currently no monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in a way that enhances rangeland 

health and function through protection of sensitive areas, and efficient harvest of forage resources. Grazing system success will be evaluated through short term 

monitoring.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,574.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 60 $1,098.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 26 $1,310.40
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #2 - Range, 3-6 Pastures

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system using a minimum of 3, and not more than 6, pastures in rotation that will enhance rangeland health and ecosystem 

function as well as optimize efficiency and economic return through monitoring (ex: trend, composition, production, etc), and record keeping. 

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants, and such use may have a negative impact on rangeland health, as well as soil and water 

resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no 

monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in rotation in a way that enhances 

rangeland health and function through proper rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, proper utilization, and efficient harvest of forage resources. 

Grazing system success will be evaluated through long term monitoring.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,221.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 100 $1,830.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 50 $1,194.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 80 $4,032.00
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #3 - Range, 7 or More Pastures

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system, using a minimum of 7 pastures in rotation, that will enhance rangeland health and ecosystem function, as well as optimize 

efficiency and economic return through monitoring (ex: trend, composition, production, etc), and record keeping. 

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants and such use may have a negative impact on rangeland health, as well as soil and water 

resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no 

monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in rotation in a way that enhances 

rangeland health and function through proper rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, proper utilization, and efficient harvest of forage resources. 

Grazing system success will be evaluated through long term monitoring.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,622.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 150 $2,745.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 70 $1,671.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 100 $5,040.00
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #5 - Grazing Lands, 30-73% Rest

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system that will enhance pasture condition and ecosystem function by providing rest to the pastures during the growing season 

(30-73% rest) as well as optimize efficiency and economic return through monitoring (ex: trend, composition, production, etc), record keeping. 

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants and such use may have a negative impact on pasture condition, as well as soil and water 

resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no 

monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in a way that enhances pasture 

condition and function through proper rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, proper utilization, and efficient harvest of forage resources. Grazing 

system success will be evaluated through long term monitoring.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,835.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 26 $475.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 26 $1,310.40
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #6 - Grazing Lands, Greater than 73% Rest

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system that will enhance pasture condition and ecosystem function by providing maximum rest to the pastures during the growing 

season (greater than 73% rest) as well as optimize efficiency and economic return through monitoring (ex: trend, composition, production, etc), record keeping. 

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants and such use may have a negative impact on pasture condition, as well as soil and water 

resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no 

monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in a way that enhances pasture 

condition and function through proper rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, proper utilization, and efficient harvest of forage resources. Grazing 

system success will be evaluated through long term monitoring.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,408.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 26 $475.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 26 $1,310.40
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #7 - Habitat Mgt

Scenario Description:

Development and implementation of a grazing schedule that will create, restore, and/or enhance habitat components for identified wildlife species of concern.

Before Situation:

Wildlife cover, shelter, food, water and movement are limited due to grazing land condition. Plant health and vigor are negatively impacted by one or more of the 

following: poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality may be impacted by increased runoff and erosion. In 

addition, reduced vegetative cover increases the opportunity for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

A grazing system is altered and/or enhanced to benefit habitat for targeted wildlife species. Additional benefits include improved rangeland and/or pasture health, 

adequate rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, improved water quality and reduced risk of invasive or noxious weed encroachment. In order to achieve 

this, implementation of a rest/rotation or deferred grazing system will be required. A portion not to exceed 20% of the grazed acres may be deferred during periods of 

critical wildlife use.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,782.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $17.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 26 $475.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 26 $829.92

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 26 $1,310.40
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #8 - Livestock Deferment (FI)

Scenario Description:

Defer livestock grazing for a 12 month period to allow for regrowth and recovery to occur on a 40 acre grazed range unit where a plant or animal resource concerns exists. 

Complete livestock exclusion is required during the specified time period. Deferment may be necessary on whole units or portions of units as determined by appropriate 

assessment.

Before Situation:

Inadequate plant cover exists for nesting, brooding, and/or winter habitat for upland birds on grazing/wildlife lands. Inadequate plant growth or regrowth after livestock 

use does not permit the use by wildlife and/or creates a plant condition resource concern. 

After Situation:

Adequte cover exists after deferment which provides adequate cover for wildlife or plant growth/recovery.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,300.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 38 $1,204.60

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #10 - Cover Crop/Aftermath

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system using multiple fields of cover crops or cover crops in combination with crop aftermath. Use of these crop fields will provide 

additional forage and relieve pressure on rangeland fields, thereby enhancing rangeland health and ecosystem function as well as optimizing efficiency and economic 

return through monitoring (ex: trend, composition, production, etc), and record keeping. This grazing will typically occur in the fall. If the grazing occurs on cover crop 

that is being used as part of pollinator system the field can not be grazed until after the honey bees are moved from the area which is usually early September.

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants as well as soil and water resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of 

production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place, as well as utilizing the cover crops to a level that will 

continue to improve the soil health of the cropland. Livestock are managed in rotation in a way that enhances soil health and function through proper use and 

distribution, and efficient harvest of forage resources. Grazing system success will be evaluated through monitoring.

Feature Measure: Acres of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,635.49

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 35 $640.50

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 17.5 $417.90

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 28 $1,411.20
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #24 - Grazing Management System, Standard

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system that will enhance rangeland health and ecosystem function as well as optimize efficiency and economic return through 

monitoring (ex:photo points, stubble height after grazing, etc) & record keeping. 

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants and such use may have a negative impact on rangeland health, as well as soil and water 

resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no 

monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in a way that enhances rangeland 

health and function through protection of sensitive areas, and efficient harvest of forage resources. Grazing system success will be evaluated through short term 

monitoring.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,989.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 30 $957.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #30 - Range Long Term Monitoring

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of a grazing system that will enhance rangeland health and ecosystem function as well as optimize efficiency and economic return through 

monitoring (ex: trend, composition, production, etc), record keeping. 

Before Situation:

Current grazing system exhibits undesirable and inefficient use of forage plants and such use may have a negative impact on rangeland health, as well as soil and water 

resources. Stocking rates are likely higher than the current level of production and efficiency of use can support without management changes. There is currently no 

monitoring plan in place to evaluate change on the landscape.

After Situation:

Prescribed grazing system is designed to protect the health and vigor of the plant communities that are in place. Livestock are managed in a way that enhances rangeland 

health and function through proper rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, proper utilization, and efficient harvest of forage resources. Grazing system 

success will be evaluated through long term monitoring.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,200.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 3 $349.17

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 100 $1,830.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 2 $99.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 240 $5,731.20

Materials

Nutritional Balance Analyzer, 1127

fecal sample analysis only

NIRS fecal analysis, animal performance report. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $46.07 6 $276.42
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #31 - Habitat Mgt. Long Term Monitoring

Scenario Description:

Development and implementation of a grazing schedule that will enhance habitat components for the identified wildlife species of concern.

Before Situation:

Wildlife cover, shelter, food, water and movement are limited due to grazingland condition. Plant health and vigor are negatively impacted by one or more of the 

following: poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. Water quality may be impacted by increased runoff and erosion. In 

addition reduced vegetative cover increases the opportunity for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

A grazing system is altered and/or enhanced to benefit habitat for targeted wildlife species. Additional benefits include improved rangeland and/or pasture health, 

adequate rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, improved water quality and reduced risk of invasive or noxious weed encroachment. In order to achieve 

this, implementation of a rest/rotation or deferred grazing system will be required. A portion of the acres (20% for Sage Grouse Initiative) will be deferred during periods 

of critical wildlife use.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,836.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 3 $349.17

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 150 $2,745.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 2 $99.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 200 $4,776.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 40 $4,313.60
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #39 - Livestock Deferment (FI) High Production Sites

Scenario Description:

Defer livestock grazing for a 12 month period to allow for regrowth and recovery to occur on a 40 acre grazed range unit where a plant or animal resource concerns exists. 

Complete livestock exclusion is required during the specified time period. Deferment may be necessary on whole units or portions of units as determined by appropriate 

assessment.

Before Situation:

Inadequate plant cover exists for nesting, brooding, and/or winter habitat for upland birds on grazing/wildlife lands. Inadequate plant growth or regrowth after livestock 

use does not permit the use by wildlife and/or creates a plant condition resource concern.

After Situation:

Adequate cover exists after deferment which provides adequate cover for wildlife or plant growth/recovery.

Feature Measure: Acres of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,680.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 50 $1,585.00

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52
Practice: 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Scenario: #55 - Prescribed Grazing Management for 5 Acres or less

Scenario Description:

Plan, implement and monitor a rotational grazing systgem that will enhance and maintain ecosystem function as well as optimize efficiency and economic return on small 

farm grazing lands.

Before Situation:

Area is degraded due to inappropriate timing, duration, frequency and intensity of animal utilization resulting in impaired ecosystem functions. Overuse and degradation 

of the soil and plant resources are occuriing and animal health is compromised.

After Situation:

Planned rotational movement of animals meet ecosystem functions due to proper timing, duration, frequency and intensity of animal utilization. Monitoring is showing 

that animals are in balance with available forage resources and ecological function and processes for soil, water and plant resources are being improved.

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,026.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $205.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 28 $668.64
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #1 - Irrigation, Modify Pump

Scenario Description:

This scenario includes the modification and/or replacement of vertical turbine pumps in conjunction with an irrigation conversion practice to ensure energy and water 

savings are realized. This includes an inventory or evaluation of existing pump performance data. This scenario includes all materials, equipment and labor to test and 

repair the inner column of the pump assembly and rebowling. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; 

Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, 

Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater 

Recovery; and 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

160 acres of cropland is being irrigated with a less efficient system than a properly designed low pressure center pivot or linear move system.

After Situation:

Irrigation system on 160 acres of cropland has been converted to use a more efficient method of irrigation. The new pump and irrigation delivery are designed as a system 

that maximizes efficiency in energy and water use.

Feature Measure: Number of pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $38,695.87

Scenario Cost/Unit: $38,695.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Aerial lift, telescoping bucket 1893 Aerial lift, bucket truck or cherry picker, typical 40' boom. Equipment 

only.

Hours $46.14 16 $738.24

Pump, Turbine, Cast Iron, fixed 2148

cost portion

Fixed cost portion of cast iron turbine pump with appurtenances. 

Includes pump, appurtenances, and labor to install.

Each $13,808.46 1 $13,808.46

Pump, Turbine, Cast Iron, variable 2149

cost portion

Variable cost portion of cast iron turbine pump with appurtenances. 

Includes pump, appurtenances, and labor to install.

Gallons per $7.19 800 $5,752.00

Minute

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Pump, Bowl replacement, 30 to 1984

100 HP

Includes all material and shop labor to replace/service the entire set of 

bowls for a vertical turbine pump, install new bowls as necessary, and 

all appurtenances and materials to connect to the existing well column. 

Typical of 100 to 300 feet of column depth, 400 to 800 gpm discharge at 

30 to 50 psi.?? ??Does not include labor and equipment to remove and 

install the assembled pump from the well.

Horsepower $198.31 75 $14,873.25

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #2 - Irrigation, Submersible or Booster

Scenario Description:

This scenario includes the installation of a submersible pump and motor in a new or existing active well, or from surface water source, when done in conjunction with an 

irrigation conversion practice to ensure energy and water savings are realized. This scenario also includes the installation of an electric-powered centrifugal pump serving 

multiple pump systems for pressurizing a medium-sized (600 gpm and 50 psi) sprinkler system. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface 

and ground waters; insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 

441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management

Before Situation:

160 acres of cropland is being irrigated with a less efficient system than a center pivot or linear move system with low pressure nozzles and is being supplied by a pump 

designed for the existing system.

After Situation:

160 acres of cropland are irrigated with an irrigation system converted to a system with more efficient distribution, and the pump modified to maximize water and energy 

savings.

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,237.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13,237.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Aerial lift, telescoping bucket 1893 Aerial lift, bucket truck or cherry picker, typical 40' boom. Equipment 

only.

Hours $46.14 8 $369.12

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1011

motor, fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $3,727.95 1 $3,727.95

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1012

motor, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the 

pump and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower 

for the pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed 

cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $252.77 30 $7,583.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #3 - Irrigation, Variable Frequency Drive

Scenario Description:

Description: This is an installation of electrical and electronic components designed to vary the frequency of the voltage to vary the speed of an electric motor in an 

irrigation system. This directly affects pressure and flowrate. This would give the operator the flexibility to operate several systems separately or at the same time. 

Resource concerns: Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water; Inefficient energy use - Equipment and facilities and Farming/ranching practices and field 

operations. Associated Practices: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management.

Before Situation:

Standard electrical connection from electrical utility to pump motor. No capability to match pump output pressure and/or flowrate to field(s) need(s). Result is over/under 

pressure(s) and/or flow rate(s), possible hydraulic anomalies, energy loss, and or inefficient water application in the irrigation system.

After Situation:

VFD Modifications are implemented at the pump site to allow for varying the speed of electric motor to match the pressure and flow requirements for a center pivot 

irrigation system.

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,748.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,748.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Variable Speed Drive, 50 HP 1288 Variable speed drive for 50 Horsepower electric motor. Does not 

include motor. Materials only.

Horsepower $126.05 50 $6,302.50
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #4 - irrigation, Surface Water

Scenario Description:

This scenario includes the installation of an electric motor and pump with surface water (such as an irrigation canal) as the water source. This is done in conjunction with 

an irrigation conversion practice to ensure energy and water savings are realized. This scenario includes all materials, equipment and labor to install the pump and motor, 

including intake screens. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation 

water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; and 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Irrigation: 160 acres of cropland that is being irrigated under a less efficient system than a center pivot or linear move system with low pressure nozzles which is being 

serviced by a pump set up for the existing system. The existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly sized pump that prevents efficient water application 

resulting in water loss and high energy use.

After Situation:

Irrigation: 160 acres of cropland that has undergone an irrigation conversion practice to use a more efficient method of irrigation, including installation of a pumping plant 

with an irrigation canal as the water source. The properly designed and efficient pumping plant is installed, reducing energy use and improving irrigation efficiency.

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,813.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19,813.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1011

motor, fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $3,727.95 1 $3,727.95

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1012

motor, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the 

pump and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower 

for the pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed 

cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $252.77 30 $7,583.10

Pump intake screen, Linear, fixed 2069

cost portion

Fixed cost portion of linear fish intake pump screen including all 

adapters, o-rings, mounting tabs, and other accessories. This is the 

base cost for the system. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $836.19 1 $836.19

Pump intake screen, Linear, 2070

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of linear fish intake pump screen including all 

adapters, o-rings, mounting tabs, and other accessories. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Gallons per $5.18 900 $4,662.00

Minute

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #5 - Livestock, Manure Transfer

Scenario Description:

Description: Pump and accessories to move manure from storage location to manure distribution site/equipment. Part of a animal waste management system. Resource 

Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters. Associated Practices include: 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer

Before Situation:

Livestock facility that is not in compliance with federal and/or state regulations for animal feeding operations for handling livestock manure.

After Situation:

A manure transfer pump is installed as part of animal manure handling system. The typical installation includes a 15 hp chopper/screw pump installed at the facility with 

all necessary appurtenances and controls. Other pump types may be substituted as needed to transfer manure. Waste is properly managed in accordance federal and/or 

state regulations for animal feeding operations to address water quality concerns.

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $24,330.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24,330.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 5 $2,637.20

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 16 $2,108.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 16 $585.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1011

motor, fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $3,727.95 1 $3,727.95

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1012

motor, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the 

pump and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower 

for the pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed 

cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $252.77 15 $3,791.55

Manhole, 6 ft x 10 ft 2107 Precast Manhole with base and top delivered. 6 feet diameter x 10 feet 

depth. Materials, equipment and labor included.

Each $8,352.20 1 $8,352.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #6 - Livestock, w/ Pressure Tank, <= 0.5 hp

Scenario Description:

Descriptions: A submersible electric-powered pump, equal to or less than 0.5 HP is installed in a well or structure. It is used to provide water for livestock as part of a 

prescribed grazing system. Submersible pump installed to deliver stockwater from a well or waterbody to a watering facility. Installation includes drop pipe, pump, and all 

necessary appurtenances and includes a pressure tank. Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices include: 

374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 516 - Livestock Pipeline. 

Before Situation:

Grazing system that has an inadequate water supply for livestock.

After Situation:

Water is transferred at a sufficient rate and pressure to meet the herd requirements of a prescribed grazing system. Irrigation: A properly designed pump is installed to 

improve irrigation efficiency and reduce energy usage. 

Feature Measure: No. of Pumps Installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,108.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,108.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 0.5 $223.91

Pressure Tank, 40 gallon 1038 Pressure Tank, 40 gallon. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $428.69 1 $428.69

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 55.5 $205.91

Pumping Plant Pit, Concrete, 1200 1922

Gallon

Precast concrete septic tank structure, 1200 gal capacity, with access 

port and ladder. Materials only.

Each $1,761.67 0.25 $440.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #7 - Livestock, w/ Pressure Tank, Low HP

Scenario Description:

Descriptions: A submersible electric-powered pump (typically less than or equal to 1.5 HP) is installed in a well or structure. It is used to provide water for livestock as part 

of a prescribed grazing system. Submersible pump installed to deliver stockwater from a well or waterbody to a watering facility. Installation includes drop pipe, pump, 

and all necessary appurtenances and includes a pressure tank. Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices 

include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 516 - Livestock Pipeline.

Before Situation:

Grazing system has an inadequate water supply for livestock that prevents efficient use of pasture.

After Situation:

Properly designed water supply system including pump, pipeline, and watering facilities are in place. Water is delivered at a sufficient rate to meet the requirements of a 

prescribed grazing system.

Feature Measure: No. of Pumps Installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,187.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,187.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 1.5 $671.73

Pressure Tank, 80 gallon 1039 Pressure Tank, 80 gallon. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $585.66 1 $585.66

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 64.8 $240.41

Pumping Plant Pit, Concrete, 1200 1922

Gallon

Precast concrete septic tank structure, 1200 gal capacity, with access 

port and ladder. Materials only.

Each $1,761.67 0.5 $880.84

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #8 - Livestock, With Pressure Tank, High HP

Scenario Description:

A submersible electric-powered pump (greater than 1.5 hp) is installed in a well or structure. It is used to provide water for livestock as part of a prescribed grazing system. 

Submersible pump installed to deliver stockwater from a well or waterbody to a watering facility. Installation includes drop pipe, pump, and all necessary appurtenances 

and includes a pressure tank. Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy 

Improvement; 516 - Livestock Pipeline

Before Situation:

Grazing system has an inadequate water supply for livestock that prevents efficient use of pasture.

After Situation:

Properly designed water supply system including pump, pipeline, and watering facilities are in place. Water is delivered at a sufficient rate to meet the requirements of a 

prescribed grazing system.

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,005.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,002.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 2 $895.64

Pressure Tank, 80 gallon 1039 Pressure Tank, 80 gallon. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $585.66 1 $585.66

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 74 $274.54

Pumping Plant Pit, Concrete, 1200 1922

Gallon

Precast concrete septic tank structure, 1200 gal capacity, with access 

port and ladder. Materials only.

Each $1,761.67 0.25 $440.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #9 - Livestock, without Pressure Tank (HP)

Scenario Description:

Description: A 1 Hp submersible electric-powered pump is installed in a well or structure. It is used for watering livestock as part of a prescribed grazing system. 

Submersible pump installed to deliver stockwater from a well or waterbody to a watering facility. Installation includes drop pipe, pump, and all necessary appurtenances. 

Installation without pressure tank is typically used during warm seasons. Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water; Insufficient 

water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 516 - Livestock Pipeline. 

Before Situation:

Grazing system that has an inadequate water supply for livestock. 

After Situation:

Water is transferred at a sufficient rate and pressure to meet the requirements of a prescribed grazing system. Irrigation: A properly designed pump is installed to 

improve irrigation efficiency and reduce energy usage. 

Feature Measure: Pump Power Required

Scenario Unit: Horsepower

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,705.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,705.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 1 $447.82

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 55.5 $205.91
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #10 - Windmill-Powered Pump - NP Region

Scenario Description:

Description: A windmill is installed in order to supply a reliable water source for livestock and/or wildlife. The windmill includes the tower, concrete footings, wheel blade 

unit, sucker rod, down pipe, gear box, pump, plumbing, and well head protection concrete pad. The typical scenario will be a windmill system with a 8 ft diameter mill and 

27-foot tower which is pumping from a 100-foot well. As a result of installing this windmill, resource concerns of inadequate stock water, plant establishment, growth, 

productivity, health, and vigor, and water quantity can be addressed. Resource Concerns: Insufficient stockwater. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy 

Improvement; 516 - Livestock Pipeline.

Before Situation:

In a rangeland or pasture setting, a reliable source of water for livestock is not available, or the spacing between water sources is such that grazing distribution and plant 

health are adversely impacted.

After Situation:

A windmill, will be installed over a well that is located to provide a reliable source of livestock water at the rate of at least 2 gpm, to facilitate proper grazing distribution 

and improved plant health. To increase reliability, water is pumped into a storage tank to provide a given number of days of supply. Installation includes the footings, 

wellhead protection concrete pad, tower, gear box, sail, sucker rod, down hole accessories, and a short outlet pipe to a storage tank.

Feature Measure: Windmill Units

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,451.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,451.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Windmill, 6 or 8 ft. fan diameter 1035 Includes materials costs for windmill head and 27 foot tower. Each $6,406.76 1 $6,406.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #11 - Solar-Powered Pump, 0.5 hp

Scenario Description:

Description: The typical scenario assumes installation of a submersible solar-powered pump in a well or a live stream. The installation includes the pump, wiring, drop 

pipe, solar panels, mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Grazing - Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced 

erosion. Irrigation - energy consumption will be reduced and the increased pressure and flow rates will improve irrigation efficiency. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

stockwater. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 382 - Fence; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection; and, 614 - 

Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Inadequate supply or location of water for a prescribed grazing system. Eroded stream banks and degraded water quality due to livestock access to stream. Cattle are not 

well-distributed because of remote water location.

After Situation:

The typical scenario assumes installation of a 373-watt photovoltaic (PV) panel, capable of operating a 1/2 Hp (0.5 Hp) solar-powered submersible pump in a well or other 

water source (Notes: 1) A PV panel is rated under standard and ideal conditions which will most likely not be replicated in the field; 2) 1 Hp is defined as 746 watts; 3) It is 

reasonable to expect a 0.5 Hp solar-powered submersible pump to deliver about 3 gpm and develop a pressure at the pump outlet of about 20 psi.). The installation 

includes the pump, wiring, pipeline in the well, solar panels, frame mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Water will be pumped to pressurize the Livestock Pipeline 

(516). Grazing - Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced erosion. Grazing has potential to be well distributed. 

Feature Measure: Each Pumping Plant

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,258.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,258.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 37 $137.27

Solar Pumping System, Fixed Cost 2495

Portion

Fixed cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion is a 

base cost for a complete system including the photovoltaic panels, 

pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, service drop, etc., 

and is not dependant on KiloWatt. The total cost will include this fixed 

cost plus a variable cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Each $3,501.26 1 $3,501.26

Solar Pumping System, Variable 2496

Cost Portion

Variable cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion 

IS dependent upon the total kilowatts of the photovoltaic panels, but 

also includes the pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, 

service drop, etc. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a 

fixed cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Kilowatt $3,962.22 0.5 $1,981.11
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #12 - Solar-Powered Pump 1hp

Scenario Description:

Description: The typical scenario assumes installation of a submersible solar-powered pump in a well or a live stream. The installation includes the pump, wiring, drop 

pipe, solar panels, mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Grazing - Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced 

erosion. Irrigation - energy consumption will be reduced and the increased pressure and flow rates will improve irrigation efficiency. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

stockwater. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 382 - Fence; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection; and, 614 - 

Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Inadequate supply or location of water for a prescribed grazing system. Eroded stream banks and degraded water quality due to livestock access to stream. Cattle are not 

well-distributed because of remote water location.

After Situation:

The typical scenario assumes installation of a photovoltaic (PV) panel, capable of operating a solar-powered submersible pump in a well or other water source. The 

installation includes the pump, wiring, pipeline in the well, solar panels, frame mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Water will be pumped to a Livestock Pipeline 

(516). Grazing - Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced erosion. Grazing has potential to be well distributed.

Feature Measure: Each Pumping Plant

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,376.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,376.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 74 $274.54

Solar Pumping System, Fixed Cost 2495

Portion

Fixed cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion is a 

base cost for a complete system including the photovoltaic panels, 

pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, service drop, etc., 

and is not dependant on KiloWatt. The total cost will include this fixed 

cost plus a variable cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Each $3,501.26 1 $3,501.26

Solar Pumping System, Variable 2496

Cost Portion

Variable cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion 

IS dependent upon the total kilowatts of the photovoltaic panels, but 

also includes the pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, 

service drop, etc. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a 

fixed cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Kilowatt $3,962.22 1 $3,962.22
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #13 - Solar-Powered Pump, 2 hp

Scenario Description:

Description: The typical scenario assumes installation of a submersible solar-powered pump in a well or a live stream. The installation includes the pump, wiring, drop 

pipe, solar panels, mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Grazing - Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced 

erosion. Irrigation - energy consumption will be reduced and the increased pressure and flow rates will improve irrigation efficiency. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

stockwater. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 382 - Fence; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection; and, 614 - 

Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Inadequate supply or location of water for a prescribed grazing system. Eroded stream banks and degraded water quality due to livestock access to stream. Cattle are not 

well-distributed because of remote water location.

After Situation:

The typical scenario assumes installation of a 1.5-kW photovoltaic (PV) panel, capable of operating a 2 Hp solar-powered submersible pump in a well or other water source 

(Notes: 1) A PV panel is rated under standard and ideal conditions which will most likely not be replicated in the field; 2) 1 Hp is defined as 746 watts; 3) It is reasonable to 

expect a 2 Hp solar-powered submersible pump to deliver about 3 gpm and develop a pressure at the pump outlet of about 20 psi.). The installation includes the pump, 

wiring, pipeline in the well, solar panels, frame mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Water will be pumped to pressurize the Livestock Pipeline (516). Grazing - 

Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced erosion. Grazing has potential to be well distributed. 

Feature Measure: Each Pumping Plant

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,475.91

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,475.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 111 $411.81

Solar Pumping System, Fixed Cost 2495

Portion

Fixed cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion is a 

base cost for a complete system including the photovoltaic panels, 

pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, service drop, etc., 

and is not dependant on KiloWatt. The total cost will include this fixed 

cost plus a variable cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Each $3,501.26 1 $3,501.26

Solar Pumping System, Variable 2496

Cost Portion

Variable cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion 

IS dependent upon the total kilowatts of the photovoltaic panels, but 

also includes the pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, 

service drop, etc. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a 

fixed cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Kilowatt $3,962.22 2 $7,924.44
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #14 - Livestock, Variable Frequency Drive

Scenario Description:

Description: This is an installation of electrical and electronic components designed to vary the frequency of the voltage to vary the speed of an electric motor in a 

livestock watering system to provide a constant pressure and flow rate. This would give the operator the flexibility to operate several systems separately or at the same 

time. Resource concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water and distribution. Associated Practices: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 

516 - Livestock Pipeline; 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Standard electrical connection from electrical utility to pump motor. No capability to match pump output pressure and/or flowrate to livestock needs. Result is over/under 

pressure(s) and/or flow rate(s), possible hydraulic anomalies, energy loss, and or inefficient water application in the irrigation system.

After Situation:

A VFDis installed at the pump site to vary the speed of a submersible electric motor to match the pressure and flow requirements for a livestock watering system. 

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,698.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,698.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 16 $1,725.44

Materials

Pump, motor and variable 1016

frequency drive, fixed cost 

portion

Fixed cost portion of the Pump: Pump, motor and variable frequency 

drive. This portion is a base cost for all Pump: Pump, motor and variable 

frequency drive and is not dependent on horsepower. The total cost of 

any Pump will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed pump and variable frequency drive will include the motor 

and controls. This cost will include materials and shipping only.

Each $3,860.76 1 $3,860.76

Pump, motor and variable 1017

frequency drive, variable cost 

portion

Variable cost portion of the Pump: Pump, motor and variable frequency 

drive. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the Pump: 

Pump, motor and variable frequency drive. The total cost will include 

this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed pump and 

variable frequency drive will include the motor and controls. This cost 

will include materials and shipping only.

Horsepower $365.13 2 $730.26
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #86 - Irrigation, Surface Water with Fish Screen

Scenario Description:

This scenario includes the installation of an electric motor and pump with surface water (such as an irrigation canal or a river) as the water source. This is done in 

conjunction with an irrigation conversion practice to ensure energy and water savings are realized. This scenario includes all materials, equipment and labor to install the 

pump and motor, including intake screens to meet T&E requirements. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; 

Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation 

System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 447 - Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery; and 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Irrigation: 220 acres of cropland (multiple pivots) that is being irrigated under a less efficient system than a center pivot or linear move system with low pressure nozzles 

which is being serviced by a pump set up for the existing system. The existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly sized pump that prevents efficient water 

application resulting in water loss and high energy use and does not meet T&E requirements.

After Situation:

Irrigation: 220 acres of cropland(multiple pivots) that has undergone an irrigation conversion practice to use a more efficient method of irrigation, including installation of 

a pumping plant with an irrigation canal or river as the water source. The properly designed and efficient pumping plant is installed, reducing energy use and improving 

irrigation efficiency and will meet T&E requirements.

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $32,577.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32,577.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Pump, > 30 HP, pump and motor, 1013

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $6,467.67 1 $6,467.67

Pump, >30 HP, Pump and motor, 1014

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed cost 

portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $258.92 50 $12,946.00

Pump intake screen, Linear, fixed 2069

cost portion

Fixed cost portion of linear fish intake pump screen including all 

adapters, o-rings, mounting tabs, and other accessories. This is the 

base cost for the system. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $836.19 1 $836.19

Pump intake screen, Linear, 2070

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of linear fish intake pump screen including all 

adapters, o-rings, mounting tabs, and other accessories. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Gallons per $5.18 1800 $9,324.00

Minute

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #95 - Photovoltaic-Powered Pump, <4 kW

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario assumes installation of a submersible solar-powered pump in a well or a live stream. The installation includes the pump, wiring, drop pipe, solar 

panels, mounts, inverter, and all appurtenances. Note: It is generally not advisable to use a storage battery for a number of reasons. A storage tank is generally the most 

efficient method to store energy. Grazing - Livestock exclusion from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced erosion. Irrigation - energy 

consumption will be reduced and the increased pressure and flow rates will improve irrigation efficiency. Resource Concerns: Insufficient stockwater. Associated 

Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 382 - Fence; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; 561 - Heavy Use Area 

Protection; and, 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Livestock: Inadequate supply or location of water for a prescribed grazing system. Eroded stream banks and degraded water quality due to livestock access to stream. 

Cattle are not well-distributed because of remote water location. Irrigation: Pressure and flow rate is insufficient for uniform irrigation.

After Situation:

The typical scenario assumes installation of 1 kilowatt of photovoltaic (PV) panels, capable of operating a 1 horsepower solar-powered submersible pump in a well or other 

water source (Notes: 1) A PV panel is rated under standard and ideal conditions which will most likely not be replicated in the field; 2) 1 Horsepower is defined as 0.746 

kilowatts.. The installation includes the pump, wiring, pipeline in the well, solar panels, frame mounts, controller, and all appurtenances. Water will be pumped to an 

existing storage tank at a higher elevation from which it will be used to pressurize the Livestock Pipeline (516) or Irrigation Pipeline (430). Grazing - Livestock exclusion 

from surface water will result in improved surface water quality and reduced erosion. Grazing has potential to be well distributed. Irrigation: Improved pressure and flow 

rate will improve irrigation efficiency.

Feature Measure: Pumping plant photovoltaic power 

Scenario Unit: Kilowatt

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,061.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,061.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Solar Pumping System, Fixed Cost 2495

Portion

Fixed cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion is a 

base cost for a complete system including the photovoltaic panels, 

pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, service drop, etc., 

and is not dependant on KiloWatt. The total cost will include this fixed 

cost plus a variable cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Each $3,501.26 1 $3,501.26

Solar Pumping System, Variable 2496

Cost Portion

Variable cost portion of a solar powered pumping system. This portion 

IS dependent upon the total kilowatts of the photovoltaic panels, but 

also includes the pumping plant, support braces, electric controllers, 

service drop, etc. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a 

fixed cost portion. Includes the cost of materials only.

Kilowatt $3,962.22 1 $3,962.22
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #187 - Electric-Powered Pump <= 5 Hp

Scenario Description:

A 1 Hp submersible electric-powered pump is installed in a well or structure; or a close-coupled 1 Hp electric-powered centrifugal pump is mounted on a platform. It is 

used for watering livestock as part of a prescribed grazing system; or for pressurizing a small irrigation system; or for transferring liquid waste in a waste transfer system. 

Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water; Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient 

water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, 

Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; and 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Livestock: The present gravity flow system is inadequate to provide the proper flow rate for a prescribed grazing system. Irrigation: Available water is at an insufficient 

pressure to allow for even distribution of water. Waste Transfer: Contaminated water needs to be moved to a containment facility.

After Situation:

Livestock: Water is transferred at a sufficient rate and pressure to meet the requirements of a prescribed grazing system. Irrigation: A properly designed pump is installed 

to improve irrigation efficiency and reduce energy usage. Waste Transfer: Liquid wastes that have been collected through a waste transfer system are now efficiently 

transferred to an appropriate treatment or storage facility.

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 2.50

Scenario Total Cost: $3,803.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,521.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 1 $527.44

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 2.5 $1,119.55
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #188 - Electric-Powered Pump <= 5 HP with Pressure Tank

Scenario Description:

A 1 Hp submersible electric-powered pump is installed in a well or structure; or a close-coupled 1 Hp electric-powered centrifugal pump is mounted on a platform. It is 

used for watering livestock as part of a prescribed grazing system; or for pressurizing a small irrigation system. Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - 

Inadequate livestock water; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation 

Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 516 - Livestock Pipeline.

Before Situation:

Livestock: The present gravity flow system is inadequate to provide the proper flow rate for a prescribed grazing system. Irrigation: Available water is at an insufficient 

pressure to allow for even distribution of water. 

After Situation:

Livestock: Water is transferred at a sufficient rate and pressure to meet the requirements of a prescribed grazing system. Irrigation: A properly designed pump is installed 

to improve irrigation efficiency and reduce energy usage. 

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,164.67

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,164.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 0.25 $131.86

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 1 $447.82

Pressure Tank, 40 gallon 1038 Pressure Tank, 40 gallon. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $428.69 1 $428.69
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #189 - Electric-Powered Pump >5 HP<=30 hp

Scenario Description:

This is a close-coupled, 3-phase, 20 Hp electric-powered centrifugal pump mounted on a platform for pressurizing a medium-sized (500 gpm and 50 psi) sprinkler or large 

microirrigation (1,000 gpm and 30 psi) system or a large-sized surface irrigation system (1,500 gpm) or a medium-sized (1,000 gpm and 25 psi) waste transfer system. 

Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices 

include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; and 634 - Waste Transfer.

Before Situation:

Irrigation: An existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly sized pump that prevents efficient water application resulting in water loss and high energy 

use. 

After Situation:

Irrigation: A properly designed and efficient pumping plant is installed, reducing energy use and improving irrigation efficiency. 

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,057.91

Scenario Cost/Unit: $902.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 56 $1,433.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 56 $1,337.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 56 $2,822.40

Materials

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1011

motor, fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $3,727.95 1 $3,727.95

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1012

motor, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the 

pump and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower 

for the pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed 

cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $252.77 20 $5,055.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #190 - Electric-Powered Pump >30 hp <=75

Scenario Description:

This is a close-coupled, 3-phase, 50 Hp electric-powered centrifugal pump mounted on a platform for pressurizing a large-sized 1,000 gpm and 50 psi) sprinkler or very 

large microirrigation (2,000 gpm and 30 psi) system or a very large-sized surface irrigation system (3,000 gpm) or a large-sized (2,000 gpm and 25 psi) waste transfer 

system. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated 

Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 449 - Irrigation 

Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; and 634 - Waste Transfer.

Before Situation:

Irrigation: An existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly sized pump that prevents efficient water application resulting in water loss and high energy 

use. 

After Situation:

A properly designed and efficient pumping plant is installed, reducing energy use and improving irrigation efficiency

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $35,294.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $705.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 16 $1,068.96

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 56 $1,433.60

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 16 $314.24

Crane, truck mounted, hydraulic, 1734

12 ton

12 ton capacity truck mounted hydraulic crane. Equipment cost only. Hours $287.20 16 $4,595.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 56 $1,787.52

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 56 $2,822.40

Materials

Pump, > 30 HP, pump and motor, 1013

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $6,467.67 1 $6,467.67

Pump, >30 HP, Pump and motor, 1014

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed cost 

portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $258.92 50 $12,946.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #191 - Electric-Powered Pump >75

Scenario Description:

This is a close-coupled, 3-phase, 100 Hp electric-powered centrifugal pump mounted on a platform for pressurizing a very large (2500 gpm and 50 psi) sprinkler or a largesized surface irrigation system (3,000 gpm). Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient 

use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 442 - 

Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; and 634 - Waste Transfer.

Before Situation:

Irrigation: An existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly sized pump that prevents efficient water application resulting in water loss and high energy 

use. 

After Situation:

Irrigation: A properly designed and efficient pumping plant is installed, reducing energy use and improving irrigation efficiency. 

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $42,963.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $429.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 4 $2,109.76

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 56 $1,433.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 56 $1,337.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 12 $439.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 56 $2,822.40

Materials

Pump, > 30 HP, pump and motor, 1013

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $6,467.67 1 $6,467.67

Pump, >30 HP, Pump and motor, 1014

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed cost 

portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $258.92 100 $25,892.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #192 - Variable Frequency Drive

Scenario Description:

This is an installation of electrical and electronic components designed to vary the frequency of the voltage to an electric motor and thus the ability to vary the speed of 

the motor. This directly affects pressure and flowrate. This also could give the operator the flexibility to operate several systems separately or at the same time. Resource 

concerns: Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water; Inefficient energy use - Equipment and facilities and Farming/ranching practices and field 

operations. Associated Practices: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; and 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Standard electrical connection from electrical utility to pump motor. No capability to match pump output pressure and/or flowrate to field(s) need(s). Result is over/under 

pressure(s) and/or flow rate(s), possible hydraulic anomalies, energy loss, and or inefficient water application in the irrigation system.

After Situation:

VFD Modifications are implemented at the pump site to allow for varying the speed of a 40 Hp electric motor to match the pressure and flow requirements for a center 

pivot irrigation system. 

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,302.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $126.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Variable Speed Drive, 50 HP 1288 Variable speed drive for 50 Horsepower electric motor. Does not 

include motor. Materials only.

Horsepower $126.05 50 $6,302.50
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #193 - Internal Combustion-Powered Pump <= 50HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario supports installation of a pump in an existing irrigation system or installation of a new pump on cropland with a 30 BHP pump. Size of pump is 

determined by required GPM and pressure derived from a design for specific irrigation system on cropland. The combination of higher solids content and volume require a 

larger horse power pump. This liquid manure pump is used to transfer semi-solid manure from a small reception pit located either below a barnyard or at the end of a 

free-stall barn or scrape alley. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of 

irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation 

Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; and 614 - Watering 

Facility. 

Before Situation:

Irrigation: Either an existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly-sized pump that leads to inefficient water delivery resulting in high energy costs, or 

Waste Transfer: various types of semi-solid or liquid waste at the headquarters is uncollected causing surface and ground water issues.

After Situation:

Irrigation Setting: For irrigation system, a properly designed pump is installed, reducing water and energy usage. Waste Transfer Setting: For semi-solid or liquid waste, 

wastes that have been collected through a waste transfer system are now efficiently transferred to appropriate treatment or storage facilities or crop application. Due to 

topography, gravity transfer is not possible and a properly sized pump is needed to transfer waste as part of a waste transfer system.

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,325.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $877.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 1 $527.44

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Pump, < 50 HP, Pump & ICE 1027

power unit

Materials, labor, controls: < 50 HP Pump & ICE power unit Horsepower $716.63 30 $21,498.90

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #194 - Internal Combustion-Powered Pump > 50 to 70 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario supports installation of a pump in an existing irrigation system or installation of a new pump on cropland with a 60 BHP pump. Size of pump is 

determined by required GPM and pressure derived from a design for specific irrigation system on cropland. The combination of higher solids content and volume require a 

larger horse power pump. This liquid manure pump is used to transfer semi-solid manure from a small reception pit located either below a barnyard or at the end of a 

free-stall barn or scrape alley. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of 

irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation 

Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery; and 614 - Watering 

Facility. 

Before Situation:

Irrigation: Either an existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly-sized pump that leads to inefficient water delivery resulting in high energy costs, or 

Waste Transfer: various types of semi-solid or liquid waste at the headquarters is uncollected causing surface and ground water issues.

After Situation:

Irrigation Setting: For irrigation system, a properly designed pump is installed, reducing water and energy usage. Waste Transfer Setting: For semi-solid or liquid waste, 

wastes that have been collected through a waste transfer system are now efficiently transferred to appropriate treatment or storage facilities or crop application. Due to 

topography, gravity transfer is not possible and a properly sized pump is needed to transfer waste as part of a waste transfer system.

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $44,329.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $738.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 1 $527.44

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Pump, > 50 to 70 HP, Pump & ICE 1028

power unit

Materials, labor, controls: > 50 to 70 HP Pump & ICE power unit Horsepower $658.37 60 $39,502.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #195 - Internal Combustion-Powered Pump > 70 HP

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario supports replacement of a pump in an existing irrigation system or installation of a new pump on cropland that is 75 break HP pump or larger. Size of 

pump is determined by required GPM and pressure derived from a design for specific irrigation system on cropland. Scenario could also be used for a pump for silage 

leachate, barnyard runoff, and milk house waste (as part of a waste transfer system) at farm headquarters. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess 

nutrients in surface and ground waters; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 430 - 

Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Irrigation System, Microirrigation; 449 - Irrigation Water Management; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; 634 - Waste Transfer; and 614 - Watering 

Facility.

Before Situation:

Irrigation: Either an existing irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly-sized pump that leads to inefficient water delivery resulting in high energy costs, 

or Waste Transfer: various types of semi-solid or liquid waste at the headquarters is uncollected causing surface and ground water issues.

After Situation:

Irrigation Setting: For irrigation system, a properly designed pump is installed, reducing water and energy usage. Waste Transfer Setting: For semi-solid or liquid waste, 

wastes that have been collected through a waste transfer system are now efficiently transferred to appropriate treatment or storage facilities or crop application. Due to 

topography, gravity transfer is not possible and a properly sized pump is needed to transfer waste as part of a waste transfer system.

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $70,085.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $700.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Pump, > 70 HP, Pump & ICE 1029

power unit

Materials, labor, controls: > 70 HP Pump & ICE power unit Horsepower $638.95 100 $63,895.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #196 - Tractor Power Take Off (PTO) Pump

Scenario Description:

This scenario involves a PTO driven pump to either transfer water for an irrigation system from a Pond - 378 (includes backflow prevention as appropriate) to cropland or; 

to transfer semi-solid/ liquid manure (as part of a waste transfer system) at the farm headquarters from a Waste Storage Facility - 313, to an irrigation system or waste 

treatment facility. In both cases, a PTO driven pump is selected because the landowner has equipment available to supply power to the pump. Electricity is not readily 

available and/or a stationary engine is not a practical alternative. Resource Concerns: Water Quality degradation - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters; 

Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated Practices include: 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 442 - Irrigation System, Sprinkler; 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management; 590 - Nutrient Management; 378 - Pond; 313 - Waste Storage Facility; and 634 - Waste Transfer.

Before Situation:

Irrigation Setting: An existing surface irrigation system employs an inefficient, improperly sized pump that leads to inefficient water delivery resulting in high energy 

costs; Waste Transfer Setting: various types of semi-solid or liquid waste at the headquarters are uncollected causing surface and ground water issues. A transfer 

method for waste is needed. Due to topography, gravity transfer is not possible and a properly sized pump is needed to transfer waste as part of a waste transfer system.

After Situation:

Irrigation Setting: A properly designed PTO-driven pump is installed, to transfer water to an Irrigation Pipeline (430) or Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320). Waste Transfer 

Setting: Wastes that have been collected through a waste transfer system are now efficiently transferred from a Waste Storage Facility (313) to an appropriate treatment 

facility or to an irrigation system. The pump typically will move 2,000 gallons per minute and is portable so that it can be used at several locations.

Feature Measure: Pump Power Requirement

Scenario Unit: Brake Horse Power

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,113.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $168.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Pump, Ag Water PTO, 1,000 GPM 1923 Materials, labor, controls: Ag Water PTO Pump 1,000 GPM - 8 in. Each $7,460.92 1 $7,460.92
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #197 - Windmill-Powered Pump

Scenario Description:

A windmill is installed in order to supply a reliable water source for livestock and/or wildlife. The windmill includes the tower, concrete footings, wheel blade unit, sucker 

rod, down pipe, gear box, pump, plumbing, and well head protection concrete pad. The typical scenario will be a windmill system with a 10 ft diameter mill and 27-foot 

tower which is pumping from a 150-foot well. As a result of installing this windmill, resource concerns of inadequate stock water, plant establishment, growth, 

productivity, health, and vigor, and water quantity can be addressed. Resource Concerns: Insufficient stockwater.

Before Situation:

In a rangeland or pasture setting, a reliable source of water for livestock is not available, or the spacing between water sources is such that grazing distribution and plant 

health are adversely impacted.

After Situation:

A windmill, with a wheel ranging from 6' to 16' in diameter, will be installed over a well that is located to provide a reliable source of livestock water at the rate of at least 

2 gpm, to facilitate proper grazing distribution and improved plant health. To increase reliability, water is pumped into a storage tank to provide a given number of days of 

supply. Installation includes the footings, wellhead protection concrete pad, tower, gear box, sail, sucker rod, down hole accessories, and a short outlet pipe to a storage 

tank.

Feature Measure: Diameter of Mill Wheel

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,558.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,355.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Aerial lift, telescoping bucket 1893 Aerial lift, bucket truck or cherry picker, typical 40' boom. Equipment 

only.

Hours $46.14 8 $369.12

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Windmill, 10 ft. fan diameter 1036 Includes materials costs for windmill head and 27 foot tower Each $8,918.18 1 $8,918.18

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #198 - Water Ram Pump

Scenario Description:

A water ram is used to transfer water from a live stream to a Watering Facility (614) or small Irrigation Reservoir (436) utilizing the energy of moving water to transfer a 

portion of that water to a higher elevation. It is anchored to a small concrete pad. Bypass water (which could easily be 90% of the water diverted from the stream) is 

returned to the stream or transferred in a pipe, to a lower elevation tank (614 or 436), without erosion or impairment to water quality. In the livestock scenario, the 

objective is to provide water to the cattle outside of a live stream or other natural water source thereby eliminating a significant erosion situation while also improving 

water quality. The cattle thus have access to drinking water without having to enter the stream. The water ram may need to be fenced for protection from curious 

bovines. While it is generally not considered practical for irrigation, in the irrigation scenario, water can be retrieved from a stream and stored in a small 436 to provide 

water for a very small (0.1 acre) irrigation system. Resource Concerns: Insufficient stockwater. Associated Practices: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 382 - Fence; 

430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; 516 - Livestock Pipeline; 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection; and, 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Water in a nearby stream is not available at the desired location, pressure and/or flow rate.

After Situation:

A 2' diameter inlet pipe is installed and connected to a water ram pump with all appurtenances and anchored to a concrete pad (9 ft x 4 ft x 5 in) or other appropriate 

secure base. Depending upon the application, either a 1-inch diameter Livestock Pipeline (516) or an Irrigation Pipeline (430) is installed from the water ram to a 5,000 

gallon storage facility. Improved water quantity or quality, grazing management, plant diversity, animal health, and/or irrigation purposes as outlined in the appropriate 

NRCS irrigation system standard. A 2' water ram, with 10 gpm of inlet flow and 10 feet of drop, can supply about 1.0 gpm to a location about 50 feet higher than the water 

ram.

Feature Measure: Number of Ram Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,217.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,217.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 0.5 $263.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Pump, Ram 1114 Ram pump kit, 2 inch. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $355.24 1 $355.24
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #199 - Livestock Nose Pump

Scenario Description:

A Nose Pump is a diaphragm pump located in a pasture for the purpose of providing water to cattle. For a permanent installation, it is typical to also install Heavy Use Area 

Protection (561) (separate contract item) where the cattle congregate around the pump. It is powered and operated by cattle to transfer water from a stream to a drinking 

bowl. The objective is to provide water to the cattle outside of a live stream or other natural water source thereby eliminating a significant erosion situation and while also 

improving water quality. The cattle thus have access to drinking water without having to enter the stream. Generally one nose pump is adequate for 20 cattle. Resource 

Concerns: Insufficient stockwater; Inefficient energy use - Equipment and facilities. Associated Practices include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 382 - Fence; 516 - 

Livestock Pipeline; 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection; and, 614 - Watering Facility.

Before Situation:

Livestock have open access to a live stream or other existing natural water supply. Water supply is contaminated due to animal activity and stream banks are eroded on a 

daily basis. Improper cattle distribution results in poor water quality, poor grazing distribution, over grazing, and soil erosion.

After Situation:

One nose pump is installed with all appurtenances anchored to concrete pad with 6'x6'x10 Gauge reinforcement wire (9 ft x 4 ft x 5 in) or other appropriate secure base to 

supply water to cattle for improved livestock herd management. Additional Heavy Use Area Protection (561) in the form of crushed rock and at least 5 feet wide, may be 

installed (separate contract item) surrounding the concrete pad. Improved: water quality, soil quality, grazing management, plant diversity, and animal health.

Feature Measure: Number of Pumps

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,488.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,488.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 0.5 $263.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Nose Pump 1052 Materials and delivery. Each $425.80 1 $425.80
Practice: 533 - Pumping Plant

Scenario: #283 - Livestock, w/ Pressure Tank, No Vault, Low HP

Scenario Description:

A submersible electric-powered pump (typically less than 2 HP) is installed in a well or structure. It is used to provide water for livestock as part of a prescribed grazing 

system. Submersible pump installed to deliver stockwater from a well or waterbody to a watering facility. Installation includes drop pipe, pump, and all necessary 

appurtenances and includes a pressure tank, without a vault. Resource Concerns: Livestock Production Limitation - Inadequate livestock water. AssociatedPractices 

include: 374 - Farmstead Energy Improvement; 516 - Livestock Pipeline.

Before Situation:

Grazing system has an inadequate water supply for livestock that prevents efficient use of pasture.

After Situation:

Properly designed water supply system including pump, pipeline, and watering facilities are in place. Water is delivered at a sufficient rate to meet the requirements of a 

prescribed grazing system.

Feature Measure: No of Pumps Installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,586.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,586.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 2 $895.64

Pressure Tank, 80 gallon 1039 Pressure Tank, 80 gallon. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $585.66 1 $585.66
Practice: 548 - Grazing Land Mechanical Treatment

Scenario: #1 - Range Mechanical Treatment

Scenario Description:

Using a heavy modified plow, or combinations of equipment, that modify physical soil layers or plant conditions on rangelands.

Before Situation:

Desired Ecological plant community is limited by a plant or soil layer that physically restricts change over a threshold.

After Situation:

Desired Ecological plant community has changed by overcoming the threshold, or the seeded vegetaion establishes and sustains its function and ecological processes for 

the life of the practice.

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $920.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Grazingland Renovation, 2024

Furrowing

Contour furrowing on existing grazingland including tillage implement, 

power unit and labor.

Acres $36.29 25 $907.25

Materials

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 100 $13.00
Practice: 548 - Grazing Land Mechanical Treatment

Scenario: #2 - Pastureland Mechanical Treatment

Scenario Description:

This also applies to organic operations as well. Chisel plowing or subsoiling will be used to break the restrictive layers in order to increase water infiltration, and break up 

sod and thatch on introduced forages. Depth of treatment will be 1' deeper than the restictive layer.

Before Situation:

Forage growth on pastureland is limited by compacted soils layers and /or dense sod with thatch build up.

After Situation:

Forage growth is increased due to greater rooting depths and increased water infiltration.

Feature Measure: area of treatmnent

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $608.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Ripper or subsoiler, 16 to 36 inch 1235

depth

Deep ripper or subsoiler, (16-36 inches depth) includes tillage 

implement, power unit and labor.

Acres $23.83 25 $595.75

Materials

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 100 $13.00
Practice: 550 - Range Planting

Scenario: #1 - Native, Standard Prep 

Scenario Description:

Establishment of a mixture of NATIVE adapted perennial species on a grazed land unit to improve forage condition, improve wildlife habitat and/or reduce erosion. Seed 

mix of Native species is chosen based on range conditions and availability of seed. Planting by preparing a seedbed with LIGHT TO MODERATE TILLAGE and seeding with a 

no-till drill, range drill, or by broadcasting. 

Before Situation:

Rangeland or cropland with or without an existing stand of perennial or annual grasses, OR a monoculture, OR no grasses are present, where natural reseeding or 

vegetation enhancement by grazing management alone is unlikely. Resource concerns may include: undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and 

forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil quality.

After Situation:

Establishment of NATIVE adapted perennial vegetation such as grasses, forbs, and legumes improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on grazed range, 

pasture, forest or other suitable location.

Feature Measure: Acres of Range Planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,701.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $171.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 80 $10,797.60
Practice: 550 - Range Planting

Scenario: #2 - Native, Standard Prep (FI)

Scenario Description:

Establishment of a mixture of NATIVE adapted perennial species on a grazed land unit to improve forage condition, improve wildlife habitat and/or reduce erosion. Seed 

mix of Native species is chosen based on range conditions and availability of seed. Planting by preparing a seedbed with LIGHT TO MODERATE TILLAGE and seeding with a 

no-till drill, range drill, or by broadcasting. 

Before Situation:

Rangeland or cropland with or without an existing stand of perennial or annual grasses, OR a monoculture, OR no grasses are present, where natural reseeding or 

vegetation enhancement by grazing management alone is unlikely. Resource concerns may include: undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and 

forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil quality.

After Situation:

Establishment of NATIVE adapted perennial vegetation such as grasses, forbs, and legumes improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on grazed range, 

pasture, forest or other suitable location.

Feature Measure: Acres of Range Planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,237.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $202.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 80 $2,536.00

Month

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 80 $10,797.60
Practice: 550 - Range Planting

Scenario: #3 - Native, Heavy Prep

Scenario Description:

Establishment of a mixture of NATIVE adapted perennial species on a grazed land unit to improve forage condition, improve wildlife habitat and/or reduce erosion. Seed 

mix of Native species is chosen based on range conditions and availability of seed. Planting by preparing a seedbed with MODERATE TO HEAVY TILLAGE (ex: ripping & 

heavy disk) and seeding with a no-till drill, range drill, or by broadcasting. 

Before Situation:

Rangeland or cropland with or without an existing stand of perennial or annual grasses, OR a monoculture, OR no grasses are present, where natural reseeding or 

vegetation enhancement by grazing management alone is unlikely. Existing conditions often require complete suppression or eradication of existing vegetation to ensure 

success of the planting. Resource concerns may include: undesireable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil quality.

After Situation:

Establishment of NATIVE adapted perennial vegetation such as grasses, forbs, and legumes improve forage quality and quantity and reduce soil erosion on grazed range, 

pasture, forest or other suitable location.

Feature Measure: Acres of Range Planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,468.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $193.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 80 $1,767.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 80 $10,797.60
Practice: 550 - Range Planting

Scenario: #5 - Native, Wildlife, or Pollinator (FI)

Scenario Description:

Establishment of a mixture of PREDOMINANTLY NATIVE adapted perennial species on a grazed land unit to improve habitat for pollinators,beneficial insects, and wildlife 

species. Seed mix of PREDOMINANTLY NATIVE SPECIES IS CHOSEN TO SPECIFICALLY BENEFIT WILDLIFE (ex: big game spp, Sage grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, others) or 

POLLINATORS (eg. inclusion of 5-10 forb species) based on range conditions. FOR POLLINATOR HABITAT: Consideration is given to selecting plants that bloom sequentially 

throughout the growing season, where feasible. For honeybee foraging habitat, species are selected which will be in bloom when hives are in the area. Planting by 

preparing a seedbed with MODERATE TO HEAVY TILLAGE (ex: ripping & heavy disk) and seeding with a no-till drill, range drill, or by broadcasting. 

Before Situation:

Rangeland or cropland with or without an existing stand of perennial or annual grasses, OR a monoculture, OR no grasses are present, where natural reseeding or 

vegetation enhancement by grazing management alone is unlikely. Existing conditions often require complete removal, suppression, or eradication of existing vegetation 

to ensure success of planting. Resource concerns may include: inadequate habitat for wildlife (ex: big game spp, Sage grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, others) undesireable 

plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil quality.

After Situation:

Establishment of PREDOMINANTLY NATIVE adapted perennial vegetation, such as grasses, forbs, legumes, with an emphasis on species beneficial to wildlife or Pollinators 

on grazed range, pasture, forest, or other suitable location. For Pollinator habitat: Plants that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season are established, where 

feasible.

Feature Measure: Acres of Range Planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,045.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $280.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 50 $727.00

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 50 $1,104.50

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 50 $1,585.00

Month

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2753

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and 

less). Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $190.81 50 $9,540.50
Practice: 550 - Range Planting

Scenario: #67 - Native -Wildlife or Pollinator

Scenario Description:

Establishment of a mixture of PREDOMINANTLY NATIVE adapted perennial species on a rangeland unit to improve wildlife habitat, benefit pollinators & beneficial insects, 

improve forage condition, and/or reduce erosion. Seed mix of PREDOMINANTLY NATIVE SPECIES IS CHOSEN TO SPECIFICALLY BENEFIT WILDLIFE (ex: big game spp, Sage 

grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, others) or POLLINATORS (ex: inclusion of 5-10 forb species) based on range conditions and availability of seed. FOR POLLINATOR HABITAT: 

Consideration is given to selecting plants that bloom sequentially throughout the growing season where feasible. Planting by preparing a seedbed with MODERATE TO 

HEAVY TILLAGE (ex: ripping & heavy disk) and seeding with a no-till drill, range drill, or broadcasting. 

Before Situation:

Rangeland with existing stand of perennial or annual grasses OR monoculture OR no grasses present where natural reseeding or vegetation enhancement by grazing 

management alone is unlikely. Existing conditions often require complete removal, suppression, or eradication of existing vegetation to ensure success of planting. 

Pollinator plantings Resource Concerns may include: inadequate habitat for wildlife (ex: big game spp, Sage grouse, Lesser Prairie Chicken, others) undesirable plant 

productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion and soil quality.

After Situation:

Establishment of PREDOMINANTLY NATIVE adapted perennial vegetation such as grasses, forbs, legumes, shrubs, and trees with an emphasis on species beneficial to 

wildlife or Pollinators on rangeland, native or naturalized pasture, grazed forest or other suitable location. For Pollinator habitat: Plants that bloom sequentially 

throughout the growing season are established, where feasible.

Feature Measure: Acres of Range Planting

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,950.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $139.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 50 $727.00

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 50 $1,104.50

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 50 $1,088.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 50 $3,068.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 554 - Drainage Water Management

Scenario: #1 - Drainage Water Management (DWM)

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the process of managing water discharges from surface and/or subsurface agricultural drainage systems by reducing nutrient loading into surface waters. 

Typical systems consist of a 80 acre field with existing drainage tile lines and installed water control structures. The operator goes to the field in order to adjust water 

control structures (riser boards). While on site the date and adjustment information is recorded/logged. The number of yearly adjustments is based on 6 trips to a field 5 

miles from headquarters. The field time to make and record each adjustment is 0.5 hours per structure (including travel time). The typical field will contain 3 structures to 

control field water levels. Resource Concern: Water Quality - Excess Nutrients in surface and ground waters. Associated Practices: 606-Subsurface Drain; 607-Surface 

Drain, Field Ditch; 608-Surface Drain, Main or Lateral; 587-Structure for Water Control; 590-Nutrient Management . 

Before Situation:

Existing drainage systems are in place and water flows uncontrolled.

After Situation:

Existing drainage systems are managed to reduce flow of field drainage waters from the site and reduce nitrate loading.

Feature Measure: Number of Control Structures

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $325.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $108.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 0.33 $38.41

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 9 $287.28
Practice: 554 - Drainage Water Management

Scenario: #22 - Automated Drainage Water Management

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the process of managing the drainage water discharge volume and water table elevation by regulating the flow from surface and/or subsurface agricultural 

drainage systems utilizing automation. Typical systems consist of a field with a fairly flat slope (less than 2% and preferably less than 1%) with existing drainage tile lines 

and installed water control structures which are operated with automated slide gates, and telemetry data systems coupled with cloud data management. Typical affected 

area for an automated drainage water management structure is 10 to 20 acres. The operator, from handheld device, adjusts water control structures (gate elevation) and 

logs data. Educational meeting is conducted between consultant and operator(s) annually for essential knowledge transfer Resource Concern: Water Quality - Excess 

Nutrients in surface and ground waters. Associated Practices: 606-Subsurface Drain; 607-Surface Drain, Field Ditch; 608-Surface Drain, Main or Lateral; 587-Structure for 

Water Control; 590-Nutrient Management.

Before Situation:

Existing inefficient drainage systems are in place and water flows uncontrolled, resulting in sediment and nutrient laden outflow entering ditches or streams.

After Situation:

Existing drainage systems are managed utilizing telemetry and real-time data to retain moisture in the soil for plant uptake and to allow for enhanced nutrient utilization.

Feature Measure: Acres of Managed Drainage

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $406.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 7.5 $239.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 555 - Rock Wall Terrace

Scenario: #25 - Rock/Geotextile/Gravel Barrier

Scenario Description:

A rock retaining wall with rock riprap on geotextile and gravel bedding constructed across the slope to form and support a bench terrace that will control the flow of water 

and check erosion on sloping land. The rock retaining wall will stabilize steeply sloping land so that it can be farmed with minimal soil loss. The resource concerns 

addressed include soil erosion, water quality degradation, and excess water.

Before Situation:

Rock barriers are applicable to agricultural land that is steeply sloping with a soil depth adequate for benching and where the effectiveness of less intensive measures for 

soil and water conservation are inadequate. This standard applies to sites with land slopes up to 70 percent. Suitable, stable natural outlets or satisfactory sites for 

constructed outlets must be available.

After Situation:

A rock barrier, approximately 200 feet in length, with 90 cubic yards of rock, with a gravel bedding of approximately 26 cubic yards on geotextile, constructed across the 

slope to form and support a bench terrace that will control the flow of water and check erosion on sloping land to stabilize steeply sloping land so that it can be farmed 

with minimal soil loss. Vegetation of disturbed areas will be completed under critical area planting (342). Erosion control during construction activities will use Stormwater 

Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Terrace (600), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Feet of Rock Barrier

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,504.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $67.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 20 $16.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 90 $12,156.30

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 26 $559.26

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 555 - Rock Wall Terrace

Scenario: #26 - Grouted Rock Geotextile Gravel Barrier

Scenario Description:

A rock retaining wall with grouted rock riprap on geotextile and gravel bedding constructed across the slope to form and support a bench terrace that will control the flow 

of water and check erosion on sloping land. The rock retaining wall will stabilize steeply sloping land so that it can be farmed with minimal soil loss. The resource concerns 

addressed include soil erosion, water quality degradation, and excess water.

Before Situation:

Rock barriers are applicable to agricultural land that is steeply sloping with a soil depth adequate for benching and where the effectiveness of less intensive measures for 

soil and water conservation are inadequate. This standard applies to sites with land slopes up to 70 percent. Suitable, stable natural outlets or satisfactory sites for 

constructed outlets must be available.

After Situation:

A rock barrier, approximately 200 feet in length, with 90 cubic yards of grouted rock, with a gravel bedding of approximately 12 cubic yards with approximately 230 square 

yards of geotextile, constructed across the slope to form and support a bench terrace that will control the flow of water and check erosion on sloping land to stabilize 

steeply sloping land so that it can be farmed with minimal soil loss. Vegetation of disturbed areas will be completed under critical area planting (342). Erosion control 

during construction activities will use Stormwater Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Terrace (600), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground 

Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Feet of Rock Barrier

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,999.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $75.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 20 $16.80

Scraper, self propelled, 21 CY 1208 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 21 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $299.09 5 $1,495.45

Rock Riprap, grouted 1757 Grouted Rock Riprap, includes materials, local delivery within 20 miles 

of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $137.79 90 $12,401.10

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 26 $559.26

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 555 - Rock Wall Terrace

Scenario: #27 - Gabion Rock Barrier

Scenario Description:

A rock retaining wall with rock filled gabions on geotextile and gravel bedding constructed across the slope to form and support a bench terrace that will control the flow 

of water and check erosion on sloping land. The rock retaining wall will stabilize steeply sloping land so that it can be farmed with minimal soil loss. The resource concerns 

addressed include soil erosion, water quality degradation, and excess water.

Before Situation:

Rock barriers are applicable to agricultural land that is steeply sloping with a soil depth adequate for benching and where the effectiveness of less intensive measures for 

soil and water conservation are inadequate. This standard applies to sites with land slopes up to 70 percent. Suitable, stable natural outlets or satisfactory sites for 

constructed outlets must be available.

After Situation:

A rock barrier, approximately 200 feet in length, with 90 cubic yards of rock in gabions, with a gravel bedding of approximately 12 cubic yards with approximately 230 

square yards of geotextile, constructed across the slope to form and support a bench terrace that will control the flow of water and check erosion on sloping land to 

stabilize steeply sloping land so that it can be farmed with minimal soil loss. Vegetation of disturbed areas will be completed under critical area planting (342). Erosion 

control during construction activities will use Stormwater Runoff Control (570). Other associated practices include Terrace (600), Grassed Waterway (412), and 

Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Feet of Rock Barrier

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,232.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $101.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 20 $16.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 26 $559.26

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 230 $478.40

Gabion basket or mat 1378 Gabion baskets or mats installed and filled on grade, includes materials, 

transport, equipment, and labor, does not include geotextile fabric.

Cubic Yards $202.38 90 $18,214.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 558 - Roof Runoff Structure

Scenario: #1 - Roof Gutter

Scenario Description:

A roof runoff structure, consisting of gutter(s), downspout(s), and appropriate outlet facilities on a 200 feet long building by 10 feet tall side walls. Used to keep roof clean 

water runoff uncontaminated and provide a stable outlet to ground surface. Facilitates waste management and protects environment by minimizing clean water additions 

to waste systems and addresses water quality concerns. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Composting Facility (317), Heavy Use Area Protection 

(561), Watering Facility (614), Underground Outlet (620), Diversion (362), Roofs and Covers (367), and any relevant irrigation practices.

Before Situation:

Applicable where: (1) a roof runoff management facility is included in an overall plan for an overall plan for a waste management system; (2) roof runoff needs to be 

diverted away from structures or contaminated areas; (3) there is a need to collect, control, and transport runoff from roofs to a stable outlet.

After Situation:

A gutter, downspout, and outlet system servicing the portion of the building roof that would otherwise drain into a waste management system or create erosion. Roof 

line of 200 feet serviced with gutter, downspouts, and appurtenances. 

Feature Measure: Linear Length of Roof to be Guttere

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,099.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Materials

Gutter, Aluminum, Small 1689 Aluminum gutter, 4 to 6 in. width with hangers. Materials only. Feet $3.60 200 $720.00

Downspout, Aluminum 1700 Aluminum downspout 3 to 5 inch width with hangers. Materials only. Feet $3.10 30 $93.00
Practice: 558 - Roof Runoff Structure

Scenario: #37 - High Tunnel Roof Runoff Trench Drain and Storage

Scenario Description:

NOT TO BE USED WHERE CONTAMINATED SOIL EXIST. An urban agricultural producer wishes to address a resource concern such as a need for water or erosion around 

high tunnel from roof runoff and collect and store roof runoff for reuse as supplemental irrigation/water supply water. Associated Practice: High Tunnel

Before Situation:

Producer has resource concern such as erosion caused by roof runoff from an installed high tunnel

After Situation:

A 2' deep by 3' wide by 100' long trench filled with clean stone w/ 4-8 inch perforated PE pipe located on both sides of the hightunnel collect the roof runoff and divert to 

an underground storage tank. Trench drain typically installed at ground level under the edge of a high tunnel. Outlet from 'Trench Drain' conveys water to a buried 

storage tank. Typically installed to capture water for reuse or to stop erosion caused by concentrated roof runoff.

Feature Measure: Length of hightunnel

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,112.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 227 $247.43

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 10 $60.30

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 72 $254.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 46 $759.92

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 15.2 $32.83

Prefabricated concrete septic 1738

tank, 1500 gal

Precast concrete septic tank, 1,500 gal. Materials only. Each $1,402.75 1 $1,402.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 558 - Roof Runoff Structure

Scenario: #48 - Roof Gutter, 6 inches wide with runoff Storage Tank

Scenario Description:

A roof runoff structure, consisting of gutter(s), downspout(s), and a storage tank. Used to keep roof clean water runoff uncontaminated, provide storage for on-farm use 

of roof water and a stable outlet for any excess to ground surface in a way that avoids erosion. Facilitates waste management and protects environment by minimizing 

clean water additions to waste systems and addresses water quality concerns. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Composting Facility (317), 

Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Watering Facility (614), Underground Outlet (620), Diversion (362), and any relevant irrigation practices.

Before Situation:

Applicable where: (1) a roof runoff management facility is included in an overall plan for an overall plan for a waste management system; (2) roof runoff needs to be 

diverted away from structures or contaminated areas; (3) there is a need to collect, control, and transport runoff from roofs to a stable outlet.

After Situation:

A gutter and downspouts servicing the portion of the building roof that would otherwise drain into a waste management system or create erosion. Roof line of 200 ln.ft. 

serviced with gutter, downspouts, and appurtances. A 1,500 gallon tank is installed for storage and use of roof runoff.

Feature Measure: Linear Length of Roof to be Guttere

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,177.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 2 $12.06

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 2 $43.02

Tank, Poly Enclosed Storage, 1075

>1,000

Water storage tanks. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $1.22 1500 $1,830.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 223.3 $529.22

Gutter, Aluminum, Small 1689 Aluminum gutter, 4 to 6 in. width with hangers. Materials only. Feet $3.60 200 $720.00

Downspout, Aluminum 1700 Aluminum downspout 3 to 5 inch width with hangers. Materials only. Feet $3.10 60 $186.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Aggregate, Shipping, Cubic Yard- 2360

mile

Mobilization of aggregate material beyond 20 miles of local delivery 

from quarry to construction site. Cubic Yard-mile (Cubic Yard * miles of 

haul).

Cubic Yard $0.41 100 $41.00

Mile
Practice: 558 - Roof Runoff Structure

Scenario: #49 - Trench Drain

Scenario Description:

A roof runoff structure, consisting of a trench filled with rock, with a polyethylene, corrugated, perforated drain tile installed in trench bottom. Used to keep roof clean 

water runoff uncontaminated and provide a stable outlet to ground surface. Environmental/design considerations, for example ??? snow loads, or a building without 

proper structural support needed for gutters dictate the use of a trench drain. Facilitates waste management and protects the environment by minimizing clean water 

additions to waste systems and addresses water quality concerns. Associated practices include Waste Storage Facility (313), Composting Facility (317), Heavy Use Area 

Protection (561), Underground Outlet (620), and Diversion (362). 

Before Situation:

Applicable where: (1) a roof runoff management facility is included in an overall plan for an overall plan for a waste management system; (2) roof runoff needs to be 

diverted away from structures or contaminated areas; (3) there is a need to collect, control, and transport runoff from roofs to a stable outlet.

After Situation:

A 2' deep by 3' wide by 200 long deep rock filled, tile drained trench and outlet system servicing the portion of the building roof that would otherwise drain into a waste 

management system or create erosion. 

Feature Measure: Linear Length of Roof to be Drained

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,063.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 222 $241.98

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 44 $106.92

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 44 $946.44

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 71.5 $154.44

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 560 - Access Road

Scenario: #1 - New 6 inch gravel road without Geotextile, Less than 2.5 Ft.

Scenario Description:

Newly Constructed gravel road with min. 6 inch thick compacted gravel surface on relatively level ground. A properly constructed, well defined access road will address 

resource concerns related with compaction, emissions of fugitive dust, and excessive sediment in surface water. It also improves the plant productivity, vigor and health 

and substantially reduces the chance of wild fire hazards. Short term air quality deterioration may result if proper dust control measures are not implemented during the 

practice installation. Costs include excavation, shaping, grading, and all equipment, labor and incidental materials necessary to install the practice.

Before Situation:

An agricultural enterprise which requires, but does not have, a fixed travel way for equipment and vehicles for various resource activities and where use of equipment and 

vehicles within the enterprise without a defined access road would result in compaction, excessive sediment and turbidity in surface water, reduced visibility, and 

emissions of fugitive dust. This scenario is applicable where the resource activity areas consist of relatively level, dry terrain lands.

After Situation:

The road will be 16 feet wide with 6 inch gravel surfacing at the top. It is mostly in embankment less than 2.5 feet in height, (average 1.5 ft) typical side slopes 3:1. A 

properly constructed, well defined access road will greatly reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, eliminate compaction in land use areas where it is harmful, reduce 

emissions of particulate matter (PM) and PM precursors and also reduce excessive sediment in surface water by reducing uncontrolled sediment transport. Planned 

grades will include all dips and water bars. If clearing and grubbing of land in the alignment area is required, use Land Clearing (460). Pipe culverts installed as part of 

access road should be covered by either Structures for Water Control (587) or Stream Crossings (578) depending on the type of structure. Earthfill embankment above the 

culvert structure would still be covered by this Practice. Diversions constructed as part of access road should be covered by Diversion (362). When seeding or revegetation 

is required, use Critical Area Planting (342). Dust control must be addressed under Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces (373).

Feature Measure: Length of Roadway

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,202.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1140 $4,411.80

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 926 $777.84

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 296 $4,889.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 560 - Access Road

Scenario: #2 - New 6 inch gravel road with Geotextile, less than 2.5 Ft.

Scenario Description:

Newly Constructed gravel road with min. 6 inch thick compacted gravel surface over woven geotextile fabric on relatively level ground and weak bearing capacity soils. A 

properly constructed, well defined access road will address resource concerns related with compaction, emissions of fugitive dust, and excessive sediment in surface 

water. It also improves the plant productivity, vigor and health and substantially reduces the chance of wild fire hazards. Short term air quality deterioration may result if 

proper dust control measures are not implemented during the practice installation. Costs include excavation, shaping, grading, and all equipment, labor and incidental 

materials necessary to install the practice.

Before Situation:

An agricultural enterprise which requires, but does not have, a fixed travel way for equipment and vehicles for various resource activities and where use of equipment and 

vehicles within the enterprise without a defined access road would result in compaction, excessive sediment and turbidity in surface water, reduced visibility, and 

emissions of fugitive dust. This scenario is applicable where the resource activity areas consist of relatively wet and swampy but level terrain lands.

After Situation:

The road will be 16 feet wide with 6 inch gravel surfacing at the top over woven geotextile fabric. It is mostly in embankment less than 2.5 feet in height, (average 1.5 ft) 

typical side slopes 3:1. A properly constructed, well defined access road will greatly reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, eliminate compaction in land use areas where it is 

harmful, reduce emissions of particulate matter (PM) and PM precursors and also reduce excessive sediment in surface water by reducing uncontrolled sediment 

transport. Planned grades will include all dips and water bars. If clearing and grubbing of land in the alignment area is required, use Land Clearing (460). Pipe culverts 

installed as part of access road should be covered by either Structures for Water Control (587) or Stream Crossings (578) depending on the type of structure. Earthfill 

embankment above the culvert structure would still be covered by this Practice. Diversions constructed as part of access road should be covered by Diversion (362). When 

seeding or revegetation is required, use Critical Area Planting (342). Dust control must be addressed under Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces (373).

Feature Measure: Length of Roadway

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,624.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 2222 $2,421.98

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1140 $4,411.80

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 926 $777.84

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 296 $4,889.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 560 - Access Road

Scenario: #3 - New 6 inch gravel road without Geotextile, 2.5 ft. or higher

Scenario Description:

Newly Constructed gravel road with min. 6 inch thick compacted gravel surface on relatively level ground. A properly constructed, well defined access road will address 

resource concerns related with compaction, emissions of fugitive dust, and excessive sediment in surface water. It also improves the plant productivity, vigor and health 

and substantially reduces the chance of wild fire hazards. Short term air quality deterioration may result if proper dust control measures are not implemented during the 

practice installation. Costs include excavation, shaping, grading, and all equipment, labor and incidental materials necessary to install the practice.

Before Situation:

An agricultural enterprise which requires, but does not have, a fixed travel way for equipment and vehicles for various resource activities and where use of equipment and 

vehicles within the enterprise without a defined access road would result in compaction, excessive sediment and turbidity in surface water, reduced visibility, and 

emissions of fugitive dust. This scenario is applicable where the resource activity areas consist of relatively level, dry terrain lands.

After Situation:

The road will be 16 feet wide with 6 inch gravel surfacing at the top. It is mostly in embankment equal to or greater than 2.5 feet in height, (average 3.0 ft) typical side 

slopes 3:1. A properly constructed, well defined access road will greatly reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, eliminate compaction in land use areas where it is harmful, 

reduce emissions of particulate matter (PM) and PM precursors and also reduce excessive sediment in surface water by reducing uncontrolled sediment transport. 

Planned grades will include all dips and water bars. If clearing and grubbing of land in the alignment area is required, use Land Clearing (460). Pipe culverts installed as part 

of access road should be covered by either Structures for Water Control (587) or Stream Crossings (578) depending on the type of structure. Earthfill embankment above 

the culvert structure would still be covered by this Practice. Diversions constructed as part of access road should be covered by Diversion (362). When seeding or 

revegetation is required, use Critical Area Planting (342). Dust control must be addressed under Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces (373).

Feature Measure: Length of Roadway

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,478.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $17.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2780 $10,758.60

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1260 $1,058.40

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 296 $4,889.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 560 - Access Road

Scenario: #4 - New 6 inch gravel road with Geotextile, 2.5 ft. or higher

Scenario Description:

Newly Constructed gravel road with min. 6 inch thick compacted gravel surface over woven geotextile fabric on relatively level ground and weak bearing capacity soils. A 

properly constructed, well defined access road will address resource concerns related with compaction, emissions of fugitive dust, and excessive sediment in surface 

water. It also improves the plant productivity, vigor and health and substantially reduces the chance of wild fire hazards. Short term air quality deterioration may result if 

proper dust control measures are not implemented during the practice installation. Costs include excavation, shaping, grading, and all equipment, labor and incidental 

materials necessary to install the practice.

Before Situation:

An agricultural enterprise which requires, but does not have, a fixed travel way for equipment and vehicles for various resource activities and where use of equipment and 

vehicles within the enterprise without a defined access road would result in compaction, excessive sediment and turbidity in surface water, reduced visibility, and 

emissions of fugitive dust. This scenario is applicable where the resource activity areas consist of relatively wet and swampy but level terrain lands.

After Situation:

The road will be 16 feet wide with 6 inch gravel surfacing at the top over woven geotextile fabric. It is mostly in embankment equal to or greater than 2.5 feet in height, 

(average 3.0 ft) typical side slopes 3:1. A properly constructed, well defined access road will greatly reduce sheet, rill and wind erosion, eliminate compaction in land use 

areas where it is harmful, reduce emissions of particulate matter (PM) and PM precursors and also reduce excessive sediment in surface water by reducing uncontrolled 

sediment transport. Planned grades will include all dips and water bars. If clearing and grubbing of land in the alignment area is required, use Land Clearing (460). Pipe 

culverts installed as part of access road should be covered by either Structures for Water Control (587) or Stream Crossings (578) depending on the type of structure. 

Earthfill embankment above the culvert structure would still be covered by this Practice. Diversions constructed as part of access road should be covered by Diversion 

(362). When seeding or revegetation is required, use Critical Area Planting (342). Dust control must be addressed under Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces 

(373).

Feature Measure: Length of Roadway

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,251.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 2222 $2,421.98

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2780 $10,758.60

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1260 $1,058.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 296 $4,889.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection

Scenario: #1 - Reinforced Concrete with sand or gravel foundation - cubic yard - NP Region

Scenario Description:

The stabilization of areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles by surfacing with reinforced concrete on a sand or gravel 

foundation to provide a stable, non-eroding surface. Installation includes all materials, equipment, and labor to install this practice, The stabilized area will address the 

resource concerns soil erosion and water quality degradation. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to agricultural, urban, recreational and other frequently and/or intensively used areas requiring treatment to address soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

After Situation:

The stabilized area is surfaced with approximately 600 square feet of approximately 11 cubic yards of welded wire mesh reinforced concrete with 11 cubic yards of sand or 

gravel foundation material for surfacing areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles and will address soil erosion and 

water quality degradation. All needed roads must use Access Road (560). Any needed treatment of stream crossings must use Stream Crossing (578). Any needed 

vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Provisions to collect, store, utilize, and or treat contaminated runoff must use Sediment Basin (350), 

Waste Storage Facility (313), or Waste Treatment (629) as appropriate. To reduce the potential for air quality problems from particulate matter associated with heavy use 

areas, consider the use of Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment (380) or Herbaceous Wind Barriers 

(603). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Concrete

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 11.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,954.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $632.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 11 $5,801.84

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 25 $60.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 11 $224.84

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection

Scenario: #2 - Rock/Gravel on Geotextile - cubic yard - NP Region

Scenario Description:

The stabilization of areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles by surfacing with rock and or gravel on a geotextile fabric 

foundation to provide a stable, non-eroding surface. Installation includes all materials, equipment, and labor to install this practice, The stabilized area will address the 

resource concerns of soil erosion and water quality degradation. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to agricultural, urban, recreational and other frequently and/or intensively used areas requiring treatment to address soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

After Situation:

The stabilized area is surfaced with approximately 30 cubic yards of rock and or gravel on approximately 160 square yards of geotextile fabric foundation material for 

surfacing areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles and will address soil erosion and water quality degradation. All 

needed roads must use Access Road (560). Any needed treatment of stream crossings must use Stream Crossing (578). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use 

Critical Area Planting (342). Provisions to collect, store, utilize, and or treat contaminated runoff must use Sediment Basin (350), Waste Storage Facility (313), or Waste 

Treatment (629) as appropriate. To reduce the potential for air quality problems from particulate matter associated with heavy use areas, consider the use of 

Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment (380) or Herbaceous Wind Barriers (603). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Rock and/or Gravel

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,641.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $54.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 160 $174.40

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 43 $104.49

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 30 $495.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection

Scenario: #3 - Rock/Gravel

Scenario Description:

The stabilization of areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles by surfacing with rock and or gravel to provide a stable, 

non-eroding surface. Installation includes all materials, equipment, and labor to install this practice. The stabilized area will address the resource concerns of soil erosion 

and water quality degradation. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to agricultural, urban, recreational and other frequently and/or intensively used areas requiring treatment to address soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

After Situation:

The stabilized area is surfaced with approximately 270 cubic yards of rock and or gravel for surfacing areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by 

people, animals or vehicles and will address soil erosion and water quality degradation. All needed roads must use Access Road (560). Any needed treatment of stream 

crossings must use Stream Crossing (578). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Provisions to collect, store, utilize, and or treat 

contaminated runoff must use Sediment Basin (350), Waste Storage Facility (313), or Waste Treatment (629) as appropriate. To reduce the potential for air quality 

problems from particulate matter associated with heavy use areas, consider the use of Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment (380) or Herbaceous Wind Barriers 

(603). 

Feature Measure: Volume of Rock and/or Gravel

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 270.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,303.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 270 $4,460.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection

Scenario: #19 - Rock/Gravel-GeoCell-Geotextile

Scenario Description:

The stabilization of areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles by surfacing with rock and or gravel in a cellular 

containment grid on a geotextile fabric foundation to provide a stable, non-eroding surface. Installation includes all materials, equipment, vegetation of disturbed areas 

and labor to install this practice. The stabilized area will address the resource concerns of soil erosion and water quality degradation. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where frequently and/or intensively used areas require treatment to address soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

After Situation:

The stabilized area is surfaced with approximately 630 square feet of rock and or gravel in approximately 70 square yards of cellular containment grid on approximately 70 

square yards of geotextile fabric foundation material for surfacing areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles and will 

address soil erosion and water quality degradation. All seeding or revegetation of disturbed areas is provided. All needed roads must use Access Road (560). Any needed 

treatment of stream crossings must use Stream Crossing (578). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Provisions to collect, store, 

utilize, and or treat contaminated runoff must use Sediment Basin (350), Waste Storage Facility (313), or Waste Treatment (629) as appropriate. To reduce the potential 

for air quality problems from particulate matter associated with heavy use areas, consider the use of Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment (380) or Herbaceous Wind 

Barriers (603). 

Feature Measure: Area of Rock and or Gravel

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 630.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,567.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 70 $76.30

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 4 $9.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 8 $172.08

GeoCell, 4 inch 1054 4-inch thick cellular confinement system, three-dimensional, 

expandable panels made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), 

polyester or another polymer material. Includes materials, labor and 

equipment for the geocell only, does not include backfill

Square Yard $20.92 70 $1,464.40

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection

Scenario: #55 - Reinforced Concrete with sand or gravel foundation

Scenario Description:

The stabilization of areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles by surfacing with reinforced concrete on a sand or gravel 

foundation to provide a stable, non-eroding surface. Installation includes all materials, equipment, vegetation of disturbed areas, and labor to install this practice, The 

stabilized area will address the resource concerns soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where frequently and/or intensively used areas require treatment to address soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

After Situation:

The stabilized area is surfaced with approximately 630 square feet of approximately 8 cubic yards of welded wire mesh reinforced concrete with 8 cubic yards of sand or 

gravel foundation material for surfacing areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles and will address soil erosion and 

water quality degradation. All seeding or revegetation of disturbed areas is provided. All needed roads must use Access Road (560). Any needed treatment of stream 

crossings must use Stream Crossing (578). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Provisions to collect, store, utilize, and or treat 

contaminated runoff must use Sediment Basin (350), Waste Storage Facility (313), or Waste Treatment (629) as appropriate. To reduce the potential for air quality 

problems from particulate matter associated with heavy use areas, consider the use of Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment (380) or Herbaceous Wind Barriers 

(603). 

Feature Measure: Area

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 630.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,237.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 8 $4,219.52

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 4 $9.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 8 $163.52

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 561 - Heavy Use Area Protection

Scenario: #56 - Rock/Gravel on Geotextile

Scenario Description:

The stabilization of areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles by surfacing with rock and or gravel on a geotextile fabric 

foundation to provide a stable, non-eroding surface. Installation includes all materials, equipment, vegetation of disturbed areas and labor to install this practice, The 

stabilized area will address the resource concerns of soil erosion and water quality degradation. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where frequently and/or intensively used areas require treatment to address soil erosion and water quality 

degradation. 

After Situation:

The stabilized area is surfaced with approximately 630 square feet of rock and or gravel on approximately 70 square yards of geotextile fabric foundation material for 

surfacing areas around facilities that are frequently and intensively used by people, animals or vehicles and will address soil erosion and water quality degradation. All 

seeding or revegetation of disturbed areas is provided. All needed roads must use Access Road (560). Any needed treatment of stream crossings must use Stream Crossing 

(578). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas must use Critical Area Planting (342). Provisions to collect, store, utilize, and or treat contaminated runoff must use 

Sediment Basin (350), Waste Storage Facility (313), or Waste Treatment (629) as appropriate. To reduce the potential for air quality problems from particulate matter 

associated with heavy use areas, consider the use of Windbreak/Shelterbelt Establishment (380) or Herbaceous Wind Barriers 

(603). 

Feature Measure: Area of Rock and or Gravel

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 630.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,102.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 70 $76.30

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 4 $9.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 8 $172.08

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 570 - Stormwater Runoff Control

Scenario: #35 - Rain Garden, 750 sqft or less

Scenario Description:

Typical Size: Drainage area 3750sqft. Garden size 20' x 30' area, 4-8' deep. Additional Considerations from the practice standard that would be addressed by the practice 

are: Design stormwater control practices to fit into the visual landscape as well as to function for runoff control. If properly designed, stormwater control practices can be 

beneficial to wildlife.

Before Situation:

Stormwater from farmstead impervious surfaces causes erosion and flooding

After Situation:

Stormwater is managed to prevent erosion, reduce quantity of runoff, enhance visual impact and increase wildlife habitat and/or food.

Feature Measure: sqft of rain garden

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,121.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 4 $229.68

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 7 $179.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Mulching, straw or hay 1214 Use of straw or hay for temporary ground cover. Includes application 

and methods necessary to keep in place such as tacking or crimping. 

Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Acres $3,209.03 0.02 $64.18

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 0.02 $9.40

Perennial Grass, Legume, and/or 2758

Forb Liners or Plugs, each

Perennial grasses, legumes and/or forbs for small areas using vegetative 

propagules including liners or plugs. Includes materials and shipping.

Number $2.17 75 $162.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 570 - Stormwater Runoff Control

Scenario: #41 - Rain Garden, greater than 750 sqft

Scenario Description:

Typical Size: 36' x 30' area, 4-8' deep. Additional Considerations from the practice standard that would be addressed by the practice are: Design stormwater control 

practices to fit into the visual landscape as well as to function for runoff control. If properly designed, stormwater control practices can be beneficial to wildlife.

Before Situation:

Stormwater is managed to prevent erosion from farmstead impervious surfaces and practice standard is met

After Situation:

Stormwater is managed to prevent erosion, reduce quantity of runoff, enhance visual impact and increase wildlife habitat and/or food.

Feature Measure: square feet of rain garden

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,080.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,316.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 2 $114.84

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Materials

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 0.3 $41.10

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 0.1 $46.98

Perennial Grass, Legume, and/or 2758

Forb Liners or Plugs, each

Perennial grasses, legumes and/or forbs for small areas using vegetative 

propagules including liners or plugs. Includes materials and shipping.

Number $2.17 150 $325.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 574 - Spring Development

Scenario: #1 - Spring, up to 50 ft Collection

Scenario Description:

Develop a water source from a natural spring or seep (i.e., spring development) to provide water for livestock and/or wildlife needs. This typical scenario includes 

excavating and exposing the water source at the spring/seep (typically on a hillside), constructing a water collection structure by installing a 30 ft long, 4 inch diameter 

HDPE perforated pipe enclosed in a sand/gravel envelope overlaid by 3 ft wide filter fabric (30 ft long) and behind a two layer vinyl cutoff wall (4 ft height x 30 ft long) to 

retain water. Water is directed (via 50 ft long, 4 inch PVC) to a spring box (48 inch diameter x 6 ft long CMP) that is located below the cutoff wall. The spring box is 

equipped with a watertight lid and two outlets. One outlet serves as overflow pipe to account for occasions where inflow exceeds outflow. The collection system is 

commonly composed of a single or a network of perforated 4 inch diameter drainage pipe placed in an excavated collection trench that runs across the slope. The second 

outflow pipe from the spring box is directed to buried large storage (not included) or to a watering facility (not included) for use. Resource Concern: Livestock production 

limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices: 516-Livestock Pipeline; 614-Watering Facility; 382-Fence; Critical Area Planting (342).

Before Situation:

Livestock operation with inadequate fresh water for livestock and an on-site undeveloped spring/seep.

After Situation:

Spring development system provides adequate water for the intended use. The system typically runs all year long in most zones.

Feature Measure: Number of Developments

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,493.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,493.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 10 $10.90

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 8 $411.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 10 $204.40

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 240 $21.60

Spring Collection Box Cover, steel, 1281

4 ft. diameter

4 foot diameter x 1/4 inch thick Steel lid with handle for spring 

collection box. Materials and fabrication.

Each $225.17 1 $225.17

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 153.5 $363.80

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 9.75 $21.06

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 288 $276.48

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 574 - Spring Development

Scenario: #2 - Spring, > 50 ft Collection

Scenario Description:

Develop a water source from a natural spring or seep (i.e., spring development) to provide water for livestock and/or wildlife needs. This typical scenario includes 

excavating and exposing the water source at the spring/seep (typically on a hillside), constructing a water collection structure by installing a 90 ft long, 4 inch diameter 

HDPE perforated pipe enclosed in a sand/gravel envelope overlaid by 3 ft wide filter fabric (90 ft long) and behind a two layer vinyl cutoff wall (4 ft height x 90 ft long) to 

retain water. Water is directed (via 100 ft long, 4 inch PVC) to a spring box (48 inch diameter x 8 ft long CMP) that is located below the cutoff wall and away from the 

spring collection area. The spring box is equipped with a watertight lid and two outlets. One outlet serves as overflow pipe to account for occasions where inflow exceeds 

outflow. The collection system is commonly composed of a single or a network of perforated 4 inch diameter drainage pipe placed in an excavated collection trench that 

runs across the slope. The second outflow pipe from the spring box is directed to buried large storage (not included), or to a watering facility (not included) for 

use. Resource Concern: Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices: 516-Livestock Pipeline; 614-Watering Facility; 382-Fence; 

Critical Area Planting (342).

Before Situation:

Livestock operation with inadequate fresh water for livestock and an on-site undeveloped spring/seep.

After Situation:

Spring development system provides adequate water for the intended use. The system typically runs all year long in most zones.

Feature Measure: Number of Developments

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,507.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,507.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 30 $32.70

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 16 $1,068.96

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 8 $411.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 30 $613.20

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 720 $64.80

Spring Collection Box Cover, steel, 1281

4 ft. diameter

4 foot diameter x 1/4 inch thick Steel lid with handle for spring 

collection box. Materials and fabrication.

Each $225.17 1 $225.17

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 255 $604.35

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 29.25 $63.18

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 384 $368.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 574 - Spring Development

Scenario: #16 - Spring Development

Scenario Description:

Develop a water source from a natural spring or seep (i.e., spring development) to provide water for livestock and/or wildlife needs. This typical scenario includes 

excavating and exposing the water source at the spring/seep (typically on a hillside), constructing a water collection structure by installing a 50 ft long, 4 inch diameter 

HDPE perforated pipe enclosed in a sand/gravel envelope overlaid by 2 ft wide filter fabric (50 ft long) and behind a concrete cutoff wall (6 inch x 4 ft height x 25 ft long) to 

retain water. Water is directed (via 20 ft long, 4 inch PVC) to a spring box (48 inch diameter x 6 ft long CMP) that is located at the cutoff wall or below the wall, equipped 

with a watertight lid and two outlets. One outlet serves as overflow pipe to account for occasions where inflow exceeds outflow. The collection system is commonly 

composed of a single or a network of perforated 4 inch diameter drainage pipe placed in an excavated collection trench that runs across the slope. The outflow pipe from 

the spring box can be directed to buried large storage (not included), and to a watering facility (not included) for use Resource Concern: Livestock production limitation - 

Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices: 516-Livestock Pipeline; 614-Watering Facility; 382-Fence; Critical Area Planting (342).

Before Situation:

Livestock operation with inadequate fresh water for livestock and an on-site undeveloped spring/seep.

After Situation:

Spring development system provides adequate water for the intended use. The system typically runs all year long in most zones.

Feature Measure: Number of Developments

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,797.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,797.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 11 $11.99

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 16 $1,068.96

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 2 $40.88

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 2 $43.02

Spring Collection Box Cover, steel, 1281

4 ft. diameter

4 foot diameter x 1/4 inch thick Steel lid with handle for spring 

collection box. Materials and fabrication.

Each $225.17 1 $225.17

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 40.6 $96.22

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 16.25 $35.10

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 288 $276.48

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 575 - Trails and Walkways

Scenario: #1 - Earthfill Walkway, 4 Ft high or less

Scenario Description:

Layout and construct a lane or travel way of earthfill four feet high or less. Walkway will facilitate animal movement, to provide or improve access to forage, water, 

working/handling facilities, and/or shelter, Improve grazing efficiency and distribution, and/or protect ecologically sensitive, erosive and/or potentially erosive sites and 

address soil erosion and water quality resource concerns. Costs include Earthfill, shaping, grading, and all equipment, labor and incidental materials necessary to install the 

practices.

Before Situation:

On farmstead area and pastureland and rangeland areas where control of animal movement is needed to address soil erosion, forage availability, and water quality 

resource concerns.

After Situation:

The typical trail or walkway will be a 12 foot wide 200 foot long, with an average fill height of 3 feet. All excavation, earthfill, grading and shaping necessary to provide a 

smooth permanent travel surface for livestock. No surface materials are included with this practice. If the lane is vegetated and requires planting, the vegetation shall be 

planted according to Critical Area Planting, Code 342. Where vegetation is not practical, Heavy Use Area Protection, Code 561,shall be used to provide adequate surface 

protection. Structure for Water Control, Code 587, will be used when the trail or lane crosses water areas. Consider the use of water bars or culverts to control and direct 

water flow. Fencing, Code 382, will be used when needed to control animal movement.

Feature Measure: Length of Walkway created

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,699.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 9 $910.89

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 11 $262.68

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 11 $402.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 575 - Trails and Walkways

Scenario: #2 - Earthfill Walkway, Higher than 4 Ft.

Scenario Description:

Layout and construct a lane or travel way of earthfill greater than four feet high. Walkway will facilitate animal movement, to provide or improve access to forage, water, 

working/handling facilities, and/or shelter, Improve grazing efficiency and distribution, and/or protect ecologically sensitive, erosive and/or potentially erosive sites and 

address soil erosion and water quality resource concerns. Costs include Earthfill, shaping, grading, and all equipment, labor and incidental materials necessary to install the 

practices.

Before Situation:

On farmstead area and pastureland and rangeland areas where control of animal movement is needed to address soil erosion, forage availability, and water quality 

resource concerns.

After Situation:

The typical trail or walkway will be a 12 foot wide 300 foot long, with an average fill height of 6 feet. All excavation, earthfill, grading and shaping necessary to provide a 

smooth permanent travel surface for livestock. No surface materials are included with this practice. If the lane is vegetated and requires planting, the vegetation shall be 

planted according to Critical Area Planting, Code 342. Where vegetation is not practical, Heavy Use Area Protection, Code 561,shall be used to provide adequate surface 

protection. Structure for Water Control, Code 587, will be used when the trail or lane crosses water areas. Consider the use of water bars or culverts to control and direct 

water flow. Fencing, Code 382, will be used when needed to control animal movement.

Feature Measure: Length of walkway

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,733.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $25.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 35 $3,542.35

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 37 $1,181.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 37 $883.56

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 37 $1,354.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 575 - Trails and Walkways

Scenario: #52 - Wood Chips, Walkway, 1000 sqft or less

Scenario Description:

Layout and construct a wood chip surface treatment on a earthen foundation walkway to facilitate the movement of animals, people, or small off-road vehicles to provide 

or improve access to forage, water, working/handling facilities, and/or shelter, Improve grazing efficiency and distribution, and/or protect ecologically sensitive, erosive 

and/or potentially erosive sites, pedestrian or off-road vehicle access to agricultural, construction, or maintenance operations, provide walkways for recreational activities 

or access to recreation sites and address the resource concerns of soil erosion and water quality degradation. Costs include excavation, shaping, grading, wood chip 

surfacing, vegetation of disturbed areas, all equipment, labor and incidental materials necessary to install the practice.

Before Situation:

This practice applies on all lands where management of animal or human movement is needed to address soil erosion and water quality resource concerns. This practice 

applies to a trails or walkways constructed for use by small off-road vehicles, such as All-Terrain Vehicles or snowmobiles, which are not designed for use on public roads. 

It does not apply to roads constructed for movement of equipment or vehicles. Use NRCS Conservation Practice Standard Access Road (Code 560).

After Situation:

The typical walkway will be a 6 foot widex100 foot longx4' thick , 600 square foot of wood chip surface treatment on earthen foundation. All excavation, grading and 

shaping necessary to provide a smooth permanent travel surface for livestock or people is included. Included is wood chips of 600 square foot for surfacing.

Feature Measure: sqft of walkway

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,129.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 7 $179.20

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 8 $401.92

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 15 $358.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 67 $139.36
Practice: 576 - Livestock Shelter Structure

Scenario: #1 - Portable Wind Shelter

Scenario Description:

Portable Livestock Fabricated Wind Shelter is installed to provide protection for livestock. The shelter can be moved around the grazing unit in order to prevent heavy use 

resource concerns at any one location.

Before Situation:

Herds are held and fed in fragile riparian areas in order to reduce stress on domestic animals from harsh winter conditions and provide protection from wind. The 

concentration of animals in these areas degrades streambanks, causes excessive sedimentation, damages woody vegetation, overgrazes herbacious vegetation, in addition 

to degrading water quality through manure deposition and erosion. Resource concerns are water quality, animal health, plant productivity, health, and vigor, and 

inadequate shelter.

After Situation:

Portable fabricated wind shelters are utilized to provide shelter for livestock in upland grazing areas from the riparian zones. The portable shelters are moved in rotation 

with feeding areas thereby limiting soil disturbance and reducing the impacts of heavy use at any one location. As a result of implementing this practice, the herd can be 

moved out of the impacted area and water quality and vegetation health resource concerns will be addressed. A typical portable wind shelter involves a series of steel 

framed panels faced with corrugated metal. Each unit is approximately 8 feet tall and 24 feet long, 80% solid faced. Four panels (96 - feet) would be utilized to provide 

shelter to a herd size of 190 animals.

Feature Measure: Length of Wind Shelter

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 96.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,655.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $17.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 1 $19.64

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Materials

Drill Stem, steel, used 1393 Used drill stem typically 2-3/8 or 2-7/8 inch diameter. Materials only. Feet $2.79 352 $982.08
Practice: 576 - Livestock Shelter Structure

Scenario: #2 - Permanent Metal Wind Shelter

Scenario Description:

Permanent livestock fabricated metal wind shelter is installed to provide protection for livestock.

Before Situation:

Herds are held and fed in fragile riparian areas in order to reduce stress on domestic animals from harsh winter conditions and provide protection from wind. The 

concentration of animals in these areas degrade streambanks, cause excessive sedimentation, damage woody vegetation, overgraze herbaceous vegetation, in addition to 

degrading water quality through manure deposition and erosion. Resource concerns are water quality, animal health, plant productivity, health, and vigor, and inadequate 

shelter.

After Situation:

Permanent fabricated metal wind shelters are installed in order to provide shelter for livestock in upland grazing areas away from the riparian zones. As a result, animals 

can be held in an area away from the riparian zone thereby eliminating the impacts to water quality and riparian health. A typical scenario is a Fabricated Wind Shelter 

installed in association with an animal feeding operation (AFO). The AFO has been moved out of the riparian zone where shelter was previously provided by the 

surrounding riparian woody vegetation. The AFO has been moved to a location where shelter is not naturally provided and needs to be fabricated. The typical fabrication 

involves a permanent, metal framed, metal faced, 6 - foot high, 200 - foot long, fabricated wind shelter, 100% solid face, secured to the ground with 12 - foot metal posts. 

The metal posts are spaced 6 - feet apart, buried in the ground 4 feet deep and encased in concrete.

Feature Measure: Length of Wind Shelter

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $31,975.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $159.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 40 $399.20

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 88 $2,252.80

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 16 $586.88

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 24 $471.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 24 $766.08

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Corrugated Steel, 22 gauge 224 Corrugated or ribbed, galvanized, 22 gauge, includes fasteners, 

materials only.

Square Feet $2.18 1200 $2,616.00

Pipe, smooth steel, weight priced 1325 Smooth Steel pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials. Materials 

only.

Pound $3.49 6464.6 $22,561.45

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 576 - Livestock Shelter Structure

Scenario: #9 - Prefabricated Portable Shade Structure

Scenario Description:

A flexible membrane or fabric-like roof placed on a steel or wood portable frame used to promote animal health where prescribed grazing practices have limited livestock 

access to shade. Cost estimate is based upon a 10 ft x 20 ft prefab portable structure. Associated practices include Fence (382), Prescribed Grazing (528), and Watering 

Facility (614). 

Before Situation:

Livestock are being managed using a prescribed grazing plan resulting in a lack of shade during the summer months. The livestock are stressed and eat less frequently.

After Situation:

Livestock shade structures are rotated and sized according to NRCS plans and specifications. Livestock access to water, shade, and forage are dispersed to decrease animal 

stress and promote a better grazing and nutrient spreading.

Feature Measure: Area of Roof Frame

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,334.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 11 $262.68

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

High Tunnel, Quonset style, 2790

Variable Cost

Variable cost portion of a quonset style high tunnel. Includes the 

framework complete with all predrilled steel, hardware and 

instructions. Includes 6 mil 4-year polyethylene film to cover tunnel, 

and poly-lock for sides and ends for a quonset style (round top) hoop 

house. Materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $3.20 200 $640.00
Practice: 576 - Livestock Shelter Structure

Scenario: #10 - Portable Shade Structure

Scenario Description:

A flexible membrane or fabric-like roof placed on a steel or wood portable frame used to promote animal health where prescribed grazing practices have limited livestock 

access to shade. Cost estimate is based upon a 25 ft x 40 ft portable structure. Associated practices include Fence (382), Prescribed Grazing (528), and Watering Facility 

(614). 

Before Situation:

Livestock are being managed using a prescribed grazing plan resulting in a lack of shade during the summer months. The livestock are stressed and eat less frequently.

After Situation:

Livestock shade structures are rotated and sized according to NRCS plans and specifications. Livestock access to water, shade, and forage are dispersed to decrease animal 

stress and promote a better grazing and nutrient spreading.

Feature Measure: Area of Roof Frame

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,653.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Portable Welder 1407 Portable field welder. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $19.64 16 $314.24

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Steel, Plate, 3/16 in. 1048 Flat Steel Plate, 3/16 inch thick, materials only. Square Feet $11.61 2 $23.22

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 17.3 $41.00

Pipe, smooth steel, weight priced 1325 Smooth Steel pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials. Materials 

only.

Pound $3.49 889.5 $3,104.36

Synthetic Liner, 60 mil 2109 Synthetic 60 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc. membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $2.08 1000 $2,080.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 578 - Stream Crossing

Scenario: #1 - Bridge 

Scenario Description:

Install a bridge to allow stream flows to cross under access road or animal trail. Bridge opening determined by sizing for storm event dictated in standard. Scenario 

includes dewatering, abutments, girders, decking. Work consists of site preparation, dewatering, acquiring and installing abutments, girders, decking with necessary 

hardware, backfilling abutments, and armoring with geotextile and riprap. Riprap and geotextile are used to stabilize and protect abutments as needed. Scenario based on 

cast in place concrete abutments, steel girders, and timber deck. Travel surface shall be wooden deck surface. If a different travel surface is needed, refer to another 

appropriate standard for the surfacing. Span is less than 14 feet. Load is H-20. Width is 14 feet including curbs. Abutments are <= 6 feet. Use (396) Aquatic Organism 

Passage instead, when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic.

Before Situation:

Water flow could not cross access road or trail without erosion; or access road or trail could not cross channel.

After Situation:

Access and waterflow are able to cross each other in a stable manner. Stream flow is not impeded and a stable base exists for equipment, people and/or animals to cross. 

Associated practices could be (342) Critical Area Planting, (560) Access Road, (575) Animal Trails and Walkways, (566) Recreational Trails and Walkways, (500) Obstruction 

Removal, or (584) Channel Stabilization. 

Feature Measure: square footage of bridge deck

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 252.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,141.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $68.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 75 $116.25

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 80 $2,553.60

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 20 $2,701.40

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 20 $430.20

Dimension Lumber, untreated 1045 Untreated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 

2 inches. Includes lumber and fasteners.

Board Feet $2.06 2000 $4,120.00

Block, pre-cast concrete, modular 1496 Pre-cast concrete blocks, typically 2ft x 2ft x 6ft , includes installation 

and delivery.

Cubic Yards $146.67 18 $2,640.06

Steel, structural steel members 1779 Structural steel, includes materials and fabrication. Pound $1.78 1500 $2,670.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 578 - Stream Crossing

Scenario: #2 - Culvert installation

Scenario Description:

Install a new culvert. Work includes dewatering, site preparation and removing any old crossing, acquiring and installing culvert pipe with gravel bedding and fill 

(compacted), and building headwalls. If a different travel surface is needed, refer to another appropriate standard for the surfacing. 48 inch Culvert installation with > 75 

cy of fill needed and > 2 yds rock riprap for headwalls. Pipe is 50 feet long. Use (396) Aquatic Organism Passage instead, when the primary intent is biological concerns, 

not hydrologic. Use (587) Structure for Water Control instead, for ditch cross culverts and other intermittent flows.

Before Situation:

Water flow could not cross access road or trail without erosion; or access road or trail could not cross channel.

After Situation:

Access road and waterflow are able to cross each other in a stable manner. Stream flow is not impeded and a stable base exists for equipment, people and/or animals to 

cross. Associated practices could be (342) Critical Area Planting, (560) Access Road, (575) Animal Trails and Walkways, (566) Recreational Trails and Walkways. 

Feature Measure: Culvert

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 2,400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,389.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 460 $1,780.20

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 3 $18.09

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 10 $1,317.50

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 22 $805.20

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 12 $1,620.84

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 2400 $2,304.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 578 - Stream Crossing

Scenario: #3 - Low water crossing, rock armor

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a stream channel using rock riprap. This scenario includes site preparation, dewatering, acquiring and installing gravel or geotextile with 

rock riprap on channel bottom and approaches. Final travel surface shall be rock. If a different travel surface is needed, refer to another appropriate standard for the 

surfacing. Typical stream has 75 foot bottom width and approaches. Width is 12 feet for a total area as 900 square feet. Use (396) Aquatic Organism Passage instead, 

when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic.

Before Situation:

Water flow could not cross access road or trail without erosion; or access road or trail could not cross channel.

After Situation:

Stream flow is not impeded and a stable base exists for equipment, people and/or animals to cross. Associated practices could be (342) Critical Area Planting, (560) Access 

Road, (575) Animal Trails and Walkways, (566) Recreational Trails and Walkways, (500) Obstruction Removal, or (584) Channel Stabilization. 

Feature Measure: Crossing dimensions

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 900.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,807.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 4 $422.72

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 40 $62.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 41.7 $5,632.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 578 - Stream Crossing

Scenario: #4 - Low water crossing, concrete slab

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a stream channel using concrete in place. This scenario includes site preparation, dewatering, acquiring and installing cast in place 

concrete on channel bottom and approaches. Final travel surface shall be concrete. If a different travel surface is needed, refer to another appropriate standard for the 

surfacing. Typical stream has 50 foot bottom width and 8 foot approach on each side. Width is 12 feet for a total area of 792 square feet. Use (396) Aquatic Organism 

Passage instead, when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic.

Before Situation:

Water flow could not cross access road or trail without erosion; or access road or trail could not cross channel.

After Situation:

Stream flow is not impeded and a stable base exists for equipment, people and/or animals to cross. Associated practices could be (342) Critical Area Planting, (560) Access 

Road, (575) Animal Trails and Walkways, (566) Recreational Trails and Walkways, (500) Obstruction Removal, or (584) Channel Stabilization. 

Feature Measure: Crossing dimensions

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 792.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,265.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 19.3 $10,179.59

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 2 $211.36

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 70 $108.50

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 7.3 $149.21

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 578 - Stream Crossing

Scenario: #5 - Low water crossing, concrete block

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a stream channel using articulated concrete block mats. This scenario includes site preparation, dewatering, acquiring and installing 

articulated concrete block mats on channel bottom and approaches. Final travel surface shall be concrete blocks. If a different travel surface is needed, refer to another 

appropriate standard for the surfacing. Typical stream has 50 foot bottom width and 8 foot approach on each side. Width is 12 feet for a total area of 792 square feet. 

Use (396) Aquatic Organism Passage instead, when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic.

Before Situation:

Water flow could not cross access road or trail without erosion; or access road or trail could not cross channel.

After Situation:

Stream flow is not impeded and a stable base exists for equipment, people and/or animals to cross. Associated practices could be (342) Critical Area Planting, (560) Access 

Road, (575) Animal Trails and Walkways, (566) Recreational Trails and Walkways, (500) Obstruction Removal, or (584) Channel Stabilization. 

Feature Measure: Crossing dimensions

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 792.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,560.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 2 $263.50

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 2 $211.36

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 70 $108.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 88 $183.04

Articulated precast concrete block 1906 Articulated precast concrete blocks with a typical thickness of 4.5 to 6 

inches. Includes materials and shipping.

Square Feet $10.26 882 $9,049.32

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 578 - Stream Crossing

Scenario: #6 - Low water crossing, geocell

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a stream channel using geocell mats filled with rock, typically suited for a 'low energy' channel. This scenario includes site preparation, 

dewatering, acquiring and installing geocell mats on channel bottom and approaches. Final travel surface shall be a rock aggregate covering above the geocell. If a 

different travel surface is needed, refer to another appropriate standard for the surfacing. Typical stream has 50 foot bottom width and 8 foot approach on each side. 

Width is 12 feet for a total area of 792 square feet. Use (396) Aquatic Organism Passage instead, when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic.

Before Situation:

Water flow could not cross access road or trail without erosion; or access road or trail could not cross channel.

After Situation:

Stream flow is not impeded and a stable base exists for equipment, people and/or animals to cross. Associated practices could be (342) Critical Area Planting, (560) Access 

Road, (575) Animal Trails and Walkways, (566) Recreational Trails and Walkways, (500) Obstruction Removal, or (584) Channel Stabilization. 

Feature Measure: Crossing dimensions

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 792.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,619.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 2 $211.36

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 70 $108.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 25 $537.75

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 88 $183.04

Geocell, 6 inch 1842 6-inch thick cellular confinement system, three-dimensional, 

expandable panels made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), 

polyester or another polymer material. Includes materials, labor and 

equipment for the geocell only, does not include backfill.

Square Yard $27.24 98 $2,669.52

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #1 - Shaping

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks consisting of conventional plantings of vegetation to stabilize and protect against scour and erosion. The purpose of this practice is to 

maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired aquatic 

species. Payment cost include shaping bank; a 6-foot high bank at 3(H):1(V) slope for 1000 linear feet (0.46 acres) is used for estimation purposes. In order to ensure plant 

community establishment and integrity, a vegetative management plan shall be prepared in accordance with Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 342, Critical Area 

Planting.??? Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive 

Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate 

Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation. Associated Practices include: 560 - Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 

390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover; 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management; 614 - Watering Facility; 484 - Mulching; 570 - Stormwater Runoff Control.

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has marginally 

degraded streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat. 

Feature Measure: Linear Feet of Streambank/Shorelin

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,389.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2500 $6,075.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #2 - Bioengineered

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks consisting of a bioengineered technique comprised of non-structural measures such as earth revetments and benches with vegetative measures 

to stabilize and protect the streambank against scour and erosion. Soil bioengineering is a system of living plant materials used as structural components. Adapted types 

of woody vegetation (shrubs and trees) are initially installed in specified configurations that offer immediate soil protection and reinforcement. In addition, soil 

bioengineering systems create resistance to sliding or shear displacement in a streambank as they develop roots or fibrous inclusions. Environmental benefits derived from 

woody vegetation include diverse and productive riparian habitats, shade, organic additions to the stream, cover for fish, and improvements in aesthetic value and water 

quality. Under certain conditions, soil bioengineering installations work well in conjunction with structures to provide more permanent protection and healthy function, 

enhance aesthetics, and create a more environmentally acceptable product. Soil bioengineering systems normally use unrooted plant parts in the form of cut branches 

and rooted plants. For streambanks, living systems include brushmattresses, live stakes, joint plantings, vegetated geogrids, branchpacking, and live fascines. The 

purpose of this practice is to maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve 

habitat for desired aquatic species. Payment cost include shaping bank, livestake, rootwads and revetments: a 6-foot high bank at 3(H):1(V) slope for 1000 linear feet 

(0.46 acres) is used for estimation purposes. In order to ensure plant community establishment and integrity, a vegetative management plan shall be prepared and paid in 

accordance with Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 342, Critical Area Planting. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and 

Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; 

Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation. Associated Practices include: 560 - 

Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover; 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management; 

614 - Watering Facility; 484 - Mulching; 570 - Storm Runoff Control. 

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has moderately 

degraded streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat. 

Feature Measure: Lineal Feet of Bioengineering Instal

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $32,178.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2500 $6,075.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 25 $3,659.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 380 $9,074.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 75 $2,745.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 90 $4,536.00

Materials

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1308

Medium

Woody cuttings, live stakes or whips typically 1/4 to 1 inch diameter 

and 24 to 48 inches long. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $2.01 1000 $2,010.00

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.883 $2,315.64
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #3 - Rock Riprap

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks using riprap to stabilize and protect banks of streams or excavated channels against scour and erosion. The purpose of this practice is to 

maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired aquatic 

species. Payment cost include shaping bank, geotextile, and rock rip rap; a 6-foot high bank at 3(H):1(V) slope for 1000 linear feet (0.46 acres) is used for estimation 

purposes. The rock toe will be 3' thick and 5' high. The bank above the riprap will be graded to a stable slope and revegetated. In order to ensure plant community 

establishment and integrity, a vegetative management plan shall be prepared and paid in accordance with Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 342, Critical Area 

Planting. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive 

Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate 

Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation. Associated Practices include: 560 - Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 

390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover; 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management; 614 - Watering Facility; 484 - Mulching; 570 - Storm Runoff Control. 

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has severely degraded 

streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has increased 

in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, storage 

capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity 

of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Riprap Installed

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,117.00

Scenario Total Cost: $160,574.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $143.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 2500 $3,875.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 50 $2,520.00

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1117 $150,873.19

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #4 - Gabion

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks using gabions to stabilize and protect banks of streams or excavated channels against scour and erosion. The purpose of this practice is to 

maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired aquatic 

species. Payment cost include shaping bank, geotextile, and rock gabions; a 12-foot high bank for 48 linear feet is used for estimation purposes. The gabions will be 3' 

thick and 3' long stacked 12' high. The bank around the gabion will be graded to a stable slope and revegetated. In order to ensure plant community establishment and 

integrity, a vegetative management plan shall be prepared and paid in accordance with Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 342, Critical Area Planting. Resource 

Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface 

Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and 

Wildlife- Habitat Degradation. Associated Practices include: 560 - Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 390 - Riparian 

Herbaceous Cover; 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management; 614 - Watering Facility; 484 - Mulching; 570 - Storm Runoff Control. 

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has severely degraded 

streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has increased 

in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, storage 

capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity 

of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat. 

Feature Measure: Length of Shoreline protected

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 48.00

Scenario Total Cost: $32,920.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $685.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 100 $333.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 150 $232.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 50 $2,520.00

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 75 $146.25

Gabion basket or mat 1378 Gabion baskets or mats installed and filled on grade, includes materials, 

transport, equipment, and labor, does not include geotextile fabric.

Cubic Yards $202.38 128 $25,904.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #20 - Bioengineering, Bankfull Bench with Vegetation

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks consisting of plantings of rhizomatous vegetation and establishment/re-establishment of a bankfull bench to stabilize and protect against scour 

and erosion. Environmental benefits derived from woody vegetation include diverse and productive riparian habitats, shade, organic additions to the stream, cover for 

fish, and improvements in aesthetic value and water quality. The purpose of this practice is to maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of 

a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired aquatic species. Payment cost include protection by re-establishing riparian-corridor 

vegetation through use of annual grasses/ fescue (upland/terrace), shrubs (seedlings or t+B1ransplants) willows cuttings/willow revetments, vertical willow bundles, and 

bankfull bench construction, bank shaping, and erosion control fabric. Establishment of bankfull bench; 10- to 20-foot width, 6-foot high terrace bank at 3:1 slope for 1000 

linear feet (0.46 acres) is used for typical scenario. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and Water Conveyance Channels; 

Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive 

Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation. Associated Practices include: 560 - Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 

382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover; 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management; 614 - Watering Facility; 484-Mulching; 

570-Stormwater Runoff Control.

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has marginally 

degraded streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet of Streambank/Shorelin

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $41,660.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2500 $6,075.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 0.46 $6.51

Front End Loader, 185 HP 1619 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 160 to 210. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $105.49 32 $3,375.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 416 $9,934.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 32 $1,171.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 104 $5,241.60

Materials

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 2222 $3,599.64

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 3000 $6,060.00
Shrub, Potted, Medium 1527 Potted shrub seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $14.34 200 $2,868.00

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 0.5 $20.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #21 - Structural, Toewood w/VESL 

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks using toewood (large wood members with root wads) as a structural measure in conjunction with bioengineering techniques involving 

Vegetated Engineered Soil Lifts (VESL's) to stabilize and protect the streambank against scour and erosion. Environmental benefits derived from woody vegetation include 

diverse and productive riparian habitats, shade, organic additions to the stream, cover for fish, and improvements in aesthetic value and water quality. The purpose of 

this practice is to maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for 

desired aquatic species. Payment cost include protection by use of large wood members with root wads, willow cuttings, bankfull bench construction using Vegetated 

Engineered Soil Lifts (VESL), bank shaping, riparian-corridor revegetation, geotextile, and rock riprap to establish grade/fill void spaces. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - 

Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality 

Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat 

Degradation. Associated Practices include: 560 - Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover; 395 - 

Stream Habitat Improvement and Management; 614 - Watering Facility

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has moderately 

degraded streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet of Streambank/Shorelin

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $125,141.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $125.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 5333 $5,812.97

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2500 $9,675.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 168.75 $24,701.63

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 0.12 $1.70

Excavation, common earth, wet, 1228

side cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of wet common earth with hydraulic 

excavator or dragline with greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $4.55 2500 $11,375.00

Front End Loader, 185 HP 1619 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 160 to 210. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $105.49 36 $3,797.64

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 117.5 $2,805.90

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 204.75 $7,493.85

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 112 $5,644.80

Materials
Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 138.89 $18,759.87

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 5333 $11,092.64

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 2222 $3,599.64

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 1000 $2,020.00

Shrub, Potted, Medium 1527 Potted shrub seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $14.34 200 $2,868.00

Root Wad 2045 Tree stump buried into the streambank with the roots left exposed. 

Includes material only.

Ton $7.93 1220 $9,674.60

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 0.5 $20.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 4 $3,727.76
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #22 - Structural, Rock Vane w/Vegetation

Scenario Description:

Protection of streambanks using large rock (boulder) as a structural measure to stabilize and protect banks of streams or excavated channels against scour and erosion. 

The purpose of this practice is to maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve 

habitat for desired aquatic species. The addition of at least 6 additional large rocks (3 header and 3 footer) placed in a semi-circular pattern with significant gaps at the 

invert of the vane will provide aquatic habitat not created in the typical rock vane. Environmental benefits derived from woody vegetation include diverse and productive 

riparian habitats, shade, organic additions to the stream, cover for fish, and improvements in aesthetic value and water quality. The purpose of this practice is to 

maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired aquatic 

species. Payment cost include bankfull bench construction, bank shaping, riparian-corridor revegetation, geotextile, and rock riprap to establish grade/fill void spaces. 6-

foot high bank at 3(H):1(V) slope for 1000 linear feet; 1000 ton of mass with physical properties of dolomite, 2.65 specific gravity, 62.4 lb/ft3 density of water which results 

in 165.36 lb/ft3 material density, 2,000,000 lbs mass, 12,095 ft3 volume for total cubic yards of 448 which is used for the typical scenario. The rock toe will be 3' thick and 

5' high. The bank at the top horizon of the riprap (at bankfull) will be graded to a stable slope and revegetated. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion 

from Streams, Shoreline and Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated 

Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation. Associated 

Practices include: 560 - Access Road; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - Fence; 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer; 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover; 395 - Stream Habitat 

Improvement and Management; 614 - Watering Facility

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and has had all of the woody vegetation removed due to overgrazing or human manipulation; the stream has severely degraded 

streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has increased 

in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, storage 

capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity 

of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet of Streambank/Shorelin

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $99,692.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $99.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 2500 $9,675.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 80 $11,710.40

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 0.1 $1.42

Excavation, common earth, wet, 1228

side cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of wet common earth with hydraulic 

excavator or dragline with greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $4.55 2858.1 $13,004.36

Front End Loader, 185 HP 1619 Wheeled front end loader with horsepower range of 160 to 210. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $105.49 36 $3,797.64

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 256 $6,113.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 116 $4,245.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 64 $3,225.60
Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 138.9 $18,761.22

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 1333.2 $2,599.74

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 556 $900.72

Shrub, Potted, Medium 1527 Potted shrub seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $14.34 200 $2,868.00

Boulder 1761 Rock boulders (approximately 5 ft dia. 6.67 Tons). Includes materials 

and delivery (up to 100 miles) only. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $94.75 178.2 $16,884.45

Root Wad 2045 Tree stump buried into the streambank with the roots left exposed. 

Includes material only.

Ton $7.93 12 $95.16

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 0.3 $12.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 4 $3,727.76
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #26 - Rock Riprap with High Earthwork Volume

Scenario Description:

Protection of deeply incised streambanks using riprap to stabilize and protect banks of streams or excavated channels against scour and erosion. The purpose of this 

practice is to maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired 

aquatic species. Payment cost includes shaping bank, shaping a bankfull bench 20-foot width on both sides of the channel, geotextile, and rock riprap; a 15-foot high bank 

at 3(H):1(V) slope for 1000 linear feet (1.1 acres) is used for estimation purposes. The rock toe will be 3' thick and 4' high. The bank above the riprap will be graded to a 

stable slope and revegetated. In order to ensure plant community establishment and integrity, a vegetative management plan shall be prepared and paid in accordance 

with Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 342, Critical Area Planting. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline and Water 

Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; Excess/Insufficient 

Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation.

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and much of the woody vegetation is gone due to channel instability, overgrazing, or human manipulation; the stream has 

severely degraded streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment 

load has increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance 

capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, 

reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Length of installed rock riprap toe 

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $294,114.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $294.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 48 $4,858.08

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 105 $13,833.75

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 381 $37,330.38

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 276 $29,167.68

Excavation, common earth, wet, 1228

side cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of wet common earth with hydraulic 

excavator or dragline with greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $4.55 19900 $90,545.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 121 $2,889.48

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 735 $22,887.90

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 115 $4,209.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 50 $2,520.00

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 2108 $78,312.20

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 2690 $5,245.50

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.883 $2,315.64
Practice: 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

Scenario: #27 - Bioengineering with High Earthwork Volume

Scenario Description:

Protection of deeply incised streambanks consisting of plantings of rhizomatous vegetation and establishment/re-establishment of a bankfull bench to stabilize and 

protect against scour and erosion. Environmental benefits derived from woody vegetation include diverse and productive riparian habitats, shade, organic additions to the 

stream, cover for fish, and improvements in aesthetic value and water quality. The purpose of this practice is to maintain, improve, or restore physical, chemical, and 

biological functions of a stream to provide diverse aquatic communities to improve habitat for desired aquatic species. Payment cost include protection by re-establishing 

riparian-corridor vegetation through use of annual grasses/ fescue (upland/terrace), shrubs (seedlings or t+B1ransplants) willows cuttings/willow revetments, vertical 

willow bundles, and bankfull bench construction, bank shaping, and erosion control fabric. Establishment of bankfull bench 10- to 20-foot width; excavation also includes 

15-foot high bank at 3:1 slope for 1000 linear feet; 1.1 acres is used for typical scenario. Resource Concerns: Soil Erosion - Excessive Bank Erosion from Streams, Shoreline 

and Water Conveyance Channels; Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Water Quality Degradation - Elevated Water Temperature; 

Excess/Insufficient Water - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters; Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife- Habitat Degradation.

Before Situation:

A stream bisects the agricultural property and and much of the woody vegetation is gone due to channel instability, overgrazing, or human manipulation; the stream has 

marginally degraded streambanks that are unstable and show signs of active erosion. Soil Erosion: The streambank is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The 

sediment load has increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water 

conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, 

reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

The streambank is stable against further erosion and encourages natural sediment transport and deposition. Loss of riparian areas and sediment load is reduced in the 

stream. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Length of installed bioengineering 

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $117,727.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $117.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 12500 $30,375.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 24 $1,896.96

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 206 $20,183.88

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 1.1 $15.57

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 174 $18,388.32

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 416 $9,934.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 32 $1,171.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 104 $5,241.60

Materials

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 5324 $8,624.88

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 6000 $12,120.00
Shrub, Potted, Medium 1527 Potted shrub seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $14.34 400 $5,736.00

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 1.1 $44.87

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 3 $2,315.64

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 582 - Open Channel

Scenario: #1 - Excavate & Fill

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction or improvement of a channel in which water flows with a free surface. Typical construction dimensions are 3-4' deep x 30' wide bottom x 

2000' length with a side slope of 6:1. The practice is used for the restoration of a natural or artificial channel to improve the process and ecological function in a degraded 

and eroding stream. Excavation and earth fill is required. Conditions are difficult. Difficult conditions include: a location that requires a significant drive off the main road, 

soils with large rock or difficult clay to excavate, and/or other aspects that create difficulty in excavation compared to similar work in the area. Construction may include 

vegetation and/or a lightly armored bank toe. This scenario assists in addressing the resource concerns: streambank erosion, sediment deposition, excessive flooding or 

ponding. Conservation practices that may be associated are: 356-Dike, 587-Structure For Water Control, 533-Pumping Plant, 580 Streambank and Shoreline Protection, 

584 Channel Stabilization, 578 Stream Crossing.

Before Situation:

A stream or channel with active streambank erosion or headcuts and inadequate capacity to handle the flow needed for flood prevention, drainage or erosion prevention.

After Situation:

An earthen channel was excavated to allow unrestricted flow of water and to stabilize the bottom and side slopes. Flooding and erosion is no longer a resource concern.

Feature Measure: Volume of earth excavated in CY's

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 9,920.00

Scenario Total Cost: $24,036.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 16 $1,619.36

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 110 $16,101.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 126 $4,611.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 582 - Open Channel

Scenario: #13 - excavation, difficult conditions

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction or improvement of a channel in which water flows with a free surface. Typical construction dimensions are 6' deep x 15' wide bottom x 

100' length with a side slope of 2.5:1. The practice is used for the restoration of a natural or artificial channel to improve the process and ecological function in a degraded 

and eroding stream. Conditions are difficult. Difficult conditions include: a location that requires a significant drive off the main road, soils with large rock or difficult clay to 

excavate, and/or other aspects that create difficulty in excavation compared to similar work in the area. Construction may include vegetation and/or a lightly armored 

bank toe. This scenario assists in addressing the resource concerns: streambank erosion, sediment deposition, excessive flooding or ponding. Conservation practices that 

may be associated are: 356-Dike, 587-Structure For Water Control, 533-Pumping Plant, 580 Streambank and Shoreline Protection, 584 Channel Stabilization, 578 Stream 

Crossing.

Before Situation:

A stream or channel with active streambank erosion or headcuts and inadequate capacity to handle the flow needed for flood prevention, drainage or erosion prevention.

After Situation:

An earthen channel was excavated to allow unrestricted flow of water and to stabilize the bottom and side slopes. Flooding and erosion is no longer a resource concern.

Feature Measure: Volume of earth excavated in CY's

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,581.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 500 $1,215.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 582 - Open Channel

Scenario: #14 - excavation and fill, normal conditions

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction or improvement of a channel in which water flows with a free surface. Typical construction dimensions are 6' deep x 15' wide bottom x 

100' length with a side slope of 2.5:1. Excavation and earth fill is required. The practice is used for the restoration of a natural or artificial channel to improve the process 

and ecological function in a degraded and eroding stream. Conditions are normal. Normal conditions include: a location easily accessible from a main road, soils without 

large rock or difficult clay to excavate, and/or other aspects that are average compared to excavation work in the area. This scenario assists in addressing the resource 

concerns: streambank erosion, sediment deposition, excessive flooding or ponding. Conservation practices that may be associated are: 356-Dike, 587-Structure For Water 

Control, 533-Pumping Plant, 580 Streambank and Shoreline Protection, 584 Channel Stabilization, 578 Stream Crossing.

Before Situation:

A stream or channel with active streambank erosion or headcuts and inadequate capacity to handle the flow needed for flood prevention, drainage or erosion prevention.

After Situation:

An earthen channel was excavated to allow unrestricted flow of water and to stabilize the bottom and side slopes. Some fill was used to complete the channel shape. 

Flooding and erosion is no longer a resource concern.

Feature Measure: Volume of earth excavated in CY's

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,921.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 500 $1,215.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 500 $1,935.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 584 - Channel Bed Stabilization

Scenario: #1 - Bio-engineering

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a stream channel using bioengineering methods. Bio-engineering methods include live stakes, fascines, plantings, bare root stock, 

willow waddles, and live stakes. Re-vegetation of exposed surfaces will be completed using 342 - Critical Area Planting. Typical stream has 50 foot bottom width and 6 

foot banks. Length of area 100 feet. Planting bank area at a 2x2 grid with live stakes, potted plants, and bare root mix

Before Situation:

Bed of an existing or newly constructed alluvial or threshold channel is undergoing damaging aggradation or degradation. Stream cannot be feasibly controlled with 

clearing and snagging, vegetation, bank protection or upstream water control. Soil Erosion: The stream is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream. 

After Situation:

Stream channel is stable and vegetated. Other associated practices could be (326) Clearing and Snagging, (396 ) Aquatic Organism Passage, (395) Stream Habitat 

Improvement and Management, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection, or (587) Structure for Water Control. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water 

Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance 

capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes 

survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Area of planting

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,300.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 40 $1,467.20

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 200 $168.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 63 $1,504.44

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 41 $2,066.40

Materials

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 800 $1,296.00

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 700 $1,414.00

Wattles or fascines, 6 to 8 inch 1904

diameter

Fascines, or wattles: bundles of live tree stems of species that sprout 

roots, bound together, 6-8 inch diameter. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Feet $9.16 200 $1,832.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 584 - Channel Bed Stabilization

Scenario: #3 - Wood structures

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a stream channel using engineered structures consisting primarily of wood. This includes but not limited to toe wood, log weirs, log 

vanes, root wads, log step pools, etc. Re-vegetation of exposed surfaces will be completed using 342 - Critical Area Planting. Typical stream has 50 foot bottom width and 

6 foot banks. Length of area 100 feet. Structures spaced at 50 foot intervals.

Before Situation:

Bed of an existing or newly constructed alluvial or threshold channel is undergoing damaging aggradation or degradation. Changes cannot be controlled feasibly with 

clearing and snagging, vegetation, bank protection or upstream water control. Soil Erosion: The stream is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream. 

After Situation:

Stream channel is stable. Re-vegetation of exposed surfaces will be completed using 342 - Critical Area Planting. Other associated practices could be (326) Clearing and 

Snagging, (396 ) Aquatic Organism Passage, (395) Stream Habitat Improvement and Management, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection, or (587) Structure for Water 

Control. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Number of structures 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,484.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,494.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 40 $97.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 42 $1,002.96

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 75 $10,130.25

Wattles or fascines, 9 to 12 inch 1905

diameter

Fascines, or wattles: bundles of live tree stems of species that sprout 

roots, bound together, 9-12 inch diameter. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Feet $12.98 150 $1,947.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 584 - Channel Bed Stabilization

Scenario: #15 - Log and Boulder Check Dam

Scenario Description:

Typical project involves a series of check dams, to raise the bottom elevation of an incised stream channel. Cost estimate is based upon a typical scenario involving a 35 ft 

wide bankfull channel, incised to a 12 ft maximum depth and restored to a 2.5 ft max depth. These structures are utilized on the downstream end of a proposed 

restoration reach, to raise the channel up to it???s stable, natural elevation. The upstream reach may be restored via 580- Open Channel, or left to aggrade naturally. 

Structures are intended as a temporary (<20 years) measure, to encourage natural beaver activity to re-establish in the reach. Many times beaver transplants to the area 

are done in conjunction with channel stabilization work. The cost to construct these structures (quantity of materials), is variable by their height. To develop a 

???typical??? structure for the cost list and intermediate depth was used. A combination of boulders, and excavator driving ???piling??? logs, are used to counteract 

buoyancy and overturning/sliding forces. Boulders, and smaller graded riprap, are used to construct both bed and bank keys to prevent flanking and failure due to scour. 

The unit of payment measurement is bankfull channel width. Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as soil 

erosion-concentrated flow erosion and water quality degradation.

Before Situation:

Bed of an existing alluvial channel is undergoing degradation. Changes cannot be controlled feasibly with clearing and snagging, vegetation, bank protection or upstream 

water control.

After Situation:

Stream channel is stable. Re-vegetation of exposed surfaces will be completed using 342 - Critical Area Planting. Other associated practices could be (582) Open Channel.

Feature Measure: Bankfull Channel Width

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 35.00

Scenario Total Cost: $42,593.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,216.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 8 $809.68

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 40 $5,270.00

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 8 $783.84

Truck, dump, 18 CY 1400 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 25 ton or 18 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.29 10 $1,052.90

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 64 $2,342.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 509 $18,909.35

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 100 $202.00

Boulder 1761 Rock boulders (approximately 5 ft dia. 6.67 Tons). Includes materials 

and delivery (up to 100 miles) only. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $94.75 81 $7,674.75

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 8.4 $151.87

Log, un-anchored 2035 Price of log picked up at the Mill. Includes material only. Ton $176.38 25 $4,409.50
Practice: 584 - Channel Bed Stabilization

Scenario: #24 - Rock Structure for Deeply Incised Channel

Scenario Description:

Stabilize the bottom and slope of a deeply incised stream channel using rock riprap or engineered products that consist primarily of rock or concrete. This includes but is 

not limited to gabions, rock vanes, rock weirs, concrete blocks, etc. The typical stream has a 50 foot bottom width and a 15 foot high bank. Length of installation area is 

100 feet. Installation is on a degrading channel that needs armor on the entire wetted perimeter to a 6 foot height to stabilize the channel bed. Install willows to roughen 

channel and reduce flow velocity.

Before Situation:

Bed of an existing or newly constructed alluvial or threshold channel is undergoing damaging aggradation or degradation. Changes cannot be controlled feasibly with 

clearing and snagging, vegetation, bank protection or upstream water control. Soil Erosion: The stream is unstable. Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has 

increased in the stream resulting in elevated water temperatures. Excess/Insufficient Water: The excessive sediment load has reduced the water conveyance capacity, 

storage capacity and flow within the stream. Inadequate Habitat for Fish and Wildlife: The deficiencies in the stream's habitat limit survival, growth, reproduction, and/or 

diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream.

After Situation:

Stream channel is stable. Re-vegetation of exposed surfaces will be completed using 342 - Critical Area Planting. Other associated practices could be (326) Clearing and 

Snagging, (396 ) Aquatic Organism Passage, (395) Stream Habitat Improvement and Management, (580) Streambank and Shoreline Protection, or (587) Structure for Water 

Control. For Soil Erosion: The streambank is stable. For Water Quality Degradation: The sediment load has decreased in the stream resulting in improved aquatic 

habitat. For Excess/Insufficient Water: The water conveyance capacity, storage capacity and flow within the stream has been stabilized. For Inadequate Habitat for Fish 

and Wildlife: The reduction in the sediment load promotes survival, growth, reproduction, and/or diversity of aquatic organisms within the stream's habitat.

Feature Measure: Volume of installed rock

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 575.00

Scenario Total Cost: $57,816.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $100.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Clearing and Grubbing 40 Clearing and Grubbing, includes materials, equipment and labor Acres $285.13 0.2 $57.03

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 57 $8,343.66

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 57 $5,584.86

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 71 $1,695.48

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 134 $4,904.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 856 $31,800.40

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 856 $1,669.20

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 100 $202.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 585 - Stripcropping

Scenario: #4 - Stripcropping - wind and water erosion

Scenario Description:

This scenario describes the implementation of a strip cropping system that is designed specifically for the control of wind and water erosion or minimizing the transport of 

sediments or other water borne contaminants originating from runoff on cropland. The planned strip cropping system will meet the current 585 standard. Implementation 

will result in alternating strips of erosion susceptible crops with erosion resistant crops that are oriented as close to perpendicular to water flows as possible. The designed 

system will reduce erosion/sediment/contaminants to desired objectives. The scenario includes the costs of designing the system, installing the strips on the landscape 

appropriately, and integrating a crop rotation that includes water erosion resistant species.

Before Situation:

In this geographic area, excessive water erosion is caused by raising crops in a manner that allows sheet water flows to travel down the slope causing sheet and rill erosion 

or concentrated flow conditions, degradation of soil health through loss of topsoil and organic matter, along with offsite negative impacts to water quality and aquatic 

wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

A strip cropping system that includes at least two or more strips within the planning slope will be designed to include parallel strips of approximately equal widths of water 

erosion resistant crop species with non-water erosion resistant crop species. Widths will be determined using current water erosion prediction technology to meet 

objectives. The design and implementation of a stripcropping system will minimize wind, sheet and rill erosion, protect soil quality, reduce offsite sedimentation, and 

benefit offsite aquatic wildlife habitat. Erosion prediction before and after practice application will be recorded showing the design and benefits of the practice. Erosion 

resistant strips in rotation must be managed to maintain the planned vegetative cover and surface roughness.

Feature Measure: area of strips

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $148.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #1 - Inlet Flashboard Riser, Metal - Reg 1

Scenario Description:

A Flashboard Riser fabricated of metal used in a water management system that maintains a desired water surface elevation, controls the direction or rate of flow, or 

conveys water to address the resource concerns: Inadequate Water - Inefficient use of Irrigation Water and Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife. The water surface 

elevation is controlled by addition or removal of slats or 'stoplogs'. This scenario is applicable to variable crest weir structures where the elevation is controlled at the inlet 

(Half-Rounds). Payment rate is based upon the Flashboard Weir Length in inches multiplied by the outlet length in feet (Inch-Foot). Cost estimate is based on a 'HalfRound' flashboard riser shop fabricated using a longitudinal cut 36' Corrugated Metal Pipe, a 50' long - 30' CMP outlet passing through an embankment. Earthwork is 

included in the associated practice.

Before Situation:

The operator presently flood irrigates his field and has no means to accurately maintain a constant water level at various elevations resulting in a lack of flexibility, and 

inefficient use of water and energy during pumping. The operator also desires to maintain a permanent pool for waterfowl during the winter.

After Situation:

The operator has the capability to more efficiently control and maintain a range of water surface elevations thereby reducing the flow rate needed. Less water is wasted 

and both water and energy are conserved. The operator is able to maintain adequate water during the winter as a benefit to waterfowl. Any needed re-vegetation of 

disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Irrigation Water Management (449), Irrigation Land Leveling (464), Irrigation Canal or 

Lateral (320), Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery (447), Dike (356), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Flashboard Weir Length (in) x barre

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1,800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,679.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 28 $168.84

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 8 $817.12

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Materials

Steel, Angle, 2 1/2 in. x 2 1/2 in. x 1372

1/4 in.

Materials: Angle, 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch x 1/4 inch. Meets ASTM A36 Feet $4.32 24 $103.68

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 2344 $2,250.24

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 30 $104.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #2 - Inline Flashboard Riser, Metal - Reg 1

Scenario Description:

A Flashboard Riser fabricated of metal and used in a water management system that maintains a desired water surface elevation, controls the direction or rate of flow, or 

conveys water to address the resource concerns: Inadequate Water - Inefficient use of Irrigation Water and Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife. The water surface 

elevation is controlled by addition or removal of slats or 'stoplogs'. This scenario is applicable to variable crest weir structures where the elevation is controlled at the 

embankment. Payment rate is based upon the Flashboard Weir Length in inches multiplied by the outlet length in feet (Inch-Foot). Cost estimate is based on a 36' 

corrugated metal flashboard riser shop fabricated with flashboard channels at the midpoint, and a 50' long - 30' CMP outlet passing through an embankment. Earthwork 

is included in the associated pracitce.

Before Situation:

The operator presently flood irrigates his field and has no means to accurately maintain a constant water level at varying elevations resulting in a lack of flexibility, and 

inefficient use of water and energy during pumping. The operator also desires to maintain a permanent pool for waterfowl during the winter.

After Situation:

The operator has the capability to more efficiently control and maintain a range of water surface elevations thereby reducing the flow rate needed. Less water is wasted 

and both water and energy is conserved. The operator is now able to maintain adequate water during the winter as a benefit to waterfowl. Any needed re-vegetation of 

disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Irrigation Water Management (449), Irrigation Land Leveling (464), Irrigation Canal or 

Lateral (320), Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery (447), Dike (356), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Flashboard Weir Length (in) x Barre

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1,800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,681.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 2 $1,054.88

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 28 $168.84

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 10 $1,021.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Steel, Angle, 2 1/2 in. x 2 1/2 in. x 1372

1/4 in.

Materials: Angle, 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch x 1/4 inch. Meets ASTM A36 Feet $4.32 24 $103.68

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 3164 $3,037.44

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 30 $104.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #3 - Commercial Inline Flashboard Riser - NP Reg 1

Scenario Description:

An Inline Water Control Structure (WCS) composed of plastic that maintains a desired water surface elevation, controls the direction or rate of flow, or conveys water to 

address the resource concern: Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife. The water surface elevation is controlled by addition or removal of slats or 'stoplogs'. This 

scenario is applicable to variable crest weir structures where the elevation is controlled at point along a pipe extending through an embankment, providing ease of access 

to the structure and provide better protection against beaver activity. There are commercially available models composed of plastic that are commonly used when the 

width of the weir is 24' or less. Payment rate is based upon the Flashboard Weir Length in inches multiplied by the outlet length in feet (Inch-Foot). Cost estimate is based 

on a using such a commercial product. The typical scenario is an inline structure with a width of 24' and height of six feet. The pipe is 70' of 18' PVC (inlet and outlet 

combined). Earthwork is included in the associated practice.

Before Situation:

The landowner wishes to provide for a way to control the water surface elevation in a wetland area. The landowner wishes to enhance and enlarge the area to provide 

habitat for fish and wildlife. 

After Situation:

A WCS is installed in a flow line allowing shallow water impoundments. A wetland area is enhanced and water levels can be varied to better accommodate wildlife needs. 

Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Wetland Creation (658), Wetland Enhancement (659) 

Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management (644), Dike (356), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Flashboard Weir Length (in) x Barre

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1,680.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,484.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 15 $90.45

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 4 $408.56

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 1383.2 $3,444.17

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2145

Inline, fixed costs portion

Fixed cost portion of Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog type. 

Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Materials only.

Each $367.01 1 $367.01

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2146

Inline, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog 

type. Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Calculate total 

variable costs by multiplying by the structure height x pipe diameter. 

Materials only.

Height x $18.68 144 $2,689.92

Diameter

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #4 - Culvert <30 inches HDPE - NP Reg 1

Scenario Description:

Install a new HDPE culvert under 30 inches in diameter to convey water under roads or other barriers. A typical scenario would be an 24 inch diameter pipe, 40 feet in 

length. Work includes site preparation, acquiring and installing culvert pipe with gravel bedding and fill (compacted), and riprap protection of side slopes. Use (396) 

Aquatic Organism Passage when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic. Use (578) Stream Crossing for culverts = 30 inches or perennial flow. Earthwork 

is included in the associated practice.

Before Situation:

Water flow needs to be conveyed under an access road, ditch or other barrier. Water must be conveyed in a controlled fashion.

After Situation:

Water is conveyed in a controlled manner. Associated practices could be Access Road (560), Animal Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342), Drainage Water 

Management (554), Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320), Irrigation Pipeline (430), Irrigation Reservoir (436), Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface (443), Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery (447), Irrigation Water Management (449), Lined Waterway or Outlet (468), Obstruction Removal (500), Pond (378), Stormwater Runoff Control (570), 

Surface Drain, Field Ditch (607), Surface Drain, Main or Lateral (608), and Trails and Walkways (568). 

Feature Measure: Pipe Diameter (In) x Pipe Length (Ft

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,223.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 20 $120.60

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 7 $714.98

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 7 $217.98

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 22 $2,971.54

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 5 $107.55

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 440.8 $1,079.96

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #5 - Culvert <30 inches CMP - NP Reg 1

Scenario Description:

Install a new Corrugated Metal Pipe (CMP) culvert under 30 inches in diameter to convey water under roads or other barriers. A typical scenario would be an 24 inch 

diameter pipe, 40 feet in length. Work includes site preparation, acquiring and installing culvert pipe with gravel bedding and fill (compacted), and riprap protection of side 

slopes. Use (396) Aquatic Organism Passage when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic. Use (578) Stream Crossing instead for culverts = 30 inches or 

perennial flow. Earthwork is included in the associated practice.

Before Situation:

Water flow needs to be conveyed under an access road, ditch or other barrier. Water must be conveyed in a controlled fashion.

After Situation:

Water is conveyed in a controlled manner. Associated practices could be Access Road (560), Animal Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342), Drainage Water 

Management (554), Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320), Irrigation Pipeline (430), Irrigation Reservoir (436), Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface (443), Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery (447), Irrigation Water Management (449), Lined Waterway or Outlet (468), Obstruction Removal (500), Pond (378), Stormwater Runoff Control (570), 

Surface Drain, Field Ditch (607), Surface Drain, Main or Lateral (608), and Trails and Walkways (568). 

Feature Measure: Pipe Diameter (In) x Pipe Length (Ft

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,821.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 20 $120.60

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 9 $919.26

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 14 $334.32

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 9 $329.40

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 22 $2,971.54

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 5 $107.55

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 1320 $1,267.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #6 - Slide Gate - Flood Dike

Scenario Description:

This scenario includes installation of 15' CMP with a 15' slide gate (screw activated) through a flood control dike. Pipe is typically 48 feet long. During normal conditions 

the pipe provides un-restricted drainage from areas protedcted by the dike. During high water events on the downstream side of the dike, the gate can be closed to 

prevent flood water from backing into the protected area above the dike.

Before Situation:

A dike to protect an area from flooding is either in place or planned. Adequate drainage is required during normal operating periods to prevent saturating the area being 

protected, and flood waters need to be prevented from entering during periods of flooding.

After Situation:

Tide or flood inundation is controlled. Associated practices could be Dike (356), Field Ditch (607), Surface Drain, Main or Lateral (608). After installation of the Dike and 

Water Control Structure, the area protected by the dike will have proper drainage and protection during high water conditions downstream.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 48.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,791.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $79.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 50 $301.50

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 7 $714.98

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 14 $334.32

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 7 $256.20

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 308.6 $756.07

Slide gate, steel, 2 ft. diameter, 1829

low head

2 ft. diameter steel slide gate for low head installations Each $657.00 1 $657.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #10 - Rock Check

Scenario Description:

This is a structure constructed with rock placed in existing, recently formed and active minor gullies located near the upper end of a watershed. Multiple structures are 

generally required, with downstream structures placed to force tail water at an upstream structure. The furthest upstream structure is located to control existing head 

cutting. Resource concerns addressed included gully erosion and water quality.

Before Situation:

Small gullies are actively forming in locations with reletively small drainage areas that result in increased downstream sedimentation and decreased water quality.

After Situation:

Construction of the structures will result in preventing further head cutting in the channel and improved downstream water quality due to a decrease of sediment in the 

runoff. Construction will consist of minor site shaping, excavaton to tie rock into the embankment, and placement of rock rip rap. Typical dimensions used are 2:1 

upstream slope, 5:1 downstream slope with a 3' top width, approximately 4' wide within the channel. The rock will be placed in a key way 1' deep with 1:1 side slopes 

located below the level top section. The typical height is 3' above the existing channel elevation. 

Feature Measure: Number of Structures

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,746.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,746.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 3 $395.25

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 3 $109.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 10 $371.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #11 - Earth Check

Scenario Description:

This is a structure constructed with compacted earth placed in existing, recently formed and active, minor gullies located near the upper end of a watershed. Multiple 

structures are generally required, with downstream structures placed to force tail water at an upstream structure. The furthest upstream structure is located to control 

existing head cutting. Resource concerns addressed included gully erosion and water quality.

Before Situation:

Small gullies are actively forming in locations with reletively small drainage areas that result in increased downstream sedimentation and decreased water quality.

After Situation:

Construction of the structures will result in preventing further head cutting in the channel and improved downstream water quality due to a decrease of sediment in the 

runoff. Construction will consist of minor site shaping, and placement of earthfill. Typical dimensions used are 3:1 upstream slope, 5:1 downstream slope with a 3' top 

width, approximately 4' wide within the channel. The typical height is 3' above the existing channel elevation. 

Feature Measure: Number of Structures

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,311.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,311.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 10 $60.30

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 10 $33.30

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 2 $195.96

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Turf reinforcement mat 1212 Synthetic turf reinforcement mat with staple anchoring. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor.

Square Yard $9.82 18 $176.76

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #12 - Buried Automatic Valve

Scenario Description:

A buried inline water control valve constructed of plastic that maintains a desired water surface, controls the direction or rate of flow, or conveys water to address 

resource concerns. The water surface elevation is automatically controlled. Cost estimate is based on using a commercially available product.

Before Situation:

The landowner wishes to provide a way to control the water surface elevation in tile drained land.

After Situation:

The water surface elevation in the tile drained land is controlled with an automatic valve to provide a 1' increase in water level elevation upstream of each valve.

Feature Measure: No. of Valves

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,083.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,083.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 2 $12.06

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 1 $102.14

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Water Level Control Valve, Inline 2189 Automatic float valve for drainage pipes up to 8 inch dia. To maintain 

head differential in flowing agricultural drains.

Each $607.24 1 $607.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #194 - Commercial Inline Flashboard Riser

Scenario Description:

An Inline Water Control Structure (WCS) composed of plastic that maintains a desired water surface elevation, controls the direction or rate of flow, or conveys water to 

address the resource concern: Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife. The water surface elevation is controlled by addition or removal of slats or 'stoplogs'. This 

scenario is applicable to variable crest weir structures where the elevation is controlled at point along a pipe extending through an embankment, providing ease of access 

to the structure and provide better protection against beaver activity. There are commercially available models composed of plastic that are commonly used when the 

width of the is 24' or less. Payment rate is based upon the Flashboard Weir Length in inches multiplied by the outlet length in feet (Inch-Foot). Cost estimate is based on a 

using a such a commercial product. The typical scenario is an inline structure with a width of 20', height of six feet, The pipe is 50' of 15' SCH 40 PVC (inlet and outlet 

combined).

Before Situation:

The landowner wishes to provide for a way to control the water surface elevation in a wetland area. The landowner wishes to enhance and enlarge the area to provide 

habitat for fish and wildlife. 

After Situation:

A WCS is installed in a flow line allowing shallow water impoundments. A wetland area is enhanced and water levels can be varied to better accommodate wildlife needs. 

Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Wetland Creation (658), Wetland Enhancement (659) 

Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management (644), Dike (356), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Flashboard Weir Length (in) x Barre

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,395.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 190 $735.30

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 15 $90.45

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 2 $204.28

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1287 $3,050.19

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #347 - Automated DWM Control Structure, 12 to 18 inch diameter pipe

Scenario Description:

A subsurface drainage system on a field with a fairly flat slope (less than 2% and preferably less than 1%) that outlets through a control structure which is operated with an 

automated slide gate and accommodates 12 to 18 inch diameter pipe sizes. This structure configuration facilitates meeting the conservation practice standard 554 - 

Drainage Water Management by managing the subsurface water table year-round. This allows the operator to keep the water in the soil profile when it is not critical to 

dry the soil for crop health or field operations. This retention time reduces the volume of water discharged and thereby the quantity of nutrients lost. A single automated 

structure may have its influence extended by buried float-activated structures to provide a greater area of control. Resource Concerns: Water Quality Degradation 

(Nutrients). Associated Practices: 606 - Subsurface Drain; 554 - Drainage Water Management

Before Situation:

Uncontrolled discharge from a subsurface drainage system enters ditches or streams, often laden with sediment and nutrients.

After Situation:

The water surface profile in the subsurface drainage system is managed in a manner which retains moisture in the soil for plant update and to allow for enhanced nutrient 

utilization. The use of automated control structures allow water levels to be monitored and adjusted remotely to allow for more active management in accordance with 

the drainage systems Drainage Water Management plan. Typical affected area for a single structure is 10 to 20 acres. A single structure with an automated slide gate may 

have its influence extended by use of buried float-activated control structures.

Feature Measure: Number of Structures

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,090.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,090.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 567.6 $1,345.21

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2145

Inline, fixed costs portion

Fixed cost portion of Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog type. 

Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Materials only.

Each $367.01 1 $367.01

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2146

Inline, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog 

type. Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Calculate total 

variable costs by multiplying by the structure height x pipe diameter. 

Materials only.

Height x $18.68 113 $2,110.84

Diameter

Valve, Inline, => 12 inch dia. 2368 Inline valve greater than or equal to 12 inch diameter to control 

direction and volume of flow within a pipeline system. Materials only.

Each $3,616.83 1 $3,616.83

Light Duty Linear Actuator 2724 12VDC aluminum light duty linear actuator with 12??? stroke and 

potentiometer. 110 lb dynamic load rating with 20:1 gear ratio, 500 lb 

static load rating.

Each $152.19 1 $152.19

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.881 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #363 - Automation Retrofit to Manual Drainage Water Management Control Structure

Scenario Description:

A subsurface drainage system on a field with a fairly flat slope (less than 2% and preferably less than 1%) that outlets through a control structure which has been 

retrofitted to operate with an automated slide gate. This structure configuration facilitates meeting the conservation practice standard 554 - Drainage Water Management 

by managing the subsurface water table year-round. This allows the operator to keep the water in the soil profile when it is not critical to dry the soil for crop health or 

field operations. This retention time reduces the volume of water discharged and thereby the quantity of nutrients lost. A single retrofitted automated retrofit structure 

may have its influence extended by buried float-activated structures to provide a greater area of control. Resource Concerns: Field Sediment, Nutrient and Pathogen Loss. 

Associated Practices: 606 - Subsurface Drain; 554 - Drainage Water Management.

Before Situation:

Control structure with manually operated slide gate.

After Situation:

The water surface profile in the subsurface drainage system is managed in a manner which retains moisture in the soil for plant update and to allow for enhanced nutrient 

utilization. The use of retrofitted control structures for automated slide gate operation allow water levels to be monitored and adjusted remotely to allow for more active 

management in accordance with the drainage systems Drainage Water Management plan. Typical affected area for a single structure is 10 to 20 acres. A single structure 

with a retrofitted automated slide gate may have its influence extended by use of buried float-activated control structures.

Feature Measure: Number of Structures

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,251.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,251.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.25 $640.91

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Battery Bank, Hydroelectric 2593 Device used to provide a way to store surplus energy when more is 

being produced than consumed. When demand increases beyond what 

is generated, the batteries can be called on to release energy to keep 

household loads operating. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $672.44 1 $672.44

Light Duty Linear Actuator 2724 12VDC aluminum light duty linear actuator with 12??? stroke and 

potentiometer. 110 lb dynamic load rating with 20:1 gear ratio, 500 lb 

static load rating.

Each $152.19 1 $152.19
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #425 - Automated DWM Control Structure, 6 to 10 inch diameter pipe

Scenario Description:

A subsurface drainage system on a field with a fairly flat slope (less than 2% and preferably less than 1%) that outlets through a control structure which is operated with an 

automated slide gate and accommodates 6 to 10 inch diameter pipe sizes. This structure configuration facilitates meeting the conservation practice standard 554 - 

Drainage Water Management by managing the subsurface water table year-round. This allows the operator to keep the water in the soil profile when it is not critical to 

dry the soil for crop health or field operations. This retention time reduces the volume of water discharged and thereby the quantity of nutrients lost. A single automated 

structure may have its influence extended by buried float-activated structures to provide a greater area of control. Resource Concerns: Water Quality Degradation 

(Nutrients). Associated Practices: 606 - Subsurface Drain; 554 - Drainage Water Management

Before Situation:

Uncontrolled discharge from a subsurface drainage system enters ditches or streams, often laden with sediment and nutrients.

After Situation:

The water surface profile in the subsurface drainage system is managed in a manner which retains moisture in the soil for plant update and to allow for enhanced nutrient 

utilization. The use of automated control structures allow water levels to be monitored and adjusted remotely to allow for more active management in accordance with 

the drainage systems Drainage Water Management plan. Typical affected area for a single structure is 10 to 20 acres. A single structure with an automated slide gate may 

have its influence extended by use of buried float-activated control structures.

Feature Measure: Number of Structures

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,251.11

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,251.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 271.6 $643.69

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2145

Inline, fixed costs portion

Fixed cost portion of Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog type. 

Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Materials only.

Each $367.01 1 $367.01

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2146

Inline, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog 

type. Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Calculate total 

variable costs by multiplying by the structure height x pipe diameter. 

Materials only.

Height x $18.68 60 $1,120.80

Diameter

Valve, Inline, < 12 inch dia. 2367 Inline valve less than 12 inch diameter to control direction and volume 

of flow within a pipeline system. Materials only.

Each $468.77 1 $468.77

Light Duty Linear Actuator 2724 12VDC aluminum light duty linear actuator with 12??? stroke and 

potentiometer. 110 lb dynamic load rating with 20:1 gear ratio, 500 lb 

static load rating.

Each $152.19 1 $152.19

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.881 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #454 - Inlet Flashboard Riser, Metal

Scenario Description:

A Flashboard Riser fabricated of metal and used in a water management system that maintains a desired water surface elevation, controls the direction or rate of flow, or 

conveys water to address the resource concerns: Inadequate Water - Inefficient use of Irrigation Water and Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife. The water surface 

elevation is controlled by addition or removal of slats or 'stoplogs'. This scenario is applicable to variable crest weir structures where the elevation is controlled at the inlet 

(Half-Rounds). They are often fabricated from half pipes (i.e. half-rounds) or sheet steel in a box shape. Payment rate is based upon the Flashboard Weir Length in inches 

multiplied by the outlet length in feet (Inch-Foot). Cost estimate is based on a 'Half-Round' flashboard riser shop fabricated using a longitudinal cut 36' smooth steel pipe, 

a 50' long - 30' outlet pipe passing through an embankment.

Before Situation:

The operator presently flood irrigates his field and has no means to accurately maintain a constant water level at varying elevations resulting in a lack of flexibility, and 

inefficient use of water and energy during pumping. The operator also desires to maintain a permanent pool for water fowl during the winter.

After Situation:

The operator has the capability to more efficiently control and maintain a range of water surface elevations thereby reducing the flow rate needed. Less water is wasted 

and both water and energy is conserved. The operator is now able to maintain adequate water during the winter as a benefit to waterfowl. Any needed re-vegetation of 

disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Irrigation Water Management (449), Irrigation Land Leveling (464), Irrigation Canal or 

Lateral (320), Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery (447), Dike (356), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Flashboard Weir Length (in) x barre

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1,800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,359.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 190 $735.30

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 10 $60.30

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 2 $204.28

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 5 $159.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Steel, Angle, 2 1/2 in. x 2 1/2 in. x 1372

1/4 in.

Materials: Angle, 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch x 1/4 inch. Meets ASTM A36 Feet $4.32 24 $103.68

Steel, Plate, 3/8 in. 1375 Flat steel plate, 3/8 inch thickness. Materials only. Square Feet $23.23 4 $92.92

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 32 $111.04

Pipe, Steel, Std Wt., Used, weight 2870

priced

Schedule 40 steel pipe, used. Materials only. Pound $0.99 6788.6 $6,720.71

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #480 - Culvert <30 inches CMP

Scenario Description:

Install a new Corrugated Metal Pipe (CMP) culvert under 30 inches in diameter to convey water under roads or other barriers. A typical scenario would be an 24 inch 

diameter pipe, 40 feet in length. Work includes site preparation, acquiring and installing culvert pipe with gravel bedding and fill (compacted), and riprap protection of side 

slopes. Use (396) Aquatic Organism Passage when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic. Use (578) Stream Crossing instead for culverts = 30 inches or 

perennial flow.

Before Situation:

Water flow needs to be conveyed under an access road, ditch or other barrier. Water must be conveyed in a controlled fashion.

After Situation:

Water is conveyed in a controlled manner. Associated practices could be Access Road (560), Animal Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342), Drainage Water 

Management (554), Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320), Irrigation Pipeline (430), Irrigation Reservoir (436), Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface (443), Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery (447), Irrigation Water Management (449), Lined Waterway or Outlet (468), Obstruction Removal (500), Pond (378), Stormwater Runoff Control (570), 

Surface Drain, Field Ditch (607), Surface Drain, Main or Lateral (608), and Trails and Walkways (568). 

Feature Measure: Pipe Diameter (In) x Pipe Length (Ft

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,710.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 5 $12.15

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 45 $271.35

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 2 $270.14

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 5 $107.55

Pipe, CMP, 14-12 gauge, weight 1589

priced

14 and 12 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $0.96 1320 $1,267.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #482 - Flow Meter with Mechanical Index

Scenario Description:

Permanently installed water flow meter with mechanical, cumulative volume and rate index. Meters can be any flow measurement device that meets CPS 433, (i.e. 

meters: turbine, propeller, acoustic, magnetic, venturi, orifice, etc.) with or without straightening vanes. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of 

irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities Associated Practices: 

533-Pumping Plant, 449-Irrigation Water Management, 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, 443-Irrigation System Surface and Subsurface, 442-Irrigation System, 

Sprinkler, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, 634-Waste Transfer, and 590-Nutrient Management. 

Before Situation:

Producer estimates seasonal and individual irrigation application flow rate and volumes based on energy costs, system operating pressure, or other means. 

After Situation:

Producer is able to access instantaneous rate and cumulative flow volume data at the meter location. The information gained will enable the irrigator to improve 

irrigation water management, recognize system performance issues before they become critical, and reduce energy use. 

Feature Measure: Nominal Diameter of Meter

Scenario Unit: Inch

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,109.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $210.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Flow Meter, with mechanical 1450

Index

10 inch, Turbine Type Flow Meter with Mechanical Index, permanently 

installed. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1,742.08 1 $1,742.08

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #483 - Flow Meter with Electronic Index

Scenario Description:

Permanently installed water flow meter with an electronic index . Meters can be any flow measurement device that meets CPS 433, (i.e., meters: turbine, propeller, 

acoustic, magnetic, venturi, orifice, etc.) with or without straightening vanes or data logging capability. Meter nominal diameter for insert type turbine meters will be 

installation pipe size. Typical installation would include installation of a 10 inch turbine flow meter, with electronic index output. Resource Concerns: Insufficient 

Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and 

facilities Associated Practices: 533-Pumping Plant, 449-Irrigation Water Management, 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, 443-Irrigation System Surface and 

Subsurface, 442-Irrigation System, Sprinkler, 328-Conservation Crop Rotation, 634-Waster Transfer, and 590-Nutrient Management. 

Before Situation:

Producer estimates seasonal and individual irrigation application flow rate and volumes based on energy costs, system operating pressure, or other means. 

After Situation:

Producer is able to access instantaneous rate and cumulative flow volume data at the meter location. The information gained will enable the irrigator to improve 

irrigation water management, recognize system performance issues before they become critical, and reduce energy use. 

Feature Measure: Nominal Diameter of Meter

Scenario Unit: Inch

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,996.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $399.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Flow Meter, with Electronic Index 1452 10 inch Turbine Irrigation flow meter, with Electronic Index, Rate and 

Volume, permanently installed. Materials only.

Each $3,628.64 1 $3,628.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #484 - Flow Meter with Electronic Index & Telemetry 

Scenario Description:

Permanently installed water flow meter with an electronic flow rate and volume index and data telemetry transmission system. Meters can be any flow measurement 

device that meets CPS 433, (i.e. meters: turbine, propeller, acoustic, magnetic, venturi, orifice, etc.) with or without straightening vanes. Meter nominal diameter for 

insert type turbine meters will be installation pipe size. Typical installation would include installation of a 10 inch magnetic flow meter, with electronic index output and 

telemetry data transfer system for monitoring irrigation system flow rate. Resource Concerns: Insufficient Water - Inefficient use of irrigation water, and Degraded Plant 

Condition - Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Inefficient Energy Use - Equipment and facilities Associated Practices: 533-Pumping Plant, 449-Irrigation 

Water Management, 441-Irrigation System, Microirrigation, 443-Irrigation System Surface and Subsurface, 442-Irrigation System, Sprinkler, 328-Conservation Crop 

Rotation, 634-Waste Transfer, and 590-Nutrient Management. 

Before Situation:

Producer estimates seasonal and individual irrigation application flow rate and volumes based on energy costs, system operating pressure, or other means. 

After Situation:

Producer is able to access instantaneous rate and cumulative flow volume data from a personal computer or cell phone at any time. The information gained will enable 

the irrigator to improve irrigation water management, recognize system performance issues before they become critical, and reduce energy use. 

Feature Measure: Nominal Diameter of Meter

Scenario Unit: Inch

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,575.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $557.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Flow Meter, with electronic Index 1451

and telemetry

10 inch Magnetic Irrigation Flow Meter, with electronic index and 

equipped for telemetry, permanently installed. Includes material and 

shipping only.

Each $5,208.23 1 $5,208.23

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #485 - Rock Checks for Water Surface Profile

Scenario Description:

Typical setting is in a stream that has become incised and is therefore disconnected from the floodplain. Typical installation consists of installing a 'Vee' shaped rock 

structures with points facing upstream for the purpose of raising the water surface profile. Cost estimate is for three check dams with a top width of 3', max height of 6', 

min height of 3', and 28' length; containing an average of 58 cubic yards or 29 tons of rock for a total of 87 tons. The check dams are underlain with geotextile fabric. 

Disturbed areas are protected with permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as water quality degradation and soil erosion-concentrated flow 

erosion.

Before Situation:

The stream presently is incised with near vertical banks caused by bank toe erosion and sloughing. This condition has caused the floodplains to be disconnected from the 

stream, with only floods well above normal high-water escaping the high banks of the stream.

After Situation:

Banks are stabilized, and pools are created raising the Water Surface Profile elevation and effectively reducing the slope. Riffle pool scheme is restored and banks are 

protected. Water quality is protected downstream due to erosion protection, and wetland features are restored in the floodplain. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed 

areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Streambank and Shoreline Protection (580), Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Stream Habitat 

Improvement and Management (395), and Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management (644) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Tons of rock installed

Scenario Unit: Ton

Scenario Typical Size: 87.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,948.81

Scenario Cost/Unit: $102.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, large 1222

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $1.51 84 $126.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 57 $7,698.99

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #486 - Slide Gate

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the installation of a permanent slide gate structure to control the conveyance of water. The typical size is a 4' diameter opening. The slide gate may be 

installed on an open channel or pipeline. The slide gate is made of steel and has a hand operated mechanical lifting system, i.e. screw. This scenario assists in addressing 

the resource concerns: water management. Conservation practices that may be associated are: 533-Pumping Plant.

Before Situation:

A channel or pipeline is in need of a head gate to control the flow of water.

After Situation:

A 4' slide gate is installed and operated by hand is installed.

Feature Measure: diameter

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,660.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,415.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 6 $400.86

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Materials

Screw gate, cast iron, 4 ft. 1746

diameter, 10/0 head

4 ft. diameter cast iron screw (canal) gate rated at 10 seating head 0 

feet unseating head. Includes materials only.

Each $7,598.25 1 $7,598.25

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #487 - Flap Gate

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the installation of a permanent flap (tide) gate structure to control the direction of flow resulting from tides or high water or back-flow from flooding. The 

typical size is a 4' diameter opening. The gate may be installed on an open channel or pipeline. It is made of steel and operates automatically. This scenario assists in 

addressing the resource concerns: water management. Conservation practices that may be associated are: 

Before Situation:

A wetland or other area is in need of a flap gate to control the direction of the water.

After Situation:

A flap gate 4' wide is installed.

Feature Measure: Feet Diameter (of Gate)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,016.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,504.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 6 $400.86

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Materials

Flap Gate, cast iron, 4 ft. diameter 1745 4 ft. diameter cast iron flap gate. Materials only. Each $7,954.67 1 $7,954.67

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #488 - CMP Turnout

Scenario Description:

A corrugated metal pipe (CMP) equipped with a slide gate diverts water from a ditch or canal into a field or field ditch. This scenario is for a 15 inch diameter gate and pipe 

that will transmit approximately 4 cfs of flow.

Before Situation:

A ditch or canal exists, but a means to move water from the ditch into a smaller ditch or field does not exist. A water supply of sufficient quantity and quality is available 

for irrigation. 

After Situation:

Water is diverted from a canal or ditch to meet irrigation requirements. A 15 inch diameter CMP is installed through the canal containment dike,. A 15 inch diameter slide 

gate is attached to the upstream end of the pipe. The top of the pipe inlet is below canal water surface elevation. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,513.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,513.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 94 $194.58

Slide gate, steel, 1 ft. diameter, 1830

low head

1 ft. diameter steel slide gate for low head installations Each $201.00 1 $201.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #489 - Flap Gate w/ Concrete Wall

Scenario Description:

Install a concrete cut off wall with tide gate at the outlet of a channel. A typical scenario would be installed in a 25 foot channel, 6 foot deep, with 2:1 side slopes. A 

concrete wall will extend 10 feet on each side, and include a 4' flap gate structure to control flooding. Work includes site preparation, forming and pouring concrete, 

backfilling and acquiring and installing the tide gate. 

Before Situation:

Tides or flooding inundate and affect water quality of wetlands or other managed systems.

After Situation:

Tide or flood inundation is controlled. Associated practices could be Aquaculture Ponds (397), Aquatic Organism Passage (396), Bivalve Aquaculture Gear and Biofouling 

Control (400), Constructed Wetland (656), Drainage Water Management (554), Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320), Irrigation Field Ditch (388), Irrigation System, Surface and 

Subsurface (443), Irrigation Water Management (449), Salinity and Sodic Soil Management (610), Subsurface Drain (606), Surface Drain, Field Ditch (607), Surface Drain, 

Main or Lateral (608), Wetland Creation (658), Wetland Enhancement (659), Wetland Restoration (657), and Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management (644). 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Concrete

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,311.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,531.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 10 $5,967.10

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 200 $486.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 200 $774.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 4 $81.76

Flap Gate, cast iron, 4 ft. diameter 1745 4 ft. diameter cast iron flap gate. Materials only. Each $7,954.67 1 $7,954.67
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #490 - In-Stream Structure for Water Surface Profile

Scenario Description:

Typical setting is in a stream that has become incised and is therefore disconnected from the floodplain. Typical installation consists of installing a 'Vee' shaped concrete 

structure which points facing upstream for the purpose of raising the water surface profile. Cost estimate is for one cross vane with a effective length (Streambed width) of 

36', and total length of 65', effective height of 3', max height of 6', and a 3' by 1.5' footer; containing 19 cubic yards of Concrete. Disturbed areas are protected with 

permanent vegetative cover. Addresses resource concerns such as water quality degradation and soil erosion-concentrated flow erosion.

Before Situation:

The stream presently is incised with near vertical banks caused by bank toe erosion and sloughing. This condition has caused the floodplains to be disconnected from the 

stream, with only floods well above normal high-water escaping the high banks of the stream.

After Situation:

Banks are stabilized, and pools are created raising the water surface elevation and effectively reducing the slope. Riffle pool scheme is restored and banks are protected. 

Water quality is protected downstream due to erosion protection, and wetland features are restored in the floodplain. Any needed re-vegetation of disturbed areas use 

Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Streambank and Shoreline Protection (580) Channel Bed Stabilization (584), Stream Habitat Improvement 

and Management (395), and Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management (644) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Streambed Width

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 36.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,303.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $369.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 19 $11,337.49

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 18 $43.74

Water management, Flooding & 969

dewatering

Includes equipment and power unit. Labor not included. Acre Feet $214.90 1 $214.90

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 7 $352.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #491 - Concrete Turnout Structure

Scenario Description:

A reinforced concrete turnout structure equipped with a 48 inch screw gate diverts irrigation water from a canal into a field or field ditch. This scenario is for a six ft tall, 

eight foot wide, and ten foot long turnout structure. A sloping trash rack fabricated from rebar is installed on the inlet. If needed fish screens may be installed at the inlet..

Before Situation:

A delivery canal exists, but a means to move water from the canal into a smaller ditch or field does not exist. A water supply of sufficient quantity and quality is available 

for irrigation. 

After Situation:

Water is diverted from a canal to meet irrigation requirements. A eight foot wide and six foot tall turnout structure equipped with a 48 inch slide gate conducts water 

through the canal berm. The concrete structure is ten feet long and has an end sill. All footings, floors. and walls have a minimum thickness of six inches. The structure 

delivers water to field or ditch bottom elevation. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,413.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13,413.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 5 $2,983.55

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Materials

Screw gate, cast iron, 4 ft. 1746

diameter, 10/0 head

4 ft. diameter cast iron screw (canal) gate rated at 10 seating head 0 

feet unseating head. Includes materials only.

Each $7,598.25 1 $7,598.25

Welded Bar Grate, metal 1980 Heavy duty vertical bar welded grating, typically 1-1/4 x 3/16 in. bars on 

1 in. spacing with cross rod on 4 in. spacing. Materials only.

Square Feet $29.13 48 $1,398.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #492 - Concrete Turnout Structure - Small

Scenario Description:

A reinforced concrete turnout structure equipped with slide boards or panels diverts irrigation water from a ditch or canal into a field or field ditch. This scenario is for a 

four ft tall, two foot wide, and five foot long turnout structure. 

Before Situation:

A ditch or canal exists, but a means to move water from the ditch into a smaller ditch or field does not exist. A water supply of sufficient quantity and quality is available 

for irrigation. 

After Situation:

Water is diverted from a canal or ditch to meet irrigation requirements. A two foot wide and four foot tall turnout structure equipped with slots for slide boards and 

panels conducts water through the canal berm into a field. The concrete structure is five feet long and has an end sill. All footings, floors. and walls have a minimum 

thickness of six inches. The structure delivers water to field elevation or ditch bottom elevation. The top of the pipe inlet is below canal water surface elevation. 

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,094.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,094.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 2 $1,193.42

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 1 $66.81

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #515 - Culvert <30 inches HDPE

Scenario Description:

Install a new HDPE culvert under 30 inches in diameter to convey water under roads or other barriers. A typical scenario would be an 24 inch diameter pipe, 40 feet in 

length. Work includes site preparation, acquiring and installing culvert pipe with gravel bedding and fill (compacted), and riprap protection of side slopes. Use (396) 

Aquatic Organism Passage when the primary intent is biological concerns, not hydrologic. Use (578) Stream Crossing for culverts = 30 inches or perennial flow.

Before Situation:

Water flow needs to be conveyed under an access road, ditch or other barrier. Water must be conveyed in a controlled fashion.

After Situation:

Water is conveyed in a controlled manner. Associated practices could be Access Road (560), Animal Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342), Drainage Water 

Management (554), Irrigation Canal or Lateral (320), Irrigation Pipeline (430), Irrigation Reservoir (436), Irrigation System, Surface and Subsurface (443), Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery (447), Irrigation Water Management (449), Lined Waterway or Outlet (468), Obstruction Removal (500), Pond (378), Stormwater Runoff Control (570), 

Surface Drain, Field Ditch (607), Surface Drain, Main or Lateral (608), and Trails and Walkways (568). 

Feature Measure: Pipe Diameter (In) x Pipe Length (Ft

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 960.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,523.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 5 $12.15

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 45 $271.35

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 2 $270.14

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 5 $107.55

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 440.8 $1,079.96

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 587 - Structure for Water Control

Scenario: #516 - Inline Flashboard Riser, Metal

Scenario Description:

A Flashboard Riser fabricated of metal and used in a water management system that maintains a desired water surface elevation, controls the direction or rate of flow, or 

conveys water to address the resource concerns: Inadequate Water - Inefficient use of Irrigation Water and Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife. The water surface 

elevation is controlled by addition or removal of slats or 'stoplogs'. This scenario is applicable to variable crest weir structures where the elevation is controlled at the 

embankment. They are often fabricated from vertical pipes with the stoplogs are located in the middle (i.e. Full-Rounds) or sheet steel in a box shape. Payment rate is 

based upon the Flashboard Weir Length in inches multiplied by the outlet length in feet (Inch-Foot). Cost estimate is based on a 'Half-Round' flashboard riser shop 

fabricated using a longitudinal cut 36' smooth steel pipe, a 50' long - 30' outlet pipe passing through an embankment.

Before Situation:

The operator presently flood irrigates his field and has no means to accurately maintain a constant water level at varying elevations resulting in a lack of flexibility, and 

inefficient use of water and energy during pumping. The operator also desires to maintain a permanent pool for water fowl during the winter.

After Situation:

The operator has the capability to more efficiently control and maintain a range of water surface elevations thereby reducing the flow rate needed. Less water is wasted 

and both water and energy is conserved. The operator is now able to maintain adequate water during the winter as a benefit to waterfowl. Any needed re-vegetation of 

disturbed areas use Critical Area Planting (342). Other associated practices such as; Irrigation Water Management (449), Irrigation Land Leveling (464), Irrigation Canal or 

Lateral (320), Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery (447), Dike (356), and Grade Stabilization Structure (410) will use the corresponding Standard(s) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Flashboard Weir Length (in) x Barre

Scenario Unit: Diameter Inch Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1,800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,601.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 190 $735.30

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 15 $90.45

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 4 $408.56

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 7 $223.44

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Steel, Angle, 2 1/2 in. x 2 1/2 in. x 1372

1/4 in.

Materials: Angle, 2 1/2 inch x 2 1/2 inch x 1/4 inch. Meets ASTM A36 Feet $4.32 24 $103.68

Steel, Plate, 3/8 in. 1375 Flat steel plate, 3/8 inch thickness. Materials only. Square Feet $23.23 10 $232.30

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 4 $13.88

Pipe, Steel, Std Wt., Used, weight 2870

priced

Schedule 40 steel pipe, used. Materials only. Pound $0.99 6518.6 $6,453.41

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #274 - Adaptive NM

Scenario Description:

The practice scenario is for the implementation of nutrient management on a small plot, as detailed in outlined in Agronomy Technical Note 7 - Adaptive Nutrient 

Management. Scenario includes implementing replicated strip trials on a field plot to evaluate, identify and implement various nutrient use efficiency improvement 

methods for timing, rate, method of application, or source of nutrients.

Before Situation:

The practice will be installed on cropland (small grain rotation or typical corn-soybean rotation) to address water quality degradation, air quality degradation and energy 

concerns. The scenario applies to non-organic and organic operations.

After Situation:

Installation of this scenario will result in adopting the four R's of nutrient management following the procedures outlined in Agronomy Technical Note 7 - Adaptive 

Nutrient Management. Implementation involves establishing the replicated plots to evaluate one or more of the 4 R's. The plot will consist of at least 4 replicated plots 

designed, laid out, managed and evaluated with the assistance of a consultant or extension professional knowledgeable in nutrient management and experimental design 

and data collection. Results are used to make nutrient application decisions to address water quality degradation issues and nutrient use efficiencies. Yields will be 

measured and statistically analyzed and summarized following the procedures in Agronomy Technical Note 7. The yields for each plot will be adjusted to the appropriate 

moisture content.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,767.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,767.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Aerial Imagery 966 Aerial imagery. RBG (color), infrared or NDVI single image. Acres $1.77 1 $1.77

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 25 $597.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 15 $1,617.60

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 2 $29.08

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 14 $353.78

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 14 $168.42
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #297 - Small Scale Basic Nutrient Management

Scenario Description:

This scenario applies to small farms with diversified cropping systems which will improve the current level of management in applying nutrients. Improved level of 

management will be such to prevent nonpoint source pollution of surface and ground waters. Typical size is less than 1.0 acre. This scenario includes hand-labor as well 

as equipment.

Before Situation:

Little to no soil or manure testing is being conducted and typically lacks a nutrient budget. Application of fertilizers, including manures and amendments, are conducted 

based upon traditional fertilizer recommendations from LGU or based on historic use rates. Fields are overwintered with little or no erosion protection often times 

resulting in sheet, rill, and ephemeral erosion. Nutrients runoff into adjacent streams, tile drains, field surface drains, or other water courses is causing degradation to 

surface waters or leaching to shallow ground water sources.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements have been developed to manage nutrients according to the criteria found in Nutrient Management (590) Conservation Practice Standard 

for either organic or non-organic operations as appropriate. A nutrient budget has been developed for each field or management zone. Nutrients are applied according to 

the 4 R???s. (Right rate, Right time, Right place and Right source). Records needed to complete the nutrient budget are provided which may include variety of pre-season, 

in-season, and post-season soil nutrient and plant tissue tests and analysis; compost or manure tests; application timing, method and rate; nutrient sources; and yield data 

for each field or management zone. Nutrient runoff into adjacent streams is minimized improving water quality and preventing leaching into shallow ground water sources.

Feature Measure: planted area

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 43.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,371.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $31.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #304 - Precision Nutrient Application

Scenario Description:

The planned Precision Nutrient Application system will meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS General and Additional Criteria. The Application system will 

include soil sampling methodology for variable rate application and systems. Use of additional nutrient/soil tests including chlorophyll meters, and/or spectral analysis 

may be used to further refine nutrient applications. Management of nutrients is based on the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient Management (apply the 

right nutrient source at the right rate, time and place) including activities to reduce nutrient loss by Assessment of comprehensive, site-specific conditions within the field. 

Nutrient management intensity must be sufficient to address site-specific risk for nutrient loss. Payment for implementation is to defray the costs of Precision Nutrient 

Application system, equipment to implement the practice, implementation of the NMP and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Currently, a nutrient management system for the farm operation accounting for all know measurable nutrient sources does not exist or does not meet the Nutrient 

Management (590) CPS requirements for General and Additional Criteria. Management of nutrients is not based on the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient 

Management. An environmental evaluation or risk assessment for the nutrient application area has not completed. Nutrients are subject to loss through surface water 

runoff, green-house gas emissions, drainage tile, soil erosion, or to ground water from leaching in quantities that degrade soil/water quality and limit use of the intended 

purpose.

After Situation:

A Precision Nutrient Application system will be developed to meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS General and Additional Criteria with nutrient management 

intensity sufficient to address site-specific risks for nutrient loss. Development and implementation of the NM system is based on site-specific risk assessment of 

comprehensive, site-specific conditions for the application of nutrients for each nutrient loss pathway that can negatively impact soil, water and air quality with excess 

nutrient loss. The NM system utilizes the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship and SMART Nutrient Management ??? the right Source, right Method, right Rate, and right Timing to 

meet both plant productivity and natural resource conservation goals. Utilizing GIS and GPS technologies, nutrients are applied based on soil test results for each grid or 

management zone using automated variable rate application equipment. Records provided annually include, the current soil test reports, planned nutrient application 

rates for each grid or management zone (prescription maps) and/or as applied maps, source, timing, and placement of all nutrients applied, actual crop yields and/or 

generated yield maps.

Feature Measure: acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,114.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $77.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 2 $232.78

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 40 $370.00

Aerial Imagery 966 Aerial imagery. RBG (color), infrared or NDVI single image. Acres $1.77 40 $70.80

Chlorophyll Reader 1125 Applicator and chlorophyll sensor includes labor. No materials Acres $12.61 40 $504.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 15 $1,617.60
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #305 - Prescription Nutrient Efficiency

Scenario Description:

The planned Precision Nutrient Efficiency system will meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS general and additional criteria. Precision nutrient efficiency 

system involves the testing or evaluation of crop and/or soil during the growing season to more accurately determine if additional nutrient application(s) are needed. This 

includes methods or technologies such as PPSN (pre-plant soil nitrate test), PSNT (pre-side dress nitrogen test), LSNT (late spring soil nitrate test), CSNT (corn stalk nitrate 

test) and chlorophyll meters, and/or spectral analysis may be used to determine if additional nutrients are needed. Nitrification or urease inhibitors (as well as other 

Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizer technologies recognized by Land Grant Universities) may also be used. Payment for implementation is to defray the costs of additional soil 

and plant nutrient testing and analysis, in-season crop nutrient testing, equipment, labor, implementation of the NMP and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 

acres.

Before Situation:

This scenario takes a conventional cropping system where either no nutrient management or only a basic level of nutrient management is being practiced and improves it 

to address air quality (reduce emissions for N fertilizer) and/or minimize agricultural nonpoint source pollution of surface and groundwater. Application(s) of fertilizers, 

including manures and amendments, are based upon tradition and does not specifically consider the detrimental affects of improper timing or rates of nutrients, nitrous 

oxide emissions or excess nutrient build-up in the soil. Runoff transports nutrients and sediment to adjacent streams, water courses, tile drains, field surface drains, or 

other water courses causing degradation to receiving waters. Leaching transports soluble nutrients to shallow ground water sources. There is typically no environmental 

evaluation of the potential for off-site nutrient movement.

After Situation:

A Precision Nutrient Management Efficiency system will be developed to meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS general and additional criteria. When 

applicable the system will also meet NOP (National Organic Program) regulations, including reducing nitrogen emissions. Implementation of the adopted efficiency 

system improves the 4R Stewardship installation which will reduce nutrient loss reducing the potential of off-site movement of nutrients. A nutrient budget is developed 

for each field or management zone annually for the crop rotation or sequence. The Nutrient Management Plan will include current soil test results, nutrient application 

rates, source, timing, and placement of all nutrients applied, risk assessments and actual crop yields. Record keeping includes documentation of as applied nutrients by 

field annually plus and State record keeping requirements.

Feature Measure: acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,327.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $58.19

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 40 $307.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 40 $445.20

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 4 $101.08
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #331 - Nutrient Management - Manure Injection

Scenario Description:

The scenario describes the development and implementation of a Nutrient Management (NM) system which will meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS 

General as well as Additional Criteria and utilizes liquid manure as a nutrient source. Manure nutrients will be injected or placed subsurface. The system provides crop 

nutrient recommendations which accounts for the removal of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Management of nutrients is based on the 4Rs of Nutrient 

Stewardship & SMART Nutrient Management (apply the right nutrient source at the right rate, time and place) including activities to reduce nutrient loss by Assessment of 

comprehensive, site-specific conditions within the field. Nutrient management intensity must be sufficient to address site-specific risk for nutrient loss. Payment is to 

defray the costs of implementation of the NM system, injection of manure nutrients and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Currently, a nutrient management system for the farm operation accounting for all know measurable nutrient sources does not exist or does not meet the Nutrient 

Management (590) CPS requirements for General and Additional Criteria. Liquid manure is currently surface applied. Management of nutrients is not based on the 4Rs of 

Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient Management. An environmental evaluation or risk assessment for the nutrient application area has not completed. Nutrients are 

subject to loss through surface water runoff, green-house gas emissions, drainage tile, soil erosion, or to ground water from leaching in quantities that degrade soil/water 

quality and limit use of the intended purpose.

After Situation:

A Nutrient Management (NM) system is developed and implemented to meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS for General and Additional Criteria, with 

nutrient management intensity sufficient to address site-specific risks for nutrient loss. Liquid manure applications are injected below the soil surface at appropriate depth 

according to the nutrient management system using manure injection equipment to reduce nitrogen loss through surface runoff, leaching and ammonia volatilization. 

Development and implementation of the NM system is based on site-specific risk assessment of comprehensive, site-specific conditions for the application of nutrients for 

each nutrient loss pathway that can negatively impact soil, water and air quality with excess nutrient loss. The NM system utilizes the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship and 

SMART Nutrient Management ??? the right Source, right Method, right Rate, and right Timing to meet both plant productivity and natural resource conservation goals.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,790.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $219.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Manure, compost, injection 956 Loading, hauling and injecting manure/compost by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Gallons $0.02 400000 $8,000.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #332 - Nutrient Management - Manure Incorporation

Scenario Description:

The scenario describes the development and implementation of a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) which will meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS General 

as well Additional Criteria and utilizes manure as a nutrient source for crop production. Manure nutrient sources will be incorporated into the soil after application. This 

scenario is applicable for all manure nutrient sources (manure, compost and other organic sources of nutrients). Management of nutrients is based on the 4Rs of Nutrient 

Stewardship & SMART Nutrient Management (apply the right nutrient source at the right rate, time and place) including activities to reduce nutrient loss by Assessment of 

comprehensive, site-specific conditions within the field. Nutrient management intensity must be sufficient to address site-specific risk for nutrient loss. Payment is to 

defray the costs of implementation of the NMP and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Currently, a nutrient management plan for the farm operation accounting for all know measurable nutrient sources does not exist or does not meet the Nutrient 

Management (590) CPS requirements for General and Additional Criteria. Management of nutrients is not based on the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient 

Management. An environmental evaluation or risk assessment for the nutrient application area has not completed. Currently, manure applications are not incorporated 

into the soil. Nutrients are subject to loss through surface water runoff, green-house gas emissions, drainage tile, soil erosion, or to ground water from leaching in 

quantities that degrade water quality and limit use of the intended purpose. Soil quality may be degraded by excess or inadequate nutrients.

After Situation:

A Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) is developed to meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS for General and Additional Criteria with nutrient management 

intensity sufficient to address site-specific risks for nutrient loss. Development and implementation of the NMP is based on site-specific risk assessment of comprehensive, 

site-specific conditions for the application of nutrients for each nutrient loss pathway that can negatively impact soil, water and air quality with excess nutrient loss. 

Manure applications are incorporated into the soil. The NMP utilizes the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship and SMART Nutrient Management ??? the right Source, right 

Method, right Rate, and right Timing to meet both plant productivity and natural resource conservation goals.

Feature Measure: Ac.

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,228.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $55.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 40 $883.60

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 4 $554.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #350 - Nutrient Management

Scenario Description:

The scenario describes the development and implementation of a Nutrient Management (NM) system which will meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS 

General as well as Additional Criteria and utilizes synthetic fertilizer as well as animal manure as nutrient sources for crop production. The system provides crop nutrient 

recommendations which accounts for the removal of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Management of nutrients is based on the 4Rs of Nutrient 

Stewardship & SMART Nutrient Management (apply the right nutrient source at the right rate, time and place) including activities to reduce nutrient loss by Assessment of 

comprehensive, site-specific conditions within the field. Nutrient management intensity must be sufficient to address site-specific risk for nutrient loss. Payment is to 

defray the costs of implementation of the NM system and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Currently, a nutrient management system for the farm operation accounting for all know measurable nutrient sources does not exist or does not meet the Nutrient 

Management (590) CPS requirements for General and Additional Criteria. Management of nutrients is not based on the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient 

Management. An environmental evaluation or risk assessment for the nutrient application area has not completed. Nutrients are subject to loss through surface water 

runoff, green-house gas emissions, drainage tile, soil erosion, or to ground water from leaching in quantities that degrade soil/water quality and limit use of the intended 

purpose.

After Situation:

A Nutrient Management (NM) system is developed and implemented to meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS for General and Additional Criteria, with 

nutrient management intensity sufficient to address site-specific risks for nutrient loss. Development and implementation of the NM system is based on site-specific risk 

assessment of comprehensive, site-specific conditions for the application of nutrients for each nutrient loss pathway that can negatively impact soil, water and air quality 

with excess nutrient loss. The NM system utilizes the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship and SMART Nutrient Management ??? the right Source, right Method, right Rate, and 

right Timing to meet both plant productivity and natural resource conservation goals.

Feature Measure: Ac.

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,498.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 20 $153.60

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 4 $554.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: 590 - Nutrient Management

Scenario: #351 - Nutrient Management - Non-Organic

Scenario Description:

The scenario describes the development and implementation of a Nutrient Management (NM) system which will meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS 

General as well as Specific Criteria and utilizes synthetic fertilizers as sole nutrient source for crop production. The system provides crop nutrient recommendations which 

accounts for the removal of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Management of nutrients is based on the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient 

Management (apply the right nutrient source at the right rate, time and place) including activities to reduce nutrient loss by Assessment of comprehensive, site-specific 

conditions within the field. Nutrient management intensity must be sufficient to address site-specific risk for nutrient loss. Payment is to defray the costs of 

implementation of the NM system and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Currently, a nutrient management system for the farm operation accounting for all know measurable nutrient sources does not exist or does not meet the Nutrient 

Management (590) CPS requirements for General and Additional Criteria. Management of nutrients is not based on the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship & SMART Nutrient 

Management. An environmental evaluation or risk assessment for the nutrient application area has not completed. Nutrients are subject to loss through surface water 

runoff, green-house gas emissions, drainage tile, soil erosion, or to ground water from leaching in quantities that degrade soil/water quality and limit use of the intended 

purpose.

After Situation:

A Nutrient Management (NM) system is developed and implemented to meet the current Nutrient Management (590) CPS for General and Additional Criteria, with 

nutrient management intensity sufficient to address site-specific risks for nutrient loss. Development and implementation of the NM system is based on site-specific risk 

assessment of comprehensive, site-specific conditions for the application of nutrients for each nutrient loss pathway that can negatively impact soil, water and air quality 

with excess nutrient loss. The NM system utilizes the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship and SMART Nutrient Management ??? the right Source, right Method, right Rate, and 

right Timing to meet both plant productivity and natural resource conservation goals.

Feature Measure: Ac.

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,097.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 40 $307.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: 592 - Feed Management

Scenario: #25 - Animal Group

Scenario Description:

Feed ration management on an animal operation that does not have access to enough acres to spread all of its manure nutrients at an agronomic rate. The resource 

concerns are water quality degradation, excessive manure nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. The goal of the practice is to reduce the amount of nutrients in 

the raw manure so that it is easier for ???landlocked??? farmers to apply the manure at agronomic rates, thereby reducing or eliminating water quality degradation 

concerns. Associated practices: Nutrient Management (590), Prescribed Grazing (528), Forage Harvest Management (511).

Before Situation:

Producer is feeding a higher level of protein and/or phosphorus than is needed to meet National Research Council (NRC) recommendations for a group of animals of this 

type and at this stage of production. The operation does not have all of the available acres that it needs to use the nutrients in the manure when spread at agronomic 

rates causing over application of nutrients on land affecting soil quality, which may lead to water quality degradation.

After Situation:

The scenario assumes that a specific group of animals is being evaluated. A baseline analysis of 4 samples each with 4 quarterly reports of manure, and feed will be 

completed to determine the current inputs and outputs. The producer will reduce feed protein and phosphorus levels to that of NRC recommendations for a group of 

animals of this type and at this stage of production. The producer will explore alternative feedstuffs and alternative feeding strategies to bring manure nitrogen and/or 

phosphorus levels down without hurting production of the animals or profitability of the operation. Alternative feeding strategies can include such things as grouping 

animals by similar age, sex, or stage of production, feeding based on individual rolling average production, or feeding ???homegrown??? or local feedstuffs.

Feature Measure: Group

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,999.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,999.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 20 $2,156.80

Materials

Test, Manure Analysis 306 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $48.54 16 $776.64

Test, Feed Analysis 1989 Representative sample of feed. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $30.81 16 $492.96
Practice: 592 - Feed Management

Scenario: #41 - Feed Additive

Scenario Description:

Feed ration management on an animal operation by inclusion of a feed additive. The resource concerns may be water quality degradation (pathogens, soluble nutrients), 

air quality (odors, green house gas). The goal of the practice is to add an approved feed additive that has been proven to reduce pathogens, or tie up soluble nutrients, or 

improve air quality by reducing odors, ammonia, or green house gases to the animal diet. For this scenario, zeolite will be added to beef and dairy rations to reduce 

ammonia emissions. Associated practices: Nutrient Management (590).

Before Situation:

Producer is feeding a balanced diet to his animals. He knows that the diet, however is leading to resource concerns by soluble nutrients or pathogens entering the surface 

water from his operation, or that odors, NOx, or Methane are affecting air quality. For this scenario, the producer knows that nitrogen loss via ammonia volatilization 

from manure is affecting air quality and that adding zeolite to the ration will decrease this effect and improve air quality for his animals.

After Situation:

The scenario assumes that a specific group of animals is being evaluated for a resource concern, and that a proven feed additive can have an effect on that concern. For 

this particular scenario, a zeolite is added to a beef or dairy ration at a rate of 2% of the daily ration. The zeolite will absorb ammonia and other compounds, resulting in 

lower nitrogen excretion and thus lower ammonia emissions from the manure and result in improved air quality. Assume that one hour of general labor will be needed 

per year per animal unit to load/unload zeolite into feed mixing equipment. Assume that the zeolite is added based on a 2% inclusion rate of the dry matter ration of 25 

pounds/day/animal unit or the amount of zeolite needed is 0.5 pounds/day/animal unit or about 0.1 tons/year/animal unit.

Feature Measure: Per Animal unit, per year

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $62.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $62.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Materials

Zeolite, Bulk 2683 Zeolite applied as a pen surface amendment or used as a feed 

ingredient. Zeolite is added to feed as a nutrition-based strategies or 

applied to pen surface as an ammonia abatement measures in livestock 

production, means of reducing ammonia emissions from concentrated 

animal feeding operations.

Ton $387.00 0.1 $38.70
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #22 - Basic IPM Field Crops ??? Herbicide Substitution

Scenario Description:

A basic IPM plan with LGU-approved pest monitoring techniques and pest thresholds (where available) is applied in Large Scale Field/Forage Crops to address the 

surface/subsurface water quality resource concern (e.g. Win-PST Water Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water) by substituting a lower risk pesticide based on WINPST Final Hazard Ratings. Selecting a lower risk herbicide with an alternate mode of action could also address potential herbicide resistance issues.

Before Situation:

The planned pest suppression technique utilizes a pesticide with a High or Extra High Final Hazard Rating in WIN-PST for humans and/or fish due to leaching and/or 

solution runoff.

After Situation:

After implementing the 595 practice, a basic IPM system has been implemented with Land Grant University approved pest monitoring techniques and pest thresholds 

(where available) where alternative pesticides are used to reduce the risk to humans and/or fish from leaching and/or solution runoff to Intermediate or lower based on 

WIN-PST Final Hazard Ratings.

Feature Measure: <Unknown>

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,389.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $34.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #193 - Plant Health PAMS (acs) Low Labor and Materials

Scenario Description:

PAMS activities with low labor and material costs will be implemented on a large scale crop production area.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using any PAMS techniques to the client is using many different PAMS techniques for many 

different pests. In all cases at least one planned PAMS technique has risk to an identified resource concern (Plant Pest Pressure).

After Situation:

Planned Prevention (resistant cultivar selection, etc. ), Avoidance (IWM for disease avoidance, change in rotation to avoid problem spots, etc. ), and Monitoring (Degree 

day monitoring, field scouting, etc.) activities have been implemented to help meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Plant Pest Pressure).

Feature Measure: Acres of Management Applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $923.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Miscellaneous, containers, traps, 298

etc.

Pheromone Traps, Culture container with lid. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $4.90 10 $49.00

Weather Station, Basic 314 Basic Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, and temperature to a home 

weather console. Includes materials only.

Each $287.20 1 $287.20
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #194 - Plant Health PAMS (acs) Low labor only

Scenario Description:

PAMS activities with low labor costs will be implemented on a large scale crop production area.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using any PAMS techniques to the client is using many different PAMS techniques for many 

different pests. In all cases at least one planned PAMS technique has risk to an identified resource concern (Plant Pest Pressure).

After Situation:

Planned Prevention (resistant cultivar selection, pest habitat removal, etc. ), Avoidance (IWM for disease avoidance, change in rotation to avoid problem spots, etc. ), and 

Monitoring (field scouting, etc.) activities have been implemented to help meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Plant Pest Pressure).

Feature Measure: Acres of management applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $586.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #195 - Pest Management Precision Ag

Scenario Description:

This scenario takes a conventional cropping system where either no pest management or only a basic level of pest management is being practiced and improves it to 

address air quality and/or minimize agricultural nonpoint sources pollution of surface and groundwater. The planned Pest Management system will meet the current Pest 

Management Conservation System (595) CPS general and additional criteria. Precision pest management system includes such items as pest monitoring, targeted 

applications, eliminates overlap, tissue testing, specialized nozzles etc. to further refine pesticide applications. Payment for implementation is to defray the costs of tissue 

testing, additional testing and analysis, equipment implementation of the PMCS and recordkeeping. Typical treatment area is 40 acres.

Before Situation:

Conventional pest management programs involve little or no monitoring and testing. Application of pesticides are completed annually based upon product salesmen 

recommendations that do not specifically consider the detrimental affects of inexact application methods. Fields are overwintered with little or no erosion protection 

often resulting in sheet, rill and ephemeral erosion. Runoff flows into adjacent streams, water courses, tile drains, field surface drains or other water courses causing 

degradation to receiving waters or leaching of pesticides to shallow ground water sources. There is typically no environmental evaluation of the potential for off-site 

movement. Soil health may also be detrimentally affected.

After Situation:

A precision pest management system will be developed to meet the current Pest Management Conservation System (595) CPS general and additional criteria, when 

applicable the system will also meet NOP regulations. Development and implementation of a PMCS will benefit plant productivity while reducing potential of off-site 

movement of pesticides. PMCS may include practices such as use of spot applications, proper timing of applications, more appropriate formulations etc. Additional 

monitoring and tissue testing may also be used to further refine pesticide applications. Smart sprayer and advanced nozzle technology may also be employed. Records 

will be provided annually of the current monitoring, test analysis, application rates, formulations for each field including crop yields.

Feature Measure: Acres of management applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,416.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $60.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Aerial Imagery 966 Aerial imagery. RBG (color), infrared or NDVI single image. Acres $1.77 40 $70.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Materials

Miscellaneous, containers, traps, 298

etc.

Pheromone Traps, Culture container with lid. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $4.90 4 $19.60

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 1 $25.27
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #196 - Plant health PAMS (Small Farm - each) labor and mitigation.

Scenario Description:

PAMS activities with labor costs will be implemented plus mitigation on a small scale crop production area.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using any PAMS techniques to the client is using many different PAMS techniques for many 

different pests. In all cases at least one planned PAMS technique has risk to an identified resource concern (Plant Pest Pressure). Mitigation up to 30 points.

After Situation:

Planned Prevention (resistant cultivar selection, pest habitat removal, etc. ), Avoidance (IWM for disease avoidance, change in rotation to avoid problem spots, etc. ), and 

Monitoring (field scouting, etc.) activities have been implemented to help meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Plant Pest Pressure). 

Mitigation up to 30 points.

Feature Measure: Small farm, typically = 5Ac

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,724.87

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,724.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 14 $446.88

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 9 $970.56
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #197 - Plant Health PAMS (acs) Low Labor, materials and mitigation.

Scenario Description:

PAMS activities with low labor and material costs will be implemented plus mitigation on a large scale crop production area.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using any PAMS techniques to the client is using many different PAMS techniques for many 

different pests. In all cases at least one planned PAMS technique has risk to an identified resource concern (Plant Pest Pressure). Mitigation up to 30 points.

After Situation:

Planned Prevention (Netting to exclude insect or birds, resistant cultivar selection, etc. ), Avoidance (IWM for disease avoidance, change in rotation to avoid problem 

spots, etc. ), and Monitoring (Degree day monitoring, field scouting, etc.) activities have been implemented to help meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource 

concerns (i.e. Plant Pest Pressure). Mitigation up to 30 points.

Feature Measure: Acres of Management Applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,408.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $60.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Materials

Miscellaneous, containers, traps, 298

etc.

Pheromone Traps, Culture container with lid. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $4.90 10 $49.00

Weather Station, Basic 314 Basic Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, and temperature to a home 

weather console. Includes materials only.

Each $287.20 1 $287.20
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #198 - Water Quality Pesticide Mitigation > 30 Point AND/OR Beneficial Insect Pesticide Mitigation - Small Farm

Scenario Description:

The minimum amount of planned IPM mitigation techniques needed to reduce water quality pesticide-related resource concerns is > 30 mitigation index score. An IPM 

plan will be developed in accordance with this standard and the CPS 595 Implementation Requirement will document how specific pesticide hazards will be prevented or 

mitigated AND/OR impacts to wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using many pest suppression techniques (pesticides, tillage for weed control, burning, etc.) 

to the client is using many different pest suppression techniques for many different pests, but in all cases at least one planned pest suppression technique has risk to an 

identified resource concern (e.g. Water Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water AND/OR Wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators).

After Situation:

An IPM system with planned. Mitigation techniques (>30 points) have been implemented to meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Water 

Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water or Fish) AND 10 points of mitigation for Wildlife (beneficial insects including pollinators) with either risk prevention (i.e. 

planned pesticides have no risk to the identified resource concern) or risk mitigation (i.e. planned pesticides have appropriate mitigation planned from Agronomy 

Technical Note 5 AND Agronomy Technical Note 9).

Feature Measure: Small Farm, typically <= 5 acs

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,824.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,824.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 20 $638.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 11 $1,186.24
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #199 - Water Quality Pesticide Mitigation = 30 Point AND/OR Beneficial Insect Pesticide Mitigation - Small Farm

Scenario Description:

The minimum amount of planned IPM mitigation techniques needed to reduce water quality pesticide-related resource concerns is = 30 mitigation index score. An IPM 

plan will be developed in accordance with this standard and the CPS 595 Implementation Requirement will document how specific pesticide hazards will be prevented or 

mitigated AND/OR impacts to wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using many pest suppression techniques (pesticides, tillage for weed control, burning, etc.) 

to the client is using many different pest suppression techniques for many different pests, but in all cases at least one planned pest suppression technique has risk to an 

identified resource concern (e.g. Water Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water AND/OR Wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators).

After Situation:

An IPM system with planned. Mitigation techniques (=30 points) have been implemented to meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Water 

Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water or Fish) AND/OR 10 points of mitigation for Wildlife (beneficial insects including pollinators) with either risk prevention (i.e. 

planned pesticides have no risk to the identified resource concern) or risk mitigation (i.e. planned pesticides have appropriate mitigation planned from Agronomy 

Technical Note 5 AND/OR Agronomy Technical Note 9).

Feature Measure: Small Farm, typically <= 5 acres

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,093.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,093.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 14 $446.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #200 - Water Quality Pesticide Mitigation > 30 Point AND/OR Beneficial Insect Pesticide Mitigation

Scenario Description:

The minimum amount of planned IPM mitigation techniques needed to reduce water quality pesticide-related resource concerns is > 30 mitigation index score. An IPM 

plan will be developed in accordance with this standard and the CPS 595 Implementation Requirement will document how specific pesticide hazards will be prevented or 

mitigated AND/OR impacts to wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using many pest suppression techniques (pesticides, tillage for weed control, burning, etc.) 

to the client is using many different pest suppression techniques for many different pests, but in all cases at least one planned pest suppression technique has risk to an 

identified resource concern (e.g. Water Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water AND/OR Wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators).

After Situation:

An IPM system with planned. Mitigation techniques (>30 points) have been implemented to meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Water 

Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water or Fish) AND/OR 10 points of mitigation for Wildlife (beneficial insects including pollinators) with either risk prevention (i.e. 

planned pesticides have no risk to the identified resource concern) or risk mitigation (i.e. planned pesticides have appropriate mitigation planned from Agronomy 

Technical Note 5 AND/OR Agronomy Technical Note 9).

Feature Measure: Acres of Management Applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,635.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $65.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 15 $478.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 20 $2,156.80
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #201 - Water Quality Pesticide Mitigation = 30 Point AND/OR Beneficial Insect Pesticide Mitigation

Scenario Description:

The minimum amount of planned IPM mitigation techniques needed to reduce water quality pesticide-related resource concerns is = 30 mitigation index score. An IPM 

plan will be developed in accordance with this standard and the CPS 595 Implementation Requirement will document how specific pesticide hazards will be prevented or 

mitigated AND/OR impacts to wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using many pest suppression techniques (pesticides, tillage for weed control, burning, etc.) 

to the client is using many different pest suppression techniques for many different pests, but in all cases at least one planned pest suppression technique has risk to an 

identified resource concern (e.g. Water Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water AND/OR Wildlife-beneficial insects including pollinators).

After Situation:

An IPM system with planned. Mitigation techniques (=30 points) have been implemented to meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Water 

Quality - Impacts to Human Drinking Water or Fish) AND/OR 10 points of mitigation for Wildlife (beneficial insects including pollinators) with either risk prevention (i.e. 

planned pesticides have no risk to the identified resource concern) or risk mitigation (i.e. planned pesticides have appropriate mitigation planned from Agronomy 

Technical Note 5 AND Agronomy Technical Note 9).

Feature Measure: Acres of Management Applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,517.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 7 $223.44

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08
Practice: 595 - Pest Management Conservation System

Scenario: #202 - Plant health PAMS (Small Farm - each) labor only

Scenario Description:

PAMS activities with labor costs will be implemented on a small scale crop production area.

Before Situation:

Before practice conditions vary widely. Conditions range from the client is not using any PAMS techniques to the client is using many different PAMS techniques for many 

different pests. In all cases at least one planned PAMS technique has risk to an identified resource concern (Plant Pest Pressure).

After Situation:

Planned Prevention (resistant cultivar selection, pest habitat removal, etc. ), Avoidance (IWM for disease avoidance, change in rotation to avoid problem spots, etc. ), and 

Monitoring (field scouting, etc.) activities have been implemented to help meet the minimum criteria for the identified resource concerns (i.e. Plant Pest Pressure).

Feature Measure: Small farm, typically <= 5 ac

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $555.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $555.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #1 - Storage - Level or Flat Channel

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths, and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a flat channel (level) terrace storing runoff with a length of 6,000 feet and side slopes of 8:1 or greater in a field with slopes from 2% to 8% 

constructed in loam soils or similar with regard to workability. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed Waterway, Underground Outlet or through soil 

infiltration. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of flat channel (level) terraces with approximately 8:1 front and back slopes, 2.5 feet height, and 6,000 feet in length is installed with spacing designed to 

intercept flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. The installed terrace is typically 

farmed. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 6,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,387.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 70 $7,084.70

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 8 $1,340.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 78 $2,854.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #2 - Non-Storage - Broadbase

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a broadbased terrace having 6:1 upstream and 6:1 downstream slopes measuring 2,600 feet in a field with slopes from 2% to 4% 

constructed in loam soils or similar with regard to workability. Channel and embankment slopes are farmed. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed 

Waterway, Underground Outlet or through soil infiltration. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. This practice 

addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of level or gradient, broadbased terraces measuring 2,600 feet in length, 1.4 height, and 6:1 front and back slopes is installed with spacing designed to intercept 

flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. The slopes of the installed terrace are 

typically farmed. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,268.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 7 $708.47

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 2 $335.18

Scraper, Self Propelled, 14 CY 2306 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 14 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $289.62 6 $1,737.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 15 $549.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #3 - Storage - Broadbase

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a broadbased terrace having 5:1 upstream and 5:1 downstream slopes measuring 4,700 feet in a field with slopes from 2% to 8% 

constructed in loam soils or similar with regard to workability. Channel and embankment slopes are farmed. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed 

Waterway, Underground Outlet or through soil infiltration. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. This practice 

addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of level or gradient, broadbased terraces measuring 4,700 feet in length, 2.5 height, and 5:1 front and back slopes is installed with spacing designed to intercept 

flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. The slopes of the installed terrace are 

typically farmed. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,153.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 24 $2,429.04

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 4 $670.36

Scraper, Self Propelled, 14 CY 2306 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 14 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $289.62 34 $9,847.08

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 62 $2,269.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #4 - Broad Base, Rebuild

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a broadbased terrace having 5:1 upstream and 5:1 downstream slopes measuring 4,700 feet in a field with slopes from 2% to 8% 

constructed in loam soils or similar with regard to workability. This scenario pertains to the rebuilding of Broad Base Terraces in a field that has previously been terraced 

and the terrace system has exceeded the design life and requires restoration. Channel and embankment slopes are farmed. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a 

Grassed Waterway, Underground Outlet or through soil infiltration. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. This 

practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of level or gradient, broadbased terraces measuring 4,700 feet in length, 2.5 height, and 5:1 front and back slopes is installed with spacing designed to intercept 

flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. The slopes of the installed terrace are 

typically farmed. This scenario restores the terrace system in a field that was previously terraced. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway 

(412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,824.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 10 $1,012.10

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 4 $670.36

Scraper, Self Propelled, 14 CY 2306 Self propelled earthmoving scraper with 14 CY capacity. Does not 

include labor.

Hours $289.62 15 $4,344.30

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 29 $1,061.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #5 - Non-Storage - Grass Back

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of terraces (2,500 feet in length) that have one relatively flat (6:1) front slope and one steep (2:1) back slope constructed in a field 

with slopes steeper than 10% installed in loam soils or similar soils with regard to workability. The steep slope is established to permanent vegetation with the flatter 

slope farmed. The terrace is typically constructed at a gradient and is not designed to temporarily store water. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to 

excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Seeding is not included. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of terraces measuring 2,500 feet in length and approximately 2 C.Y. of earthwork per L.F. is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of water and shorten 

slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed 

Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,019.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 42 $4,250.82

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 6 $1,005.54

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 48 $1,756.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #6 - Storage - Grass Back

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of terraces (2,500 feet in length) that have one relatively flat (6:1) front slope and one steep (2:1) back slope constructed in a field 

with slopes steeper than 10% installed in loam soils or similar soils with regard to workability. The steep slope is established to permanent vegetation with the flatter 

slope farmed. Either all, or a portion of the terrace, is constructed to temporarily store water, which is then released with an underground outlet or by other means. Costs 

include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Seeding is not included. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and 

Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of terraces measuring 2,500 feet in length and approximately 3 C.Y. of earthwork per L.F. is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of water and shorten 

slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed 

Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,913.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 63 $6,376.23

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 6 $1,005.54

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 69 $2,525.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #7 - Non-Storage - Narrow Base

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of narrow base terraces with 2:1 slopes and 4,500' length in a field with slopes exceeding 8% constructed in loam soils or similar in 

regards to workability. The terrace is typically constructed at a gradient and is not designed to temporarily store water. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary 

to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Permanent vegetation is established. Seeding is not included. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of narrow base terraces measuring 4,500 feet in length and approximately 1.5 C.Y. of earthwork per L.F. is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of 

water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is typically done with dozer. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed 

Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,065.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 56 $10,337.60

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 3 $502.77

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 59 $2,159.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #8 - Storage - Narrow Base

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of narrow base terraces with 2:1 slopes and 4,500' length in a field with slopes exceeding 10% constructed in loam soils or similar 

in regards to workability. Either all, or a portion of the terrace, is constructed to temporarily store water, which is then released with an underground outlet or by other 

means. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Permanent vegetation is established. Seeding is not included. This 

practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of narrow base terraces measuring 4,500 feet in length and approximately 1.6 C.Y. of earthwork per L.F. is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of 

water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is typically done with dozer. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed 

Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,154.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 60 $11,076.00

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 4 $670.36

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 64 $2,342.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #9 - Narrow Base, Rebuild

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. This scenario pertains to the rebuilding of Narrow Base Terraces in a field that has previously been terraced and the terrace system has exceeded the design life and 

requires restoration. The typical installation is a system of narrow base terraces with 2:1 slopes, 4,500' length, and 2.5' height in a field with slopesfrom 6 to 12% 

constructed in loam soils or similar in regards to workability. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed Waterway, Underground Outlet or through soil 

infiltration. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Permanent vegetation is established. Seeding is not included. 

This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of narrow base terraces with approximately 2:1 front and back slopes measuring 4,500 feet in length and 2.5' height is constructed with spacing designed to 

intercept flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is typically done with dozer. This scenario restores the terrace system in a 

field that was previously terraced. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,102.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 20 $3,692.00

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 3 $502.77

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 23 $841.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #13 - Terrace Crop Season Construction

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of terraces with 2:1 slopes and 4,500' length in a field with slopes exceeding 10% constructed in loam soils or similar in regards to 

workability. Either all, or a portion of the terrace, is constructed to temporarily store water, which is then released with an underground outlet or by other means. Costs 

include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Permanent vegetation is established. Seeding is not included. Foregone income is 

included for the loss of crop income due to construction of the practice during the growing season. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport.

After Situation:

A system of terraces measuring 4,500 feet in length and approximately 1.6 C.Y. of earthwork per L.F. is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of water and 

shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is typically done with dozer. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway 

(412), and Underground Outlet (620).

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,773.67

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 60 $11,076.00

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 4 $670.36

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1 $352.48

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 64 $2,342.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #59 - Broadbased 

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a broadbased terrace having 5:1 upstream and 5:1 downstream slopes measuring 2,500 feet in a field with slopes from 2% to 8% 

constructed in loam soils or similar in regards to workability. Channel and berm are farmed. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed Waterway or 

Underground Outlet. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and 

Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of broadbased terraces measuring 2,500 feet in length, 2.5 height, and 5:1 front and back slopes is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of water and 

shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. The installed terrace is typically farmed. Associated 

practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620). 

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,759.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 34 $3,441.14

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 34 $1,244.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #60 - Flat Channel

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths, and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a flat channel (level) terrace storing runoff with a length of 2,500 feet and side slopes of 8:1 or greater in a field with slopes from 2% to 8% 

constructed in loam soils or similar in regards to workability. Costs include all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. This practice 

addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of flat channel (level) terraces with approximately 8:1 front and back slopes, 2.5 feet height, and 2,500 feet in length is installed with spacing designed to 

intercept flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. The installed terrace is typically 

farmed. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620). 

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,030.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 57 $5,768.97

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 57 $2,086.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #61 - Grass Backed 

Scenario Description:

{Only name change from 5 to 1 & 2 to 1 to Grass Back} An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope 

lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped field. The typical installation is a system of terraces (2,500 feet in length) that have one relatively flat (5:1) 

slope and one steep (2:1) slope constructed in a field with slopes from 2% to 8% installed in loam soils or similar soils in regards to workability. The steep slope is 

established to permanent vegetation with the flatter slope farmed. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed Waterway or Underground Outlet. Costs include 

all equipment and forces necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Seeding is not included. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of terraces with one steep (2:1) and one flat (5:1) slope measuring 2,500 feet in length and 2.5' height is installed with spacing designed to intercept flow of 

water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting 

(342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620). 

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,541.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 19 $1,922.99

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 19 $695.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #62 - Narrow Base, less than 8% slope

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of narrow base terraces with 2:1 slopes, 2,500' length, and 2.5' height in a field with slopes from 3% to 8% constructed in loam 

soils or similar in regards to workability. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed Waterway or Underground Outlet. Costs include all equipment and forces 

necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Permanent vegetation is established. Seeding is not included. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and 

Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of narrow base terraces with approximately 2:1 front and back slopes measuring 2,500 feet in length and 2.5 feet height is constructed with spacing designed to 

intercept flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Associated practices are Critical 

Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620). 

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,230.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 24 $2,429.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 3 $151.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 600 - Terrace

Scenario: #63 - Narrow Base, greater than 8% slope

Scenario Description:

An earthen embankment with channel constructed across the field slope as part of a system to shorten slope lengths and reduce sheet, rill, and gully erosion in a cropped 

field. The typical installation is a system of narrow base terraces with 2:1 slopes, 2,500' length, and 2.5' height in a field with slopes exceeding 8% constructed in loam soils 

or similar in regards to workability. A stable outlet is provided in the form of a Grassed Waterway or Underground Outlet. Costs include all equipment and forces 

necessary to excavate, shape, and compact terrace. Permanent vegetation is established. Seeding is not included. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion and 

Excessive Sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Long slope lengths contribute to excessive sedimentation and soil erosion in cropped fields as a result of gully, rill, and sheet erosion. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. 

After Situation:

A system of narrow base terraces with approximately 2:1 front and back slopes measuring 2,500 feet in length and 2.5' height is constructed with spacing designed to 

intercept flow of water and shorten slope length to reduce erosion to acceptable levels. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Associated practices are Critical 

Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway (412), and Underground Outlet (620). 

Feature Measure: Length of Terrace

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,556.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 26 $2,631.46

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 26 $951.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 601 - Vegetative Barrier

Scenario: #10 - Pac. Island Area Vegetative Barrier

Scenario Description:

Permanent strips of stiff, dense vegetation established along the general contour of slopes.

Before Situation:

Significant erosion is occurring resulting in substantial transport of sediment across the slope. A large amount of sediment is subsequently delivered to the edge of the 

field and/or waterways.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared for the site according to the 601 Vegetative Barrier Standard and is implemented. A strip or strips of stiff, dense vegetation 

such as Vetivier Grass is/are established along the general contour of the slope that effectively settles a significant amount or sediment above the leading edge of the 

vegetative barrier. Barrier may also help to connect green areas to provide shelter for wildlife.

Feature Measure: Linear feet planted

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,827.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Perennial Grass, Legume, and/or 2324

Forb Liners or Plugs, linear 

planting per 100 feet

Perennial grasses, legumes and/or forbs established in a row using 

vegetative propagules including liners or plugs. Includes materials and 

shipping.

100 Foot $858.60 10 $8,586.00
Practice: 601 - Vegetative Barrier

Scenario: #11 - Pacific Islands Area - Vegetative Barrier for Small Area

Scenario Description:

Permanent strips of stiff, dense vegetation established along the general contour of slopes for small areas needing erosion control.

Before Situation:

Significant erosion is occurring resulting in substantial transport of sediment across the slope. A large amount of sediment is subsequently delivered to the edge of the 

field and/or waterways.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared for the site according to the 601 Vegetative Barrier Standard and is implemented. A strip or strips of stiff, dense vegetation of 

a warm season grass established along the general contour of the slope that effectively settles a significant amount or sediment above the leading edge of the vegetative 

barrier. Barrier may also help to connect green areas to provide shelter for wildlife.

Feature Measure: Number of 100 ft segments

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,731.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8,731.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Perennial Grass, Legume, and/or 2324

Forb Liners or Plugs, linear 

planting per 100 feet

Perennial grasses, legumes and/or forbs established in a row using 

vegetative propagules including liners or plugs. Includes materials and 

shipping.

100 Foot $858.60 10 $8,586.00
Practice: 601 - Vegetative Barrier

Scenario: #15 - Seeded Barrier

Scenario Description:

Permanent strips of stiff, dense vegetation established along the general contour of slopes.

Before Situation:

Significant erosion is occurring resulting in substantial transport of sediment across the slope. A large amount of sediment is subsequently delivered to the edge of the 

field and/or waterways.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented for the site according to the Vegetative Barrier (601) standard. A strip or strips of stiff, dense vegetation is 

established by seeding along the general contour of the slope that effectively settles a significant amount of sediment above the leading edge of the vegetative barrier. 

Barrier may also help to connect green areas to provide shelter for wildlife.

Feature Measure: Per 1000 Linear feet of practice inst

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.09 $1.31

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.09 $1.96

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 0.09 $0.93

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.09 $12.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 601 - Vegetative Barrier

Scenario: #16 - Vegetative Planting

Scenario Description:

Permanent strips of stiff, dense vegetation established along the general contour of slopes.

Before Situation:

Significant erosion is occurring resulting in substantial transport of sediment across the slope. A large amount of sediment is subsequently delivered to the edge of the 

field and/or waterways.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements are prepared and implemented for the site according to the Vegetative Barrier (601) standard. A strip or strips of stiff, dense vegetation 

such as Vetiver Grass is/are established along the general contour of the slope that effectively settles a significant amount of sediment above the leading edge of the 

vegetative barrier. Barrier may also help to connect green areas to provide shelter for wildlife.

Feature Measure: Per 100 foot Linear feet of practice 

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $860.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.01 $0.07

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 0.01 $0.08

Ground sprigging 1101 Includes costs for equipment, power unit and labor. Acres $67.27 0.01 $0.67

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 0.46 $0.52

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.01 $0.13

Perennial Grass, Legume, and/or 2324

Forb Liners or Plugs, linear 

planting per 100 feet

Perennial grasses, legumes and/or forbs established in a row using 

vegetative propagules including liners or plugs. Includes materials and 

shipping.

100 Foot $858.60 1 $858.60
Practice: 603 - Herbaceous Wind Barriers

Scenario: #6 - Small Farm Herbaceous Barrier

Scenario Description:

This scenario describes the annual implementation of herbaceous barriers to reduce wind velocities and wind-borne particulate matter. In this scenario barriers are 

composed of annual living vegetation. Plant materials shall be selected for local adaptation and climatic conditions and are resistant to lodging and are non-spreading in 

their habit. Barriers will be designed as close to perpendicular to prevailing winds as practical. Barrier direction, spacing, and composition needed to achieve the desired 

purpose shall be designed using the currently approved wind erosion technology. Establishment is done either by using light tillage or chemical application and no till drill.

Before Situation:

Typically cropland has excessive soil disturbance and un-sheltered distance that results in excessive wind erosion that affect soil resources. Seedling development and 

wildlife habitat are negatively affected by wind-borne sediment and sediment-borne contaminants travelling offsite.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements will be prepared for the site according to the 603 Herbaceous Wind Barrier Standard and implemented. Implementation of herbaceous 

wind barriers will modify the flow and velocity of air dependent upon barrier height, porosity, spacing and wind speed. Orientation is generally placed across an entire 

field perpendicular to applicable prevailing wind direction. Implementation will reduce soil loss; protect growing plants from damage by wind blown soil particles, provide 

food and cover for wildlife. Payment is for the design and implementation of annual barriers and required reestablishment.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet Planted

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $308.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.5 $10.88

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.5 $67.49
Practice: 603 - Herbaceous Wind Barriers

Scenario: #7 - Pacific Island Area Herbaceous Wind Barriers

Scenario Description:

This is for the Pacific Island Area. This scenario describes implementation of warm or cool season perennial herbaceous barriers to reduce wind velocities and wind-borne 

particulate matter. In this scenario barriers are composed of annual living vegetation. Plant materials shall be selected for local adaptation and climatic conditions and are 

resistant to lodging and are non-spreading in their habit. Barriers will be designed as close to perpendicular to prevailing winds as practical. Barrier direction, spacing, and 

composition needed to achieve the desired purpose shall be designed using the currently approved wind erosion technology. Establishment is done either by using light 

tillage or chemical application and no till drill.

Before Situation:

Typically cropland has excessive soil disturbance and unsheltered distance that results in excessive wind erosion that affect soil resources. Seedling development and 

wildlife habitat are negatively affected by wind-borne sediment and sediment-borne contaminants travelling offsite.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements will be prepared for the site according to the 603 Herbaceous Wind Barrier Standard and implemented. Implementation of perennial 

herbaceous wind barriers will modify the flow and velocity of air dependent upon barrier height, porosity, spacing and wind speed. Orientation is generally placed across 

an entire field perpendicular to applicable prevailing wind direction. Implementation will reduce soil loss; protect growing plants from damage by wind blown soil 

particles, provide food and cover for wildlife. Payment is for the establishment of perennial barriers and required reestablishment.

Feature Measure: Feet extablished

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $119.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.06 $0.87

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 0.06 $1.31

Foregone Income

FI, Soybeans Irrigated 1962 Irrigated Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $332.86 0.02 $6.66

FI, Wheat Irrigated 1964 Irrigated Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $301.49 0.02 $6.03

FI, Vegetables 2033 Vegetables is Primary Crop Acres $2,088.46 0.02 $41.77

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2757

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

High Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $228.68 0.06 $13.72
Practice: 603 - Herbaceous Wind Barriers

Scenario: #10 - Cool Season Annual/Perennial Species

Scenario Description:

This scenario describes the implementation of herbaceous barriers to reduce wind velocities and wind-borne particulate matter. In this scenario barriers are composed of 

cool season annual or perennial vegetation. Plant materials shall be selected for local adaptation and climatic conditions and are resistant to lodging and are nonspreading in their habit. Barriers will be designed as close to perpendicular to prevailing winds as practical. Barrier direction, spacing, and composition needed to achieve 

the desired purpose shall be designed using the currently approved wind erosion technology.

Before Situation:

Typically cropland has excessive soil disturbance and unsheltered distance that results in excessive wind erosion that affect soil resources. Seedling development and 

wildlife habitat are negatively affected by wind-borne sediment and sediment-borne contaminants travelling offsite.

After Situation:

Implementation Requirements will be prepared and implemented for the site according to the Herbaceous Wind Barrier (603) standard. Implementation of herbaceous 

wind barriers will modify the flow and velocity of air dependent upon barrier height, porosity, spacing and wind speed. Orientation is generally placed across an entire field 

perpendicular to applicable prevailing wind direction. Implementation will reduce soil loss, protect growing plants from damage by wind-blown soil particles, and provide 

food and cover for wildlife. The scenario includes the design and implementation of annual barriers and required reestablishment.

Feature Measure: linear feet of barrier planted

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $124.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 0.09 $3.67
Practice: 604 - Saturated Buffer

Scenario: #7 - Saturated Buffer

Scenario Description:

Water discharging from a subsurface drainage system is dispersed along a buffer strip (often a riparian buffer). The water flows underground through the buffer area 

where nutrients and sediment can be removed before the water reaches the stream. Resource Concerns: Water Quality Degradation (Nutrients) Associated Practices: 

606 - Subsurface Drain; 554 - Drainage Water Management; 587 - Structure for Water Control

Before Situation:

Water from a subsurface drainage system flows directly into a stream, carrying sediment and nutrients.

After Situation:

Water from a subsurface drainage system is dispersed through at 400 feet of 5' HDPE single wall perforated pipe tile drain along an established vegetated buffer strip at 

least 30 feet from the receiving stream. Drainage pipe is trenched in at 4 feet depth. The water is detained by passing underground where the nitrogen is removed by 

bacteria and natural processes. 

Feature Measure: Length of Dispersal conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,198.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 400 $552.00

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 1 $66.81

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 200 $432.00

Water Level Control Structure, 2021

Inline, 2 Baffle, 10 in. diameter

Inline inlet WCS 6 ft. high x 10 in. diameter connections, 2 baffle (3 

compartments)

Each $2,047.32 1 $2,047.32

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 605 - Denitrifying Bioreactor

Scenario: #11 - Denitrifying Bioreactor

Scenario Description:

'Scenario describes a structure containing a carbon source installed to intercept subsurface drain (tile) flow or ground water, and reduce the concentration of nitratenitrogen. Woodchips serve as the carbon source necessary to the denitrification process. This bioreactor has geotextile fabric (or polyethylene - PE) between the wood 

chips and the surrounding soil plus the following components: woodchip filled pit, two water control structures (to allow management of the flow rate and and free water 

elevation within the bioreactor), and piping to convey water to and from the bioreactor. Woodchips serve as the carbon source necessary to the denitrification process. 

Associated practices: Subsurface Drain (606), Structure for Water Control (587), Drainage Water Management (554). Resource concern: Water Quality Degradation - 

Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters. Management and maintenance of the bioreactor (including chip replenishment), as well as monitoring and reporting to 

demonstrate the performance of the practice are not included in this scenario.'

Before Situation:

Before the installation, the subsurface drainage system is contributing nitrates to a surface water source (ditch or stream), high nitrates are a resource concern to the 

receiving water, and it is feasible to install a bioreactor to reduce the nitrate load from drainage outflows.

After Situation:

Bioreactor has geotextile fabric (or polyethylene - PE) between the wood chips and the surrounding soil plus the following components: woodchip filled pit, two water 

control structures (to allow management of the flow rate and free water elevation within the bioreactor), and piping to convey water to and from the bioreactor. The 

approximate bioreactor excavated pit volume is 333 cubic yards (e.g. 6 feet deep, 15 feet wide and 100 feet long). Woodchips occupy the 6 feet of the pit plus 10% 

crowned (366 cu. yd.) and will be mounded above ground level to shed precipitation. A geotextile fabric (or PE material) surrounds the chips to prevent migration of soil 

into the pit. Water control structures should be installed using practice standard (587) Structure for Water Control. Two inline water control structures are in place. Upper 

WCS connected to the upper 6' diameter single-wall CPT manifold pipe (15' each, note that 6' HDPE dual wall is the only type available and used in the scenario 

components) by 6' diameter dual wall pipe (20' each). 20' of 6' dual wall pipe connects the downstream manifold to the lower WCS which is connected back to the main 

with additional 20' of 6' dual wall pipe. Flow rates are dependent upon the availability of drainage water from the 10' drainage mainline. 40' of mainline is replaced with 

non-perforated 10' above and below the upper WCS. The soil excavated from the pit is spoiled onto the nearby field. Associated practices: Subsurface Drain (606), 

Structure for Water Control (587), Drainage Water Management (554).

Feature Measure: Volume of Pit excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 333.00

Scenario Total Cost: $28,096.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $84.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 807 $879.63

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 333 $809.19

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 333 $1,108.89

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 366 $18,387.84

Trenching, Earth, 24 in. x 60 in. 1460 Trenching, earth, 24 inch wide x 60 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling.

Feet $3.63 50 $181.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 68.4 $147.74

Water Level Control Structure, 2021

Inline, 2 Baffle, 10 in. diameter

Inline inlet WCS 6 ft. high x 10 in. diameter connections, 2 baffle (3 

compartments)

Each $2,047.32 1 $2,047.32

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2145

Inline, fixed costs portion

Fixed cost portion of Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog type. 

Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Materials only.

Each $367.01 1 $367.01

Water Control Structure, Stoplog, 2146

Inline, variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a Water Level Control Structure, Inline stoplog 

type. Typically made of PVC or fiberglass materials. Calculate total 

variable costs by multiplying by the structure height x pipe diameter. 

Materials only.

Height x $18.68 60 $1,120.80

Diameter
Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 2816

wall, <= 12-inch, watertight, 

weight priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe <= 12-inch diameter. Materials only.

Pound $3.84 92.4 $354.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 606 - Subsurface Drain

Scenario: #1 - Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), Single-Wall, <= 6 inch

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of perforated HDPE (Corrugated Plastic Pipe) pipeline, using a drainage plow. HDPE (CPP) Single-Wall is manufactured in sizes 

(nominal diameter) from 3-inch to 24-inch; typical practice sizes range from 3-inch to 12-inch; and typical scenario size is 5-inch. Construct 2,000 feet of 5-inch, SingleWall, perforated HDPE Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), installed below ground to a minimum depth 5 feet. The typical number of mainline connections for 2,000 feet of 

subsurface drainline is a total of 3 each. Consideration must be given to Section 404 of Clean Water Act and Food Security Act regarding wetlands. Resource Concerns: 

Excess Water (Seasonal High Water Table); Degraded Plant Condition; Water Quality Degradation (Nutrients). Associated Practices: 608 - Surface Drain, Main or 

Lateral; 587 - Structure for Water Control, 533 - Pumping Plant; and 554 - Drainage Water Management,412-Grassed Waterway, 410- Grade Stabilization Structure, 313- 

Waste Storage Facility, 412-Grassed Waterway, 410- Grade Stabilization Structure, 313- Waste Storage Facility.

Before Situation:

Before installation soil conditions are excessively wet in the spring due to poor internal soil drainage. Excess soil water is causing crop stress and delay of field operations 

(seed bed preparation, planting, etc.). 

After Situation:

The drainage modifications result in reduced plant stress due to excessive wetness caused by a seasonal high water table, or improved drainage water quality due to 

system retrofit enabling drainage water management.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,091.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 3 $200.43

Trenching, tile line plowing, 1457

earth, 60 in.

Plowing in 3 -15 inch CPP drain line into earth, 60 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching, laying, and backfilling.

Feet $2.38 2000 $4,760.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 3 $109.80

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 1000 $2,160.00

Drainage Lateral Connection 1458 Connect 3-6 inch drainage lateral to main drain, includes excavation to 

6 foot depth, install tee on main line, connect lateral, and backfill. 

Includes material cost for tee.

Each $29.68 3 $89.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 606 - Subsurface Drain

Scenario: #2 - Enveloped Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), Single-Wall, <= 6 inch

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of perforated HDPE (Corrugated Plastic Pipe) pipeline with Sand-Gravel envelope, using a drainage trencher. HDPE (CPP) SingleWall is manufactured in sizes (nominal diameter) from 3-inch to 24-inch; typical practice sizes range from 3-inch to 12-inch; and typical scenario size is 5-inch. Construct 

2,000 feet of 5-inch, Single-Wall, perforated HDPE Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), installed below ground to a minimum depth of 5 feet, and surrounded with a sand-gravel 

envelope. The typical volume sand-gravel for 2,000 feet of 12'wide x 12' high envelope is 64 cubic yards. The typical number of mainline connections for 2,000 feet of 

subsurface drainline is a total of 3 each. Consideration must be given to Section 404 of Clean Water Act and Food Security Act regarding wetlands. Resource Concerns: 

Excess Water (seasonal High Water Table); Degraded Plant Condition; Water Quality Degradation (Nutrients). Associated Practices: 608 - Surface Drain, Main or 

Lateral; 587 - Structure for Water Control, 533 - Pumping Plant; and 554 - Drainage Water Management, 412-Grassed Waterway, 410- Grade Stabilization Structure, 313- 

Waste Storage Facility.

Before Situation:

Before installation soil conditions are excessively wet in the spring due to poor internal soil drainage. Excess soil water is causing crop stress and delay of field operations 

(seed bed preparation, planting, etc.). 

After Situation:

The drainage modifications result in reduced plant stress due to excessive wetness caused by a seasonal high water table, or improved drainage water quality due to 

system retrofit enabling drainage water management.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,499.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Track Loader, 95HP 935 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $97.98 10 $979.80

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 60 in. 1459 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 60 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching, laying 3 to 6 inch CPP drain line with envelope, and 

backfilling.

Feet $1.86 2000 $3,720.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 11 $402.60

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 64 $1,376.64

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 1000 $2,160.00

Drainage Lateral Connection 1458 Connect 3-6 inch drainage lateral to main drain, includes excavation to 

6 foot depth, install tee on main line, connect lateral, and backfill. 

Includes material cost for tee.

Each $29.68 3 $89.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 606 - Subsurface Drain

Scenario: #3 - Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), Single-Wall, >= 8 inch

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of HDPE (Corrugated Plastic Pipe) pipeline, using a drainage plow. HDPE (CPP) Single-Wall is manufactured in sizes (nominal 

diameter) from 3-inch to 24-inch; typical practice sizes range from 3-inch to 12-inch; and typical scenario size is 10-inch. Construct 1,000 feet of 10-inch, Single-Wall, HDPE 

Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), installed below ground to a minimum depth 5 feet. Consideration must be given to Section 404 of Clean Water Act and Food Security Act 

regarding wetlands. Resource Concerns: Excess Water (Seasonal High Water Table); Degraded Plant Condition; Water Quality Degradation (Nutrients). Associated 

Practices: 607 - Surface Drain, Field Ditch; 608 - Surface Drain, Main or Lateral; 587 - Structure for Water Control, 533 - Pumping Plant; and 554 - Drainage Water 

Management, 412-Grassed Waterway, 410- Grade Stabilization Structure, 313- Waste Storage Facility.

Before Situation:

Before installation soil conditions are excessively wet in the spring due to poor internal soil drainage. Excess soil water is causing crop stress and delay of field operations 

(seed bed preparation, planting, etc.). 

After Situation:

The drainage modifications result in reduced plant stress due to excessive wetness caused by a seasonal high water table, or improved drainage water quality due to 

system retrofit enabling drainage water management.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,268.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, tile line plowing, 1457

earth, 60 in.

Plowing in 3 -15 inch CPP drain line into earth, 60 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching, laying, and backfilling.

Feet $2.38 1000 $2,380.00

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 1800 $3,888.00
Practice: 606 - Subsurface Drain

Scenario: #4 - Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), Twin-Wall, >= 8 inch

Scenario Description:

Description: Below ground installation of HDPE (Corrugated Plastic Pipe) pipeline, using a drainage plow. HDPE (CPP) Twin-Wall is manufactured in sizes (nominal 

diameter) from 4-inch to 60-inch; typical practice sizes range from 8-inch to 15-inch; and typical scenario size is 12-inch. Construct 1,000 feet of 12-inch, Twin-Wall, HDPE 

Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP), installed below ground to a minimum depth 5 feet. Consideration must be given to Section 404 of Clean Water Act and Food Security Act 

regarding wetlands. Resource Concerns: Excess Water (Seasonal High Water Table); Degraded Plant Condition; Water Quality Degradation (Nutrients). Associated 

Practices: 607 - Surface Drain, Field Ditch; 608 - Surface Drain, Main or Lateral; 587 - Structure for Water Control, 533 - Pumping Plant; and 554 - Drainage Water 

Management, 412-Grassed Waterway, 410- Grade Stabilization Structure, 313- Waste Storage Facility.

Before Situation:

Before installation soil conditions are excessively wet in the spring due to poor internal soil drainage. Excess soil water is causing crop stress and delay of field operations 

(seed bed preparation, planting, etc.). 

After Situation:

The drainage modifications result in reduced plant stress due to excessive wetness caused by a seasonal high water table, or improved drainage water quality due to 

system retrofit enabling drainage water management.

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,493.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 24 in. x 60 in. 1460 Trenching, earth, 24 inch wide x 60 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling.

Feet $3.63 1000 $3,630.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 68 $1,623.84

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1587

wall, LTE-12 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe LTE-12 inch diameter. Materials only.

Pound $3.20 3200 $10,240.00
Practice: 606 - Subsurface Drain

Scenario: #5 - Secondary Main Retrofit for DWM

Scenario Description:

An agricultural field has existing patterned tile system installed at 75 foot spacings. The field is 75 acres in size: 2475' x 1320', with a single main line at the low end of the 

field (2475'). The laterals are installed perpendicular to the topographic contours. The field has 3.5 feet of fall in the 1/4 mile length of the laterals, so a secondary main 

will be needed to allow drainage water management to be implemented on the higher half of the field.

Before Situation:

The patterned tile drainage system allows free flow of drainage water to a receiving ditch. Drainage water carries nitrogen and phosphorus out of the soil and these 

nutrients pollute the receiving waters.

After Situation:

A 12 inch diameter secondary mainline is retrofitted to the drainage system, located halfway up the field and relatively parallel to the topographic contours. This new 

mainline is hooked to each individual lateral and continued to a stable outlet. A Drainage Water practice must be completed along with the mainline; typically Structures 

for Water Control (587) installed at two foot vertical intervals so that water can be retained in the field. This scenario also applies to systems where the secondary main is 

used to connect drain lines that formerly each exited separately to the ditch, with a structure that distributes the drainage water into the subsurface soil at a vegetated 

buffer (772) OR a Denitrifying Bioreactor (747) might be installed at the outlet. In combination or singly, one of these practices must be installed with the secondary main. 

Feature Measure: Length of Pipe

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,135.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,254.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, tile line plowing, 1457

earth, 60 in.

Plowing in 3 -15 inch CPP drain line into earth, 60 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching, laying, and backfilling.

Feet $2.38 3135 $7,461.30

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 8260.72 $17,843.16

Drainage Lateral Connection 1458 Connect 3-6 inch drainage lateral to main drain, includes excavation to 

6 foot depth, install tee on main line, connect lateral, and backfill. 

Includes material cost for tee.

Each $29.68 32 $949.76
Practice: 607 - Surface Drain, Field Ditch

Scenario: #7 - Field Drainage Ditch

Scenario Description:

This scenario is the construction of a surface drain, field ditch. Typical construction dimensions are 4' bottom x 2.5' deep x 1320' length with a side slope of 3:1. Excess 

water is either reused in an Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery (447) system, or conveyed to a receiving water body. Resource concerns: Excess/Insufficient Water - 

Inefficient Use of Irrigation Water and Water Quality Degradation - Excessive Sediment in Surface Waters. Associated Conservation Practices: 608-Surface Drain, Main or 

Lateral; 587 -Structure For Water Control; 554 - Drainage Water Management

Before Situation:

Excess water has no outlet and backs up into the fields causing damage or loss of the crop. 

After Situation:

An earthen ditch that follows the natural slope of the land at the low end of the field will be constructed to carry excess water to an outlet. 

Feature Measure: Volume of Earth Excavated

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,406.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,030.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 1406 $3,416.58

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 609 - Surface Roughening

Scenario: #29 - Tillage for Random Surface Roughness

Scenario Description:

Emergency Tillage on soils that are stable enough to sustain effective ridges and cloddiness and have a high wind erosion potential due to lack of surface cover. Wind 

erodibility factor (I) is less than 104.

Before Situation:

Current well -planned and properly applied wind erosion control systems have failed. Tillage operations have not effectively reduced soil erosion from wind and windborne sediment, Particulate Matter emissions occur. Crop damage from wind-borne particles can occur.

After Situation:

Emergency Tillage has been conducted to produce random roughness (RR) values large enough to achieve a 25% reduction in the potential erosion rate, or reduced wind 

erosion during the management period by 25%.

Feature Measure: Acres of Surface Roughening

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,038.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $25.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 160 $3,534.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00
Practice: 609 - Surface Roughening

Scenario: #30 - Tillage with Wind Erodibility factor (I) greater than 104

Scenario Description:

Emergency Tillage on soils that are stable enough to sustain effective ridges and cloddiness and have a high wind erosion potential due to lack of surface cover.

Before Situation:

Current well-planned and properly applied wind erosion control systems have failed. Tillage operations have not effectively reduced soil erosion from wind and windborne sediment, Particulate Matter emissions occur. Crop damage from wind-borne particles can occur.

After Situation:

Emergency Tillage has been conducted to produce random roughness (RR) values large enough to achieve a 25% reduction in the potential erosion rate, or reduced wind 

erosion during the management period by 25%.

Feature Measure: Acres of Surface Roughening

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,316.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $26.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Ripper or subsoiler, 16 to 36 inch 1235

depth

Deep ripper or subsoiler, (16-36 inches depth) includes tillage 

implement, power unit and labor.

Acres $23.83 160 $3,812.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00
Practice: 610 - Salinity and Sodic Soil Management

Scenario: #1 - Soil Management (non-Irrigated) 

Scenario Description:

The producer secures training in Salinity and Sodic Soil Management, analyzes subsurface conditions in areas in and around a saline seep and using information gained 

from training and field observations carrys out a Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan employing as applicable changes in Conservation Cropping Systems, Critical Area 

Planting, Nutrient Management and use of soil amendments. Scenario includes cost of attending a 6 hr University, NRCS, or commodity group sponsored training session 

and 40 hours of mgt labor a year to analyze available data and field situation, then review, and modify as necessary the Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan and 

continue to carry it out. Resource Concerns: Soil Quality Degradation - Concentration of salts or other chemicals, and Water Quality Degradation- Excessive salts in 

surface and ground waters. Associated Practices: 328 -Conservation Cropping System; 342- Critical Area Planting; and 590 - Nutrient Management. 

Before Situation:

A crop-fallow system on sodic and saline soils has resulted in saline seeps. The recharge area of the seep must be determined before the extents of the treatment can be 

planned. An analyses of the subsurface conditions in areas in and around a saline is completed on 95 acres of recharge area surrounding a 5 acre saline seep in order to 

determine groundwater gradients and limits of the recharge area. 

After Situation:

A determination of extent of recharge area has been made. The area to be treated has been identified. The producer has developed and is carrying out a Salinity and Sodic 

Soil Management Plan. Deep percolation in the recharge area is eliminated and salts no longer leach into the ground or surface water. 

Feature Measure: Acres included in Salinity and Sodic 

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,132.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $21.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00
Practice: 610 - Salinity and Sodic Soil Management

Scenario: #2 - Soil Management (non-Irrigated) (FI - 1 Yr)

Scenario Description:

The producer secures training in Salinity and Sodic Soil Management, analyzes subsurface conditions in areas in and around a saline seep and using information gained 

from training and field observations carrys out a Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan employing as applicable changes in Conservation Cropping Systems, Critical Area 

Planting, Nutrient Management and use of soil amendments. Scenario includes cost of attending a 6 hr University, NRCS, or commodity group sponsored training session 

and 40 hours of mgt labor a year to analyze available data and field situation, then review, and modify as necessary the Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan and 

continue to carry it out. Resource Concerns: Soil Quality Degradation - Concentration of salts or other chemicals, and Water Quality Degradation- Excessive salts in 

surface and ground waters. Associated Practices: 328 -Conservation Cropping System; 342- Critical Area Planting; and 590 - Nutrient Management. 

Before Situation:

A crop-fallow system on sodic and saline soils has resulted in obvious saline areas (seeps) in the field. The recharge area of the seep must be determined before the 

extents of the treatment can be planned. Analysis of the soil conditions in areas in and around the affected saline areas (2, five acres seeps) has not been completed. The 

remaining 90 acres of the field will be assessed to determine groundwater gradients and extents of the recharge area.

After Situation:

A determination of extent of recharge area has been made. The area to be treated has been identified (10 acres). Treatments include: soil testing to determine the salt 

concentrations, establishing permanent vegetative cover in saline areas (342), modify the crop rotation to increase seasonal water use (328), and reduced tillage practices 

(either 345 or 329). The producer has developed and is carrying out a Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan. The water cycle is balanced to minimize upward 

movement of salts to the surface, reducing evaporation, resulting in increase productivity across the field Ten acres of dryland wheat will be replaced with grass due to the 

saline/sodic conditions.. 

Feature Measure: Acres included in Salinity and Sodic 

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,629.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Foregone Income

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 10 $1,959.80

FI, Hay, General Grass 2122 General Grass Hay is Primary Land Use Ton $49.18 -10 ($491.80)

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 2 $29.08
Practice: 610 - Salinity and Sodic Soil Management

Scenario: #3 - Soil Management (Irrigated)

Scenario Description:

The producer secures training in Salinity and Sodic Soil Management and develops and carries out a Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan. Scenario includes cost of 

attending a 6 hr University, NRCS, or commodity group sponsored training session and 12 hours of mgt labor a year to analyze available data and field situation, develop 

(or review and modify as necessary) plan and carry it out. Sampling on a 3-5 year interval is recommended if conditional soils are irrigated or marginal irrigation water is 

used.. Monitor (sample) one site per 40 acres of each major soil. Monitoring procedures include; GPS reference all sites, duplicate (2 samples) all sites of each major soil, 

sample after harvest, sampled to a depth of 6 feet and examined to 10 feet noting water table depth. Also sample each genetic soil horizon or portion no greater than 12 

inches. Monitoring should be done by or under the supervision of an experienced soil scientist. Resource Concerns: Soil Quality Degradation - Concentration of salts or 

other chemicals, and Water Quality Degradation- Excessive salts in surface and ground waters. Associated Practices: 328-Conservation Crop Rotation; 449-Irrigation 

Water Management; and 590-Nutrient Management.

Before Situation:

Salintiy and or Sodic conditions have developed in the root zone of a 100 acre irrigated cropland field resulting in decreased soil quality, plant health problems, and yield 

reductions. 

After Situation:

Producer conducts soil conductivity and salinity test to determine the root zone depth of water application necessary for flushing accumulated salts and maintaining a 

proper salt balance. Producer conducts irrigation suitability test of water supply results to determine suitability of applied water for irrigation and additional irrigation 

volumes needed for leaching. Routine periodic checks of water EC will be conducted by producer to monitor for water salinity which might require changes to Salinity and 

Sodic Soil Management Plan. The Salinity and Sodic Soil Management Plan is carried out employing soil and water testing and as applicable changes in Irrigation Water 

Management (449), Conservation Crop Rotation (328), tillage, and use of soil amendments. The producer has developed and is carrying out a Salinity and Sodic Soil 

Management Plan resulting in improved soil quality and plant health. 

Feature Measure: Acres included in Salinity and Sodic 

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,405.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $34.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, 310

Irrigation Suitability

Irrigation water suitability lab analysis. Includes pH, alkalinity, 

carbonates/bicarbonates, EC, dissolved solids, B, Cl, Ca, Mg, Na, SAR, 

and hardness.

Each $56.80 1 $56.80

Testing, soil sampling and EC 2055

analysis, bore hole

Collecting and testing 5 soil samples per 60 inch bore hole. Inclueds EC 

measurements. Includes equipment and labor.

Hours $304.20 4 $1,216.80
Practice: 610 - Salinity and Sodic Soil Management

Scenario: #16 - Prevent Dry Intense Cropping

Scenario Description:

After identification of the recharge area by the use of monitoring wells or EMI meter a salinity management plan will include treatment of the recharge area. In this 

scenario, a recharge area 60 acres is determined during the inventory process, a salinity management plan that includes an annual soil analysis is developed and carried 

out on a dryland field. Salinity Management Plan will include proper inventory of soil and water resources in the recharge and seep areas including an annual soil moisture 

with water supply analysis. Forgone income is based on the recharge area being a dry land corn field, converted to an alfalfa. Forgone income is loss of corn income less 

income from alfalfa sold. The alfalfa will be harvested, and sold, and removed from the recharge area once a year. Resource Concerns: Soil Quality Degradation - 

Concentration of salts or other chemicals, and Water Quality Degradation- Excessive salts in surface and ground waters. Associated Practices: 328 - Conservation Cropping 

System; 342- Critical Area Planting.

Before Situation:

A Cropping system prior to mitigation typically included a corn/bean rotation was grown for the entire season. Either conventional tillage or chemical fallow was used to 

control weeds. The rotation was followed regardless of subsoil moisture conditions, resulting in excessive moisture percolating out of the root zone and causing a saline 

seep 'downstream' where the water resurfaces.

After Situation:

After saline seep recharge area is determined in a inventory process a salinity management plan will address the salinity issues with an intensive cropping system that 

utilizes excess subsoil moisture is implemented and maintained to reduce, remove, and prevent recurrence of a saline seep. Intensive cropping systems for this practice 

are those that prevent subsoil moisture from building up and leaving the root zone. Alfalfa must be removed as part of proper management plan and generally can be 

sold. After the seep has been reclaimed, an intensive cropping system must be maintained to ensure the seep does not reappear.

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,836.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $280.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 60 $21,148.80

FI, Hay, Alfalfa 2121 Alfalfa Hay is Primary Crop Ton $103.89 -60 ($6,233.40)

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Testing, soil sampling and EC 2055

analysis, bore hole

Collecting and testing 5 soil samples per 60 inch bore hole. Inclueds EC 

measurements. Includes equipment and labor.

Hours $304.20 3 $912.60
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #1 - Individual tree - hand planting

Scenario Description:

Tree seedlings will be hand planted in the forested area where few or no forest trees are growing, the existing stand of trees needs underplanting, or the previously 

planted seedling tree stocking level is below desirable conditions. Wildlife habitat is degraded by loss of forest conditions. The resource concerns addressed are 

degraded plant condition: inadequate structure and compositio, and inadequate wildlife & fish habitat. 

Before Situation:

The stocking level of the forest does not meet the minimum recommended number of trees per acre. The existing condition of the forest stand does not meet the 

landowner's objectives. To be a viable forest, additional seedlings need planting. Wildlife habitat is rated poor. 

After Situation:

The prescribed number of trees are hand planted on 20 acres and the objectives of the landowner are met. The forest will provide wildlife habitat, long term ground 

cover, and capture atmospheric carbon. 

Feature Measure: Area Planted

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 6,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,102.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 100 $1,251.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 6000 $7,680.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #2 - Individual tree - hand planting w/browse protection

Scenario Description:

Tree seedlings will be hand planted in the forested area where few or no forest trees are growing, the existing stand of trees needs underplanting, or the previously 

planted seedling tree stocking level is below desirable conditions. Seedlings are protected from wildlife browsing. Wildlife habitat is degraded by loss of forest 

conditions. The resource concerns addressed include degraded plant condition: inadequate structure and composition and inadequate wildlife & fish habitat. 

Before Situation:

The stocking level does not meet the minimum recommended number of trees per acre and does not meet the landowner's objectives. To be a viable forest, additional 

seedlings need planting. Wildlife habitat is rated poor. Wildlife are known to browse tree seedlings in the area causing great damage.

After Situation:

The prescribed number of trees are hand planted, and the objectives of the landowner are met. Seedlings are protected from widlife browsing by installing some type of 

protective device. A forest will provide wildlife habitat, long term ground cover, and capture atmospheric carbon. 

Feature Measure: Each Planted Seedling

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 6,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $44,461.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 100 $1,251.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 230 $5,492.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 6000 $7,680.00

Tree shelter, wire mesh 1557 5 feet tall, Woven Wire mesh, 6x6 inch opening or smaller, 10 gauge 

wire (minimum) cage placed around seedling for animal protection. 

Materials only.

Each $2.34 6000 $14,040.00

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 6000 $14,580.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #3 - Trees, Machine planted with tubes for animal protection

Scenario Description:

This practice involves planting tree seedlings after the site has been prepared for seedling growth and establishment. The productivity of the site is good and will handle a 

medium density planting rate. Typical scenario will consist of 1000 feet of trees with tubes for animal protection. The resource concerns addressed are degraded plant 

condition: undesirable plant productivity and health, inadequate structure and composition, and degraded wildlife habitat. Terrain is moderately sloping and will be 

planted with a mechanical tree planter. Smaller size seedlings (1-0) are planted.

Before Situation:

The land has little or no tree cover, or is stocked with the wrong tree species. Competing vegetation is a concern before and after planting. Soil condition is degraded due 

to the loss of the native forest ecosystem (organic matter in topsoil depleted). Native wildlife habitat is lacking. The main resource concern is degraded plant condition: 

inadequate structure and composition.

After Situation:

Land is established with permanent tree cover that will improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, sequester carbon and reduce 

invasive species presence. Establishing forest vegetation also creates corridors for wildlife movement. Planted trees have vexar tubes, or something similar, installed as 

protection from animal damage. 

Feature Measure: Number of Trees

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,273.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 100 $100.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 100 $667.00

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 100 $7.00

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 100 $243.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #4 - Trees, Machine planted - no tubes

Scenario Description:

This practice involves planting tree seedlings after the site has been prepared for seedling growth and establishment. The productivity of the site is good and will handle a 

medium density planting rate. Typical scenario will consist of 1000 feet of trees. The resource concerns addressed are degraded plant condition: undesirable plant 

productivity and health, inadequate structure and composition, and degraded wildlife habitat. Terrain is moderately sloping and will be planted with a mechanical tree 

planter. Smaller size seedlings (1-0) are planted.

Before Situation:

The land has little or no tree cover, or is stocked with the wrong tree species. Competing vegetation is a concern before and after planting. Soil condition is degraded due 

to the loss of the native forest ecosystem (organic matter in topsoil depleted). Native wildlife habitat is lacking. The main resource concern is degraded plant condition: 

inadequate structure and composition.

After Situation:

Land is established with permanent tree cover that will improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, sequester carbon and reduce 

invasive species presence. Establishing forest vegetation also creates corridors for wildlife movement. 

Feature Measure: Number of Trees

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $356.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 100 $100.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #6 - Trees, Machine planted, no tubes, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. This practice involves planting of tree seedlings after the site has been prepared for seedling growth and 

establishment. The productivity of the site is good and will handle a medium density planting rate. Typical scenario will consist of 1000 feet of trees. The resource 

concerns addressed are degraded plant condition: undesirable plant productivity and health, inadequate structure and composition, and degraded wildlife habitat. 

Terrain is moderatey sloping and will be planted with a mechanical tree planter. Smaller size seedlings (1-0) are planted.

Before Situation:

The land has little or no tree cover, or is stocked with the wrong tree species. Competing vegetation is a concern before and after planting. Soil condition is degraded due 

to the loss of the native forest ecosystem (organic matter in top soil depleted). Native wildlife habitat is lacking. The main resource concern is degraded plant condition: 

inadequate structure and composition. The area generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

Land is established with permanent tree cover that will improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, sequester carbon and reduce 

invasive species presence. Establishing forest vegetation also creates corridors for wildlife movement. Greatly improved success rate of the windbreak due to the 

supplemental water during establishment. 

Feature Measure: Number of Trees

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $885.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 100 $100.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 4000 $360.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #7 - Hardwood Planting 1 gal pots

Scenario Description:

Hardwood seedlings (potted) to be planted to reestablish an upland hardwood forest. Planting will be by hand. The resource setting is an area that historically was an 

upland hardwood forest. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition: undesireable productivity and health, inadequate structure and composition, and inadequate 

habitat for fish and wildlife. 

Before Situation:

The native forest has been removed and the land is either cropped, grazed, hayed or brushy forest. If any upland trees exist, they are of poor quality or are undesirable 

species. Terrain is gently to moderately sloping with sheet and rill soil erosion occurring.

After Situation:

The area of treatment is 10 acres. Potted/containerized hardwood seedlings are planted by hand. Post vegetation control should be evaluated and conducted if necessary.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,269.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,426.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 15 $187.65

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 34 $811.92

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 1500 $13,065.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #9 - Shrub Planting

Scenario Description:

Shrubs are planted to provide a more diverse habitat. Plantings are in either uplands or bottomlands. The site lacks ground level habitat structure and diversity for 

widlife. Resource concern is inadequate habitat for fish and wildife - habitat fragmentation. 

Before Situation:

No shrubbery vegetation, or very little, is present in the forest understory. Wildlife species that need shrub cover are not present. An adequate stand of overstory trees is 

present, but it is a single level, versus the desired multi-level structure. 

After Situation:

A 10 acre area is planted with shrubs. Shrubs are not planted over the entire 10 acres. They are planted in groups or motts. The motts, roughly circular in shape, are 50 

feet in diameter, with 50 shrubs planted within each mott. 4 motts are planted per acre, for a total of 200 shrubs per acre. Motts are randomly established to take 

advantage of site conditions and shrub species being planted. 

Feature Measure: Per plant

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,176.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 10 $125.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 14 $334.32

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 2000 $2,160.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #10 - Shrub Thicket

Scenario Description:

Shrubs are planted to provide a more diverse habitat. Plantings are in either uplands or bottomlands. The site lacks ground level habitat structure and diversity for 

widlife. Resource concern is inadequate habitat for fish and wildife - habitat fragmentation. 

Before Situation:

No shrubbery vegetation, or very little, is present in the forest understory. Wildlife species that need shrub cover are not present. An adequate stand of overstory trees is 

present, but it is a single level, versus the desired multi-level structure.

After Situation:

A 30x50 foot area is planted with 150 shrubs forming a dense thicket. The thicket is established to take advantage of site conditions and shrub species being planted. 

Feature Measure: Per shrub

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $422.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 0.5 $7.27

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 150 $162.00

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 10 $1.30
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #56 - Conifer seedling - hand planting - tree protection

Scenario Description:

Conifer tree seedlings will be hand planted in an area where forest is the objective. The area either lacks the desired number and species of forest trees, the existing stand 

will benefit from underplanting, and/or the previously planted seedling tree stocking level is below desirable conditions. Wildlife habitat will be improved by establishment 

of new trees. Standard forestry methods will be used to protect planted seedlings from environmental conditions. Resource concerns addressed are: Degraded Plant 

Condition - Inadequate structure and composition, and Inadequate wildlife & fish habitat.

Before Situation:

The stocking level does not meet the minimum recommended number of trees per acre and does not meet landowner objectives. Wildlife habitat is inadequate. Plant 

condition will not improve unless tree seedlings are planted. Environmental conditions are adverse to seedling survival and protection will be needed.

After Situation:

The prescribed number of trees are hand planted on 20 acres, and the objectives of the landowner are met. Seedlings are protected by tree shelters to improve survival 

rates. The future forest will provide wildlife habitat, long-term ground cover, and carbon sequestration/storage.

Feature Measure: Each Planted Seedling

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 6,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,573.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 12 $150.12

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 112 $2,674.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 6000 $7,680.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 6000 $3,180.00

Stake, bamboo, 3/8 in. x 36 in. 1584 3/8 in. x 36 in. bamboo stakes to anchor items in place. Inlcudes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $0.24 12000 $2,880.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 100 $100.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #57 - Conifer seedling - hand planting, medium density - tree protection

Scenario Description:

This practice involves planting of tree seedlings after the site has been prepared for seedling growth and establishment. The productivity of the site is good and will handle 

a medium density planting rate. Terrain is moderately to steeply sloping, which is too steep to be planted with a mechanical tree planter, so hand planting will be used. 

Standard forestry methods will be used to protect planted seedlings from environmental conditions. Resource concerns addressed are: Degraded Plant Condition - 

Undesirable plant productivity and health, Inadequate structure and composition, and Inadequate wildlife & fish habitat.

Before Situation:

The land has little or no tree cover, or is stocked with undesirable tree species. Competing vegetation and other environmental impacts are a concern both before and 

after planting. Soil condition is degraded due to the loss of the native forest ecosystem (organic matter in topsoil has been depleted). The main resource concern is 

Degraded Plant Condition - Inadequate structure and composition.

After Situation:

Permanent tree cover is established on 40 acres of land, and the objectives of the landowner are met. Half of planted trees have vexar tubes, or similar, installed to 

improve survival rates. The future forest will improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, sequester carbon, and reduce the 

abundance of invasive species.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $37,171.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $929.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 30 $375.30

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 180 $4,298.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 18000 $17,280.00

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 24 1555

in.

24 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $0.53 9000 $4,770.00

Stakes, bamboo 3/8 in. x 48 in. 1585 3/8 in. x 48 in. bamboo stakes to anchor items in place. Inlcudes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $0.44 18000 $7,920.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #58 - Medium Density-hand plant Conifer

Scenario Description:

This practice involves planting of tree seedlings after the site has been prepared for seedling growth and establishment. The productivity of the site is good and will handle 

a medium density planting rate. Resource concerns addressed are degraded plant condition -- undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and 

composition and degraded wildlife habitat. Terrain is moderatey to steeply sloping, too steep to be planted with a mechanical tree planter so the area is hand planted. 

Before Situation:

The land has a little/no tree cover, or is stocked with the wrong tree species. Competing vegetation is a before and after planting concern. Soil condition is degraded due 

to the lose of the native forest ecosystem (organic matter in top soil depleted). The main resource concerns are degraded plant condition and inadequate structure and 

composition

After Situation:

40 acres of land is established with permanent tree cover that will improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, sequester carbon and 

reduce invasive species presence. Establishing forest vegetation also creates corridors for wildlife movement. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,833.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $495.83

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 30 $375.30

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 36 $859.68

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 18000 $17,280.00
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #59 - High Density planting

Scenario Description:

This practice applies to forestlands that are being actively managed. Tree seedlings are planted after the site has been prepared for seedling establishment and growth. 

Forest site productivity is high or very high and dense planting is planned. Larger containerized seedlings are planted. Resource concerns addressed are degraded plant 

condition -- undesirable plant productivity and health, and inadequate structure and composition and degraded wildlife habitat. Terrain conditions allow for mechanical 

tree planting

Before Situation:

The land lacks forest cover and needs replanting, is stocked with the wrong tree species, or is a nonstocked field. Seedlings selected are appropriate for the site and site 

conidtions. The main resource concerns are degraded plant condition and inadequate structure and composition. Competing vegetation is a before and after planting 

concern. Soil condition is degraded due to the loss organic matter in top soil. Tree seedlings with larger size root systems are planted to compete with other vegetation.

After Situation:

50 acres of land is established with permanent tree cover that will improve degraded plant condition, establish wildlife habitat, sequester atmospheric carbon. 

Establishing forest vegetation also creates corridors for wildlife movement. Actions should be planned with competing vegetation concerns. 

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $51,534.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,030.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 34 $2,687.36

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 14 $358.40

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 34 $204.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 37 $1,152.18

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 14 $705.60

Materials

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Medium 1514 Containerized conifer seedlings, 8 or 10 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 1+1 (two-year old seedlings that grew one year in the 

original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed), or bare root 

seedlings 2+0 (two-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1.28 34000 $43,520.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, Material, distance > 1043

50 miles

Mobilization cost of materials for special cases where the distance from 

the supplier delivery point to the job site exceeds 50 miles. The costs for 

shipping by UPS or bulk freight shipping to a location within 50 miles of 

the job site have already been included in the component price.

Dollars $1.00 100 $100.00

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #60 - Hardwood Hand Planting-bare root-protected

Scenario Description:

Improves forest density and/or composition in an existing forested setting by hand planting hardwood tree seedlings. Standard forestry procedures are used to protect 

seedlings. The number of trees to plant is lower than establishing a new forest. Resource concerns are: Degraded plant condition - undesirable productivity and health, 

and inadequate structure and composition; Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife - habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

In an existing upland forest the present trees are poor quality, at low stocking levels, or are undesirable species. Existing conditions do not meet landowner objectives of 

growing high quality trees. Wildlife habitat is inadequate due to existing forest conditions. Resource concerns are: Degraded plant condition - undesirable productivity and 

health, and inadequate structure and composition; Inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife - habitat degradation. Any needed vegetation control will be conducted prior 

to planting.

After Situation:

The area of treatment is 10 acres. Bare root hardwood seedlings are planted by hand in the best locations for seedling survival and are protected from environmental 

conditions with tube shelters. Post-planting vegetation control is planned to ensure seedling survival.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,719.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,171.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 8 $100.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 56 $1,337.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 1500 $1,500.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 3- 1560

1/4 in. x 30 in.

3-1/4 inch x 30 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. 

Materials and shipping only.

Each $3.25 1500 $4,875.00

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 1581

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.17 1500 $1,755.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #62 - Hardwood Est.-Direct Seeding

Scenario Description:

Native seed (acorns, nuts, etc) from natvie tree species are directly planted in the soil. Site preparation is completed (discing to eliminate competing vegetation). The 

native seed are collected/purchased locally so as to get trees known to be adapted to local conditions. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition, inadequate 

habitat for fish and widllife. 

Before Situation:

The hardwood forest is degrading. High value species, lumber and widlife habitat, are not regenerating due to changes in the natural disturbance regime or past 

harvesting. Unwanted shade tolerant tree species have regenerated and are in the overstory competing with desirable species as well as in the mid and understory where 

they will eventually out-compete with desirable species. 

After Situation:

Seed from native species are collected or purchased and planted at prescribed rates. Site preparation is done prior to direct seeding. Degraded plant condition is on an 

upward trend and habitat for wildlife will improve. 

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,572.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $657.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 4 $58.16

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 10 $141.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Trees and shrubs, seed 1871 Tree or shrub seed, e.g., acorns, to establish trees. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Pound $9.36 600 $5,616.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #63 - Tree/shrub Planted Area with Protection

Scenario Description:

Tree seedlings will be hand planted in a forested area where few or no forest trees are currently growing. When implemeted with the guidance of a professional forester, a 

well-stocked stand of a predetermined species composition will result. Standard forestry measures are used to provide temporary protection for planted trees, to improve 

the liklihood of successful establishment and achieve landowner objectives for future forest stand composition. Seedlings are protected by temporary 8' high fencing 

materials or poly netting, designed to be moved when regeneration is established. Resource concerns include: Degraded Plant Condition - Inadequate structure and 

composition, Undesirable plant productivity and health, and/or Inadequate wildlife & fish habitat; and/or Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface 

waters.

Before Situation:

Forest stands lack the desired species composition and/or structure, and/or have been impacted by environmental stressors and are unhealthy. Wildlife habitat is 

inadequate. Forest conditions do not meet landowner objectives. Environmental conditions are limiting to natural forest regeneration and establishment, and tree 

planting along with temporary protection will be needed. Primary resource concerns are Degraded Plant Condition - Inadequate structure and composition and 

Inadequate wildlife & fish habitat.

After Situation:

Trees have been successfully established on 20 acres of forest land. The regrowing forest exhibits the planned mix of diverse native tree species. The future forest will 

improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, and sequester carbon.

Feature Measure: area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,159.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,057.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 30 $768.00

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 30 $436.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 60 $1,432.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 30 $1,512.00

Materials

Wire, Woven, Wildlife, 96 in. 6 High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 96 inch - 330 foot roll. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $677.38 12 $8,128.56

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 13

12-14 ft.

Wood Post, Line/End 6 inch dia. X 12-14 ft., CCA Treated. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $37.02 30 $1,110.60

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 10 ft. 17 Steel Post, Studded 10 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.28 30 $368.40

Fence, Wire Assembly, Woven 35

Wire

Brace pins, twist sticks, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.15 3750 $562.50

Property/Safety Signs 293 Plastic fence safety or property sign, printed on both sides with 6 predrilled holes for hanging or nailing. 7.5 x 4.75 inch. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.09 38 $79.42

Gate, Game, 8 ft. High X 4 ft. Wide 1082 4 Foot wide game gate (8 feet tall). Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $262.53 1 $262.53

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 6000 $6,000.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #64 - Tree/Shrub Regeneration Area with Protection

Scenario Description:

Naturally regenerate a forest stand using properly timed even-aged overstory harvesting methods and necessary site preparation. When implemented with the guidance 

of a professional forester, such silvicultural activities result in well stocked stands representative of the natural community. Standard forestry measures are used to 

provide temporary protection for regenerating trees, to improve the likelihood of successful regeneration and achieve landowner objectives for future forest stand 

composition. Seedlings are protected by temporary 8' high fencing materials or poly netting, designed to be moved when regeneration is established. Clearing of brush 

and undesirable trees is not necessary. Resource concerns include: Degraded Plant Condition - Inadequate structure and composition, Undesirable plant productivity and 

health, and/or Inadequate wildlife & fish habitat; and/or Water Quality Degradation - Excessive sediment in surface waters.

Before Situation:

Forest stands lack the desired species composition and/or structure, and/or have been impacted by environmental stressors and are unhealthy. Wildlife habitat is 

inadequate. Forest conditions do not meet landowner objectives. Environmental conditions are limiting to natural forest regeneration and establishment, and temporary 

protection will be needed. Primary resource concerns are Degraded Plant Condition - Inadequate structure and composition and Inadequate wildlife & fish habitat.

After Situation:

Natural forest regeneration has been accomplished on 20 acres of forest land. Trees are successfully established and the forest exhibits the planned mix of diverse native 

tree species. The future forest will improve degraded plant condition, reduce soil erosion, establish wildlife habitat, and sequester carbon.

Feature Measure: Area of Treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,214.67

Scenario Cost/Unit: $560.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Wire, Woven, Wildlife, 96 in. 6 High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 96 inch - 330 foot roll. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $677.38 12 $8,128.56

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 13

12-14 ft.

Wood Post, Line/End 6 inch dia. X 12-14 ft., CCA Treated. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $37.02 30 $1,110.60

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 10 ft. 17 Steel Post, Studded 10 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.28 30 $368.40

Fence, Wire Assembly, Woven 35

Wire

Brace pins, twist sticks, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.15 3750 $562.50

Property/Safety Signs 293 Plastic fence safety or property sign, printed on both sides with 6 predrilled holes for hanging or nailing. 7.5 x 4.75 inch. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.09 38 $79.42

Gate, Game, 8 ft. High X 4 ft. Wide 1082 4 Foot wide game gate (8 feet tall). Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $262.53 1 $262.53

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

Scenario: #109 - Tree-Shrub Establishment - Small Acreage

Scenario Description:

Seedling (potted) to be planted for conservation purposes other than reforestation. Planting will be by hand. The resource setting is an area that historically was an upland 

forest. Resource concerns are degraded plant condition - undesirable productivity and health, and inadequate structure and composition; inadequate habitat for fish and 

wildlife.

Before Situation:

The native forest has been removed and the land is either row cropped, farmstead, or associated agricultural land. If any upland trees exist, they are poor quality or 

undesirable species. Terrain is gently to moderately sloping with soil erosion-sheet and rill occurring.

After Situation:

Typical treatment area can range from less than 1 acre to 5 acres; typical scenario based on 1 ac, 150 TPA. Potted/containerized hardwood seedlings are planted by hand. 

Post vegetation control should be evaluated and conducted, if necessary.

Feature Measure: Planted Seedling

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,849.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Trailer, flatbed, small 1505 Small flatbed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a pickup 

to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $10.46 3 $31.38

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 5 $62.55

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 35 $835.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 75 $584.25

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 75 $1,183.50
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #2 - Steel Tank

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed of galvanized steel with 1,200 gallon capacity that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or 

direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life 

of the installation. The watering facility will be placed on a gravel or compacted earthen base. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate 

supply of water for livestock and or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of 1,200 gallons constructed of galvinized steel is installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide 

adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and or direct drinking access and provides 

improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habit. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that 

meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a gravel or compacted earth foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are 

installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting 

precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring 

Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will 

cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,847.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 2 $114.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Tank, Galvanized Steel Livestock, 1068

> 300 - 1,000 gallon

Includes tank materials and float valve Gallons $1.17 1200 $1,404.00

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1.5 $24.78

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #3 - Rubber Tire Tank on Earth

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed using a rubber equipment tire with concrete plug with 1,200 gallon capacity placed on a gravel or compacted earth 

foundation that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable 

materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of 

inadequate supply of water for livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife during the entire year in the Northern Plains 

Region, where water is not available in sufficient quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of greater than 1,200 gallons constructed using a rubber equipment tire with concrete plug is installed on a gravel or 

compacted earth foundation with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality 

of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and or direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering 

facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a 

properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use 

Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water 

source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities 

where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,346.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 0.25 $57.89

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 1 $66.81

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 1 $57.42

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Tank, Tire, 10' diameter 287 Tire, includes material cost for tank and shipping. Labor and other 

appurtenance costs not included.

Each $1,079.54 1 $1,079.54

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1.5 $24.78

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #4 - Fiberglass Tank on Earth

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed using a fiberglass tank with 1,200 gallon capacity placed on a gravel or compacted earth foundation that stores 

adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life 

expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for 

livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife during the entire year in the Northern Plains 

Region, where water is not available in sufficient quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of greater than 1,200 gallons constructed using a fiberglass tank is installed on a gravel or compacted earth foundation with 

all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for 

storage and or direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved 

durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required 

plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or 

catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), 

Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from 

the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,569.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 3 $200.43

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 3 $172.26

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1.5 $24.78

Tank, Fiberglass, 10' diameter by 2526

2' height

Fiberglass stockwater tank, includes material cost for tank and shipping. 

Labor and other appurtenance costs not included.

Each $1,539.23 1 $1,539.23

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #5 - Rubber Tire Tank on Concrete

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed using a rubber equipment tire with concrete plug with 1,200 gallon capacity placed on a concrete foundation that 

stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that 

have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of 

water for livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of greater than 1,200 gallons constructed using a rubber equipment tire with concrete plug is installed on a concrete 

foundation with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for 

livestock or wildlife for storage and or direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are 

constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly 

prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical 

Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source 

installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where 

animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,129.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 0.25 $57.89

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 1.5 $791.16

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 1 $66.81

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 1 $57.42

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 0.8 $16.35

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Tank, Tire, 10' diameter 287 Tire, includes material cost for tank and shipping. Labor and other 

appurtenance costs not included.

Each $1,079.54 1 $1,079.54

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.882 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #6 - Fiberglass Tank on Concrete

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed using a fiberglass tank with 1,200 gallon capacity placed on a concrete foundation that stores adequate quantity 

and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that 

meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock, habitat 

degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of greater than 1,200 gallons constructed using a fiberglass tank is installed on a concrete foundation with all tank materials, 

tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and or 

direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable 

materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required 

plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or 

catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), 

Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from 

the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,352.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 1.5 $791.16

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 3 $200.43

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 3 $172.26

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 0.8 $16.35

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Tank, Fiberglass, 10' diameter by 2526

2' height

Fiberglass stockwater tank, includes material cost for tank and shipping. 

Labor and other appurtenance costs not included.

Each $1,539.23 1 $1,539.23

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #7 - Steel Rim Tank - Bottomless

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed of a 30' diameter galvanized steel rim with impermeable membrane or bentonite treated earthen bottom with 

10,500 gallons of capacity that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from 

approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will address the resource 

concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility constructed of a galvanized steel rim with impermeable membrane or bentonite treated earthen bottom with a capacity of 10,500 gallons is 

installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock 

or wildlife for storage and or direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed 

from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation 

with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All 

collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water 

Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or 

overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns must be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 10,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,657.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 3 $200.43

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 3 $172.26

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Bentonite 41 Bentonite, includes materials (50# bag) Each $36.55 6 $219.30

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 19.7 $402.67

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Poly film, 6 mil. 245 6 mil, polyethylene, black Square Feet $0.09 1414 $127.26

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 30 $52.80

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Tank, Galvanized Steel 1070

Bottomless Livestock, > 6,000 

gallon

Includes tank materials, shipping, and float valve, no liner Gallons $0.31 10500 $3,255.00

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.882 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #8 - Steel Rim Tank - Concrete Base

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed of a 20' diameter galvanized steel rim set in a reinforced concrete base with 4,700 gallons of capacity that stores 

adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life 

expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for 

livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility constructed of a galvanized steel rim set in a reinforced concrete base with a capacity of 10,500 gallons is installed with all tank materials, 

tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and or 

direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable 

materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required 

plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or 

catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), 

Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from 

the watering facility will cause resource concerns must be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 4,700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,962.43

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 11.2 $5,907.33

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 10 $574.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 14 $435.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 8.4 $171.70

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 2 $152.40

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 60 $105.60

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Tank, Galvanized Steel 1069

Bottomless Livestock, <= 6,000 

gallon

Includes tank materials, shipping, and float valve, no liner Gallons $0.45 4700 $2,115.00
Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #9 - Water Fountain

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility consisting of a commercially available water fountain for livestock set on a concrete base to be installed with all tank materials, and 

plumbing, to provide adequate water supply capacity to ensure an adequate quality of water for livestock and direct drinking access and provide improved plant 

productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or 

exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock 

Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by 

using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock 

Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be 

protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility consisting of a commercially available water fountain for livestock set on a concrete base is installed with tank plumbing to to ensure an 

adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All 

watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed 

on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will 

use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water 

source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities 

where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as 

appropriate.

Feature Measure: Number of Tanks Installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,171.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,171.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 1.6 $843.90

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 2 $114.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 0.8 $16.35

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Tank, Freeze Proof, 4 hole 281 Tank, Freeze Proof with 4 drinking holes. Includes materials and 

shipping.

Each $1,154.50 1 $1,154.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #10 - Precast Concrete Tank

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of 500 gallons constructed of PreCast Concrete is installed with all tank materials, plumbing and float valve, to provide 

adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock for storage and or direct drinking access and provide improved plant 

productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or 

exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock 

Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by 

using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock 

Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be 

protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be 

improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with a capacity of 500 gallons is constructed of PreCast concrete, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity 

to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and or direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, 

water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life 

of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed 

vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting 

Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as 

appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using 

Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,119.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 1 $66.81

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 1 $57.42

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 20 $35.20

Tank, Concrete, 500 gallon 1049 Concrete tank for water storage, with riser and lid. Includes materials 

and delivery

Each $1,013.88 1 $1,013.88

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 0.9 $14.87

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #11 - Insulated Tank with Cover

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock constructed using a rubber equipment tire with concrete plug or fiberglass tank with 1,200 gallon capacity placed on a gravel or 

compacted earth foundation that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. This scenario includes an insulated cover for the 

watering facility. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of 

the installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable 

plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be improved. 

After Situation:

A permanent insulated watering facility with a capacity of greater than 1,200 gallons constructed using a rubber equipment tire with concrete plug or fiberglass tank is 

installed on a gravel or compacted earth foundation to provide livestock water year-round with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate 

water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and or direct drinking access and provides improved plant 

productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or 

exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock 

Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by 

using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock 

Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be 

protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate. 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,369.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 4 $229.68

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 10 $311.40

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 20 $35.20

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 3 $40.83

Tank, Fiberglass Cover 1076 Includes materials and shipping only. Square Feet $25.20 78.5 $1,978.20

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1.5 $24.78

Tank, Fiberglass, 10' diameter by 2526

2' height

Fiberglass stockwater tank, includes material cost for tank and shipping. 

Labor and other appurtenance costs not included.

Each $1,539.23 1 $1,539.23

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #12 - Enclosed Storage Tank

Scenario Description:

A permanent below ground storage facility to provide water for a watering facility for livestock, wildlife and/or other conservation practices. All water storage facilities will 

be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. This watering facility will 

address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock and or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife; where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations; and habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be improved.

After Situation:

A permanent water storage facility using a below ground concrete tank is installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water 

storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock, wildlife or other conservation practices for storage and/or direct drinking access and 

provides improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All water storage facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life 

expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines 

are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting 

precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring 

Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will 

cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 5,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,076.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 4 $585.52

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 1.3 $27.96

Tank, Concrete, 2500 gallon 1055 Concrete tank for water storage, with riser and lid. Includes materials 

and delivery.

Each $3,583.62 2 $7,167.24

Tank, Float Valve Assembly 1077 Float Valve, Stem, Swivel, Float Ball Each $102.79 1 $102.79
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #57 - Above ground poly storage tank 1000 - 3000 gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility constructed of approved materials having 1,000 to 3,000 gallons of water storage capacity for an adequate quantity and quality of water in 

situations where a lower capacity water supply source such as a spring or solar pump is the only feasible water source and backup capacity is needed during peak water 

demand periods. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the 

installation. Payment includes materials and labor costs for installing the storage tank. A stabilized area under and around the watering facility is not included and must be 

addressed through an associated practice of Heavy Use Area Protection (561). This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for 

livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, or plant productivity and health needs to be improved.

After Situation:

to ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife. Installation facilitates improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All 

watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed 

on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use 

Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water 

source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where 

animal concentrations will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Number of tanks

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,273.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,273.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Poly Enclosed Storage, 1075

>1,000

Water storage tanks. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $1.22 2500 $3,050.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 13 $30.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #58 - Permanent Drinking or Storage Capacity from 500 to 1000 Gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with 500 to 1,000 

gallons of capacity that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or direct drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable 

materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of 

inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for a watering facility for livestock or wildlife, where there is a source of water that is adequate in quantity and 

quality for the purpose, and where soils and topography are suitable for a facility to provide controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife to provide daily 

water requirements, improve animal distribution to better utilize grazing resources, provide a water source that is an alternative to a sensitive 

resource. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with a capacity of 500 

to 1,000 gallons of capacity, installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or direct 

drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the 

installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and 

undesirable plant productivity and health. The watering facility is placed on a properly prepared foundation with all required materials, plumbing and vegetation for 

stabilizing disturbed areas. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by 

using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock 

Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be 

protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate. All fencing will use Fence 

(382). 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 750.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,864.81

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2 $4.86

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 6 $400.86

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Galvanized Steel Livestock, 1068

> 300 - 1,000 gallon

Includes tank materials and float valve Gallons $1.17 750 $877.50

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 2 $33.04

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.881 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #142 - Permanent Drinking or Storage, Capacity less than 500 Gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with less than 500 

gallons of capacity that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or direct drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable 

materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of 

inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for a watering facility for livestock or wildlife, where there is a source of water that is adequate in quantity and 

quality for the purpose, and where soils and topography are suitable for a facility to provide controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife to provide daily 

water requirements, improve animal distribution to better utilize grazing resources, provide a water source that is an alternative to a sensitive 

resource. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with less than 500 

gallons of capacity, installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or direct drinking access. 

The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The 

watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant 

productivity and health. The watering facility is placed on a properly prepared foundation with all required materials, plumbing and vegetation for stabilizing disturbed 

areas. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting 

Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as 

appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using 

Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate. All fencing will use Fence (382). 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 250.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,580.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 0.5 $1.22

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Galvanized Steel Livestock, 1067

>75 - 300 gallon

Includes tank materials and float valve Gallons $1.61 250 $402.50

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 0.5 $8.26

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #143 - Tire Trough

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility for livestock and/or wildlife constructed from tires that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and/or direct drinking 

access. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the 

installation. This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock and/or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and 

undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before Situation:

There is insufficient water to meet livestock or wildlife watering needs at a site. Animals may have access to streams or ponds, need to travel a long distance to available 

water or pasture use and rotation may be affected. This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and/or 

wildlife where water is not available in sufficient quantities at specific locations; and where habitat, water quality, plant productivity and health needs to be improved. 

Resource concerns include, but may not be limited to, Plant Condition and Quality, Soil Erosion and Stream Habitat/Water Quality.

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility using a 10' diameter tire is installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, to provide adequate water storage capacity to 

ensure an adequate supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife for storage and/or direct drinking access and provides improved plant productivity and health, 

water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful 

life of the installation and placed on a properly prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). Any needed 

vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting 

Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as 

appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be protected by using 

Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 981.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,759.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 0.7 $162.08

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 6 $400.86

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 13 $310.44

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 7 $217.98

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Freeze Proof Hydrant, <= 3 ft. bury 240 Freeze Proof Hydrant, 3 foot or less bury. Materials only. Each $160.26 1 $160.26

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Tire, 10' diameter 287 Tire, includes material cost for tank and shipping. Labor and other 

appurtenance costs not included.

Each $1,079.54 1 $1,079.54

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 24 $42.24

Post, Wood, CCA Treated, 4-5 in. 1050

X 7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 4-5 inch dia. X 7 feet, CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $13.61 2 $27.22

Tank, Float Valve Assembly 1077 Float Valve, Stem, Swivel, Float Ball Each $102.79 1 $102.79

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1.7 $28.08
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #144 - Permanent Drinking or Storage, Capacity greater than 1000 to 5000 Gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with greater than 

1,000 to 5,000 gallons of capacity that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or direct drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from 

approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource 

concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for a watering facility for livestock or wildlife, where there is a source of water that is adequate in quantity and 

quality for the purpose, and where soils and topography are suitable for a facility to provide controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife to provide daily 

water requirements, improve animal distribution to better utilize grazing resources, provide a water source that is an alternative to a sensitive 

resource. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with a capacity of 

greater than 1,000 to 5,000 gallons of capacity, installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for 

storage or direct drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned 

useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water 

quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health. The watering facility is placed on a properly prepared foundation with all required materials, plumbing and 

vegetation for stabilizing disturbed areas. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be 

addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or 

Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns 

will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate. All fencing will use Fence 

(382). 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,470.67

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 4 $2,109.76

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 4 $9.72

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 9 $214.92

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 7 $143.08

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Galvanized Steel 1069

Bottomless Livestock, <= 6,000 

gallon

Includes tank materials, shipping, and float valve, no liner Gallons $0.45 2000 $900.00
Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #145 - Permanent Drinking or Storage, Capacity greater than 5000 Gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with greater than 

5,000 gallons of capacity that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or direct drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from approved 

durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of 

inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and 

health. 

 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for a watering facility for livestock or wildlife, where there is a source of water that is adequate in quantity and 

quality for the purpose, and where soils and topography are suitable for a facility to provide controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife to provide daily 

water requirements, improve animal distribution to better utilize grazing resources, provide a water source that is an alternative to a sensitive 

resource. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility as a means for providing controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials with a capacity of 

greater than 5,000 gallons of capacity, installed with all tank materials, tank plumbing and float valve, that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage or 

direct drinking access. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life 

of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and 

undesirable plant productivity and health. The watering facility is placed on a properly prepared foundation with all required materials, plumbing and vegetation for 

stabilizing disturbed areas. All needed pipelines are installed using Livestock Pipeline (516). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by 

using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Livestock 

Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations or overflow from the watering facility will cause resource concerns will be 

protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate. All fencing will use Fence 

(382). 

Feature Measure: Capacity in Gallons

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 10,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,719.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 7 $3,692.08

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 13 $31.59

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 12 $801.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 12 $307.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 13 $310.44

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 12 $373.68

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 13 $265.72

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20
Tank, Galvanized Steel 1070

Bottomless Livestock, > 6,000 

gallon

Includes tank materials, shipping, and float valve, no liner Gallons $0.31 10000 $3,100.00

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #146 - Water Ramp, Rock on Geotextile

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility-water ramp as a means for providing drinking water by storing or providing controlled access for livestock or wildlife constructed of 

approved materials consisting of rock and or gravel surfacing on geotextile fabric foundation. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable materials 

that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility includes all materials, equipment, labor and needed 

vegatation of disturbed areas to install the surfacing material and will address the resource concerns of inadequate water, soil erosion, water quality degradation and 

undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for a watering facility for livestock or wildlife, where there is a source of water that is adequate in quantity and 

quality for the purpose, and where soils and topography are suitable for a facility to provide controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife to provide daily 

water requirements, improve animal distribution to better utilize grazing resources, provide a water source that is an alternative to a sensitive resource. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility-water ramp as a means for providing drinking water by storing or providing controlled access for livestock or wildlife constructed of 

approved materials consisting of 640 square feet of rock and or gravel surfacing on 84 square yards of geotextile fabric foundation for livestock or wildlife constructed of 

approved materials for providing controlled access to drinking water. The watering facility will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy 

that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or 

wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health. The watering facility includes all materials, equipment, and labor to install the 

surfacing material and any needed vegetation for stabilizing disturbed areas. Any needed water source installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring 

Development (574), Pond (378), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. All fencing will use Fence (382). 

Feature Measure: Area of Ramp

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,164.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 24 $58.32

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 12 $10.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 12 $198.24

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 84 $163.80

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #147 - Water Ramp, Rock in GeoCell on Geotextile

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility-water ramp as a means for providing drinking water by storing or providing controlled access for livestock or wildlife constructed of 

approved materials consisting of rock and or gravel surfacing in cellar containment grid place on geotextile fabric foundation. The watering facility will be constructed from 

approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility includes all materials, 

equipment, labor, and needed vegatation of disturbed areas to install the surfacing material and will address the resource concerns of inadequate water, soil erosion, 

water quality degradation and undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for a watering facility for livestock or wildlife, where there is a source of water that is adequate in quantity and 

quality for the purpose, and where soils and topography are suitable for a facility to provide controlled access to drinking water for livestock or wildlife to provide daily 

water requirements, improve animal distribution to better utilize grazing resources, provide a water source that is an alternative to a sensitive resource. 

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility-water ramp as a means for providing drinking water by storing or providing controlled access for livestock or wildlife constructed of 

approved materials consisting of 640 square feet of rock and or gravel surfacing in 72 square yards of 4 inch cellar containment grid on 84 square yards of geotextile fabric 

foundation for livestock or wildlife constructed of approved materials for providing controlled access to drinking water. The watering facility will be constructed from 

approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. The watering facility will address the resource 

concerns of inadequate supply of water for livestock or wildlife, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health. The watering facility 

includes all materials, equipment, and labor to install the surfacing material and any needed vegetation for stabilizing disturbed areas. Any needed water source 

installation will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), Pond (378), or Livestock Pipeline (516) as appropriate. All fencing will use Fence 

(382). 

Feature Measure: Area of Ramp

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,718.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 24 $58.32

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 12 $10.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Materials

GeoCell, 4 inch 1054 4-inch thick cellular confinement system, three-dimensional, 

expandable panels made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), 

polyester or another polymer material. Includes materials, labor and 

equipment for the geocell only, does not include backfill

Square Yard $20.92 72 $1,506.24

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 12 $198.24

Geotextile, non-woven, heavy 1210

weight

Non-woven greater than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.95 84 $163.80

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 0.01 $1.35

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #148 - Above ground poly storage tank <300 gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility constructed of approved materials having <300 gallons of water storage capacity for an adequate quantity and quality of water in situations 

where a lower capacity water supply source such as a spring or solar pump is the only feasible water source and backup capacity is needed during peak water demand 

periods. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the 

installation. Payment includes materials and labor costs for installing the storage tank. A stabilized area under and around the watering facility is not included and must be 

addressed through an associated practice of Heavy Use Area Protection (561). This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for 

livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, or plant productivity and health needs to be improved.

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with water storage capacity of <300 gallons is typically installed to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate supply 

and quality of water for livestock or wildlife. Installation facilitates improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are 

constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly 

prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area 

Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation 

will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations 

will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: number of Tanks

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,582.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,582.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Poly Enclosed Storage, <= 1073

300 gallon

Water storage tanks. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $2.18 160 $348.80

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 13 $30.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 614 - Watering Facility

Scenario: #149 - Above ground poly storage tank 300 - 1000 gallons

Scenario Description:

A permanent watering facility constructed of approved materials having 300 to 1,000 gallons of water storage capacity for an adequate quantity and quality of water in 

situations where a lower capacity water supply source such as a spring or solar pump is the only feasible water source and backup capacity is needed during peak water 

demand periods. All watering facilities will be constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the 

installation. Payment includes materials and labor costs for installing the storage tank. A stabilized area under and around the watering facility is not included and must be 

addressed through an associated practice of Heavy Use Area Protection (561). This watering facility will address the resource concerns of inadequate supply of water for 

livestock, habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before Situation:

This practice applies to all land uses where there is a need for new or improved watering facilities for livestock and or wildlife, where water is not available in sufficient 

quantities at specific locations, and habitat, water quality, or plant productivity and health needs to be improved.

After Situation:

A permanent watering facility with water storage capacity of 300 to 1,000 gallons is typically installed to provide adequate water storage capacity to ensure an adequate 

supply and quality of water for livestock or wildlife. Installation facilitates improved plant productivity and health, water quality, and habitat. All watering facilities are 

constructed from approved durable materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation and placed on a properly 

prepared foundation with required plumbing. All needed pipelines are installed using Pipeline (516). Any needed vegetation of disturbed areas will use Critical Area 

Planting (342). All collectors or catchments for collecting precipitation will be addressed by using Water Harvesting Catchment (636). Any needed water source installation 

will use Water Well (642), Pumping Plant (533), Spring Development (574), or Pipeline (516) as appropriate. Areas around watering facilities where animal concentrations 

will cause resource concerns will be protected by using Heavy Use Area Protection (561) as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Number of tanks

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,197.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,197.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 1 $76.20

Tank, Poly enclosed Storage, 300- 1074

1000 gal

Water storage tanks. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $1.68 580 $974.40

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 13 $30.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #1 - PVC or DW 2 to 3 Inlets

Scenario Description:

Install 300 feet of 6' & 8' PVC or Dual Wall HDPE to convey stormwater from other conservation practices. Typical scenario is an underground outlet to serve 3 terraces 

spaced at 125'. 250' of pipe will be 6' with 100' of 8' to reach a suitable outlet. Pipe will be placed in a trench 48' deep and 12' wide. Costs include 6' & 8' PVC pipe, 8' 

Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, 

diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Terraces are being installed to address excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other 

locations. An undergound outlet is the best alternative for a stable outlet for the terrace system.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' and runoff controlled by the terrace system is released at a stable outlet. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 

412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,980.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 300 $414.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 1 $99.14

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 2 $308.46

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 115.5 $239.09

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 708 $1,677.96
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #2 - PVC or DW 4 to 5 Inlets

Scenario Description:

Install 550 feet of 6', 8', & 10' PVC or Dual Wall HDPE to convey stormwater from other conservation practices. Typical scenario is an underground outlet to serve 5 

terraces spaced at 125'. 250 of pipe will be 6', 250' will be 8', and 50' will be 10' to reach a suitable outlet. Pipe will be placed in a trench 48' deep and 12' wide. Costs 

include 6', 8', & 10' PVC pipe, 2 - 6', and 3 - 8', Perforated PVC Riser Inlets, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often 

installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Terraces are being installed to address excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other 

locations. An undergound outlet is the best alternative for a stable outlet for the terrace system.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' and runoff controlled by the terrace system is released at a stable outlet. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 

412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 550.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,201.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 550 $759.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 2 $198.28

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 3 $462.69

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 141 $291.87

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1752 $4,152.24
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #3 - PVC or DW 6+ Inlets

Scenario Description:

Install 800 feet of 6', 8', 10', & 15' PVC or Dual Wall HDPE to convey stormwater from other conservation practices. Typical scenario is an underground outlet to serve 7 

terraces spaced at 125'. 250 of pipe will be 6', 250' will be 8', 250' will be 10 ', and 50' will be 15' to reach a suitable outlet. Pipe will be placed in a trench 48' deep and 

12' - 24' wide. Costs include 6', 8', 10', & 15' PVC pipe, 2 - 6', 3 - 8', and 2 10' Perforated PVC Riser Inlets, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent 

guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Terraces are being installed to address excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other 

locations. An undergound outlet is the best alternative for a stable outlet for the terrace system.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' and runoff controlled by the terrace system is released at a stable outlet. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 

412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,342.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 500 $690.00

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 300 $885.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 2 $198.28

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 3 $462.69

Inlet, riser, 10 in. 1263 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 10 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $208.47 2 $416.94

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 188 $389.16

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1420 $3,365.40

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1587

wall, LTE-12 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe LTE-12 inch diameter. Materials only.

Pound $3.20 659 $2,108.80

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 160.8 $393.96
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #4 - 4 inch - 6 inch PVC or DW Pipe, Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 400 feet of 4' & 6' approved plastic pipe (PVC or Dual Wall HDPE) to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in high pressure flow 

conditions, situations needing greater capacity or where rodent damage may be a concern. Trench excavation is 48' deep and 12' wide for 4' pipe, and 18-24' wide for 6' 

pipe. Costs include 6' PVC pipe, 6' Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in 

conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,188.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 6 $36.18

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 400 $552.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 2 $198.28

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 682 $1,616.34

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #5 - Corrugated Wall 1 - 4 inlets

Scenario Description:

Install 425 feet of 6' Single Wall Corrugate Plastic Tubing to convey stormwater from other conservation practices. Typical scenario is an underground outlet to serve 4 

terraces spaced at 125'. 125' of pipe will be 6' SW CPT for top two terraces with 300' of 8' DW CPT for bottom two terraces and to reach a suitable outlet. Pipe will be 

placed in a trench 48' deep and 12' wide. Costs include pipe, 2 -6' & 2 - 8' Perforated PVC Riser Inlets, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent 

guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Terraces are being installed to address excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other 

locations. An undergound outlet is the best alternative for a stable outlet for the terrace system.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' and runoff controlled by the terrace system is released at a stable outlet. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 

412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 425.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,796.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 425 $586.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 2 $198.28

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 2 $308.46

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 115.5 $239.09

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 382.5 $826.20

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 95 $205.20
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #6 - 6 inch or smaller Single Wall PE Pipe(non-perf or perf), Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 400 feet of 4' & 6' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in non-pressure flow conditions. Trench excavation 

is 48' deep and 12' wide. Costs include 4' and 6' HDPE corrugated single wall plastic tubing, 6' Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench 

backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,040.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 6 $36.18

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 400 $552.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 2 $198.28

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 65 $140.40

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 152 $328.32

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #7 - 8 inch - 10 inch PVC or DW Pipe, Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 400 feet of 8' and 10' approved plastic pipe (PVC or Dual Wall HDPE) to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in non-pressure flow 

conditions and when multiple practices drain into it. Trench Excavation is 48' deep and 24' wide. Typical costs include 8' and 10' PVC pipe, 10' riser inlet , labor to install 

pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or 

simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,965.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 10 $60.30

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 400 $1,180.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 2 $308.46

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 200 $474.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 2176 $5,157.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #8 - Corrugated Wall 3 - 4 inlets

Scenario Description:

Install 175 feet of 6' Single Wall Corrugate Plastic Tubing to convey stormwater from other conservation practices. Typical scenario is an underground outlet to serve 2 

terraces spaced at 125'. 125' of pipe will be 6' SW CPT with 50' of 8' DW CPT to reach a suitable outlet. Pipe will be placed in a trench 48' deep and 12' wide. Costs include 

pipe, 2 - 6' Perforated PVC Riser Inlets, 1 - 8' perforated riser inlet, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed 

in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Terraces are being installed to address excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other 

locations. An undergound outlet is the best alternative for a stable outlet for the terrace system.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' and runoff controlled by the terrace system is released at a stable outlet. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 

412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of pipe Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 175.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,207.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 175 $241.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 6 in. 1261 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 6 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $99.14 2 $198.28

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 115.5 $239.09

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 133 $287.28
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #9 - 12 inch - 18 inch PVC or DW Pipe, Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 400 feet of 12' and 18' approved plastic pipe (PVC or Dual Wall HDPE) to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in non-pressure flow 

conditions and when multiple practices drain into it. Trench Excavation is 58' deep and 28' wide. Costs include 12' and 18' HDPE pipe, 10' Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, labor 

to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, 

waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,641.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $46.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 14 $84.42

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 400 $1,180.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Inlet, riser, 10 in. 1263 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 10 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $208.47 2 $416.94

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1900 $4,503.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. => 18 in., weight 1958

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe priced by the weight of the pipe materials 

for pipes with diameters equal to or greater than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.49 4286 $10,672.14

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #10 - 12 inch - 18 inch PVC or DW Pipe, Single-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 80 feet of 12' approved plastic pipe (PVC or Dual Wall HDPE) to convey storm water from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in pressure flow conditions and 

when draining single practices. Trench Excavation is 48' deep and 24' wide. Costs include 12' PVC pipe, 12' canopy or hooded inlet , labor to install pipe, trench 

excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or similar 

practices.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contaminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,917.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $48.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 7 $42.21

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 80 $236.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 760 $1,801.20

Hooded Inlet, 12 in. 1423 Hooded Inlet for 12 inch dia. pipe. Includes materials and labor for 

fabrication and installation.

Each $148.83 1 $148.83

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #11 - Over 18 inch PVC or DW Pipe, Single- or Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 60 feet of greater than 18' approved plastic (PVC or Dual Wall HDPE) or CMP pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in nonpressure flow conditions and when multiple practices drain into it. Trench Excavation is 58' deep and 28' wide. Costs include 24' HDPE dual wall pipe, 36' dual wall HDPE 

pipe riser inlet , labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment 

control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,901.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $65.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 35 $94.85

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 35 $54.25

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 780.2 $1,911.49

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #57 - 6 inch - 10 inch PVC or DW Pipe, Single-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Install 80 feet of 8' approved plastic pipe (PVC or Dual Wall HDPE) to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in pressure flow conditions and 

when draining single practices. Trench Excavation is 48' deep and 24' wide. Typical costs include 8' PVC pipe, 8' canopy or hooded inlet , labor to install pipe, trench 

excavation, trench backfill, and rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar 

practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,854.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $35.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 5 $30.15

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 80 $236.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 339.2 $803.90

Hooded Inlet, 8 in. 1421 Hooded Inlet for 8 inch dia. pipe. Includes materials and labor for 

fabrication and installation.

Each $94.73 1 $94.73

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #65 - 8 inch Single Wall PE with Riser

Scenario Description:

Install 400 feet of 8' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet in non-pressure flow conditions. Trench excavation is 48' 

deep and 24' wide. Costs include 8' HDPE corrugated single wall plastic tubing, 10' Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, labor to install pipe, trench excavation, trench backfill, and 

rodent guard. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices without causing erosion or 

flooding.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,501.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 400 $552.00

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Materials

Inlet, riser, 10 in. 1263 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 10 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $208.47 1 $208.47

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 77 $159.39

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 510 $1,101.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #70 - 8 inch Single Wall PE Pipe (non-perf or perf), Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Scenario is for the Installation of a 8' diameter approved plastic pipe to convey storm water from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Payment includes pipe, 

perforated PVC riser inlet, trench excavation, and trench backfill. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, 

waterways or similar practices.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations.

After Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion is controlled after UGO is installed in association with terraces or water and sediment control basin. Associated practices are 

Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,184.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 500 $1,475.00

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 2 $308.46

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 84.8 $200.98

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 612 $1,321.92

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #71 - 10 inch Single Wall PE Pipe (non-perf or perf), Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Scenario is for the Installation of a 10' diameter approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Payment includes pipe, 

perforated PVC riser inlet, trench excavation, and trench backfill. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, 

waterways or similar practices.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations.

After Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion is controlled after UGO is installed in association with terraces or water and sediment control basin. Associated practices are 

Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,446.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, clay, 24 in. x 48 55

in.

Trenching, earth, clay, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling and 

shoring/dewatering

Feet $3.46 500 $1,730.00

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Inlet, riser, 10 in. 1263 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 10 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $208.47 2 $416.94

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 132.8 $314.74

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 928.8 $2,006.21

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #72 - >=12 inch Single Wall PE Pipe (non-perf or perf), Multi-Inlet System

Scenario Description:

Scenario is for the Installation of a 12' diameter approved plastic pipe to convey storm water from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Payment includes pipe, 

perforated PVC riser inlet, trench excavation, and trench backfill. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, 

waterways or similar practices.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations.

After Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion is controlled after UGO is installed in association with terraces or water and sediment control basin. Associated practices are 

Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,193.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trenching, Earth, clay, 24 in. x 48 55

in.

Trenching, earth, clay, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling and 

shoring/dewatering

Feet $3.46 500 $1,730.00

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Inlet, riser, 12 in. 1264 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 12 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $651.27 2 $1,302.54

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 190 $450.30

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 1264.8 $2,731.97

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #147 - 6 inch or less pipe

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 6' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench is excavated 52' deep and 24' wide by hydraulic 

track excavator. Costs include 6' SDR-35 pipe, Precast concrete drop inlet with steel grate, trench excavation, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at 

outlet. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,211.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 170 $460.70

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 170 $263.50

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Catch Basin, concrete, 2 ft.x 2 ft. x 1257

6 ft.

Catch Basin, Precast Concrete, 2 ft. square or round, cast grate, 6 ft. 

deep. Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Each $905.39 1 $905.39

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1180 $2,796.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #148 - 6 inch or less, Riser

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 6' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench is excavated approximately 54'' deep and 15' 

wide by trencher. Costs include 6' HDPE corrugated single wall plastic tubing, 8' Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, trench excavation, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up 

stone headwall at outlet. This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,248.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 105 $284.55

Trencher, wheel type 1259 Wheel type Trencher, typically 350 HP with 6 foot max depth. 

Equipment only.

Hours $178.73 5 $893.65

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 2 $308.46

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated single 1380

wall, <= 12 in. weight priced 

Compound

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into single 

wall corrugated pipe or tubing. Materials only.

Pound $2.16 380 $820.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #149 - 12 inch or less

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 10' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench Excavation is 58' deep and 28' wide. Costs 

include 10' HDPE pipe, Precast concrete drop inlet with steel grate, trench excavation, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at outlet. This practice is 

often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,381.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 210 $569.10

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 210 $325.50

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Catch Basin, concrete, 2 ft.x 2 ft. x 1257

6 ft.

Catch Basin, Precast Concrete, 2 ft. square or round, cast grate, 6 ft. 

deep. Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Each $905.39 1 $905.39

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1587

wall, LTE-12 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe LTE-12 inch diameter. Materials only.

Pound $3.20 1155 $3,696.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #150 - 12 inch or less, riser

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 10' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench Excavation is 58' deep and 28' wide. Costs 

include 10' HDPE pipe, 12' Perforated PVC Riser Inlet, trench excavation, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at outlet. This practice is often installed 

in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,617.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 210 $569.10

Trencher, wheel type 1259 Wheel type Trencher, typically 350 HP with 6 foot max depth. 

Equipment only.

Hours $178.73 5 $893.65

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Inlet, riser, 10 in. 1263 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 10 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $208.47 2 $416.94

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1587

wall, LTE-12 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe LTE-12 inch diameter. Materials only.

Pound $3.20 1155 $3,696.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #151 - 18 inch or less

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 18' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench excavation is 66' deep x 39' wide. Costs 

include 18' HDPE pipe, Precast concrete drop inlet with steel grate, trench excavation, bedding material, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at outlet. 

This practice is often is installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,364.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $26.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 330 $894.30

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 330 $511.50

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 60 $1,290.60

Catch Basin, concrete, 2 ft.x 2 ft. x 1257

6 ft.

Catch Basin, Precast Concrete, 2 ft. square or round, cast grate, 6 ft. 

deep. Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Each $905.39 1 $905.39

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 3215 $7,876.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #152 - 24 inch or less

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 24' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench excavation is 72' x 48' wide. Costs include 24' 

HDPE pipe, Precast concrete drop inlet with steel grate, 24' HDPE pipe, trench excavation, bedding material, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at 

outlet. Practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $20,014.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $40.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 445 $1,205.95

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 445 $689.75

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 85 $1,828.35

Catch Basin, concrete, 2 ft.x 2 ft. x 1257

6 ft.

Catch Basin, Precast Concrete, 2 ft. square or round, cast grate, 6 ft. 

deep. Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Each $905.39 1 $905.39

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 5510 $13,499.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #153 - 30 inch or less

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 30' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench excavation is 78' deep x 56' wide. Costs 

include 30' HDPE pipe, Precast concrete drop inlet with steel grate, trench excavation, bedding material, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at outlet. 

This practices is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $27,218.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $54.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 565 $1,531.15

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 565 $875.75

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 105 $2,258.55

Catch Basin, concrete, 3 ft. x 3 ft. 1258

x 6 ft.

Catch Basin, Precast Concrete, 3 feet square or round, cast grate, 6 feet 

deep. Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Each $1,765.53 1 $1,765.53

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 7715 $18,901.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #154 - Greater than 30 inch

Scenario Description:

Install 500 feet of 36' approved plastic pipe to convey stormwater from one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench excavation is 84' deep x 64' wide. Costs 

include 36' HDPE pipe, Precast concrete drop inlet with steel grate, trench excavation, bedding material, trench backfill, rodent guard and laid up stone headwall at outlet. 

This practice is often installed in conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or simlar practices. 

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Length of Conduit

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $33,798.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $67.60

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 690 $1,869.90

Excavation, common earth, side 1227

cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and 

labor.

Cubic Yards $1.55 690 $1,069.50

Compaction, earthfill, vibratory 1260

plate

Compaction of earthfill with a walk behind vibratory plate compactor in 

typical 6-8 inch thick lifts, 2 passes. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.70 2 $5.40

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Rock Riprap, Placed with 44

geotextile

Rock Riprap, placed with geotextile. Includes materials, local delivery 

within 20 miles of quarry, and placement.

Cubic Yards $135.07 1 $135.07

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 135 $2,903.85

Catch Basin, concrete, 3 ft. x 3 ft. 1258

x 6 ft.

Catch Basin, Precast Concrete, 3 feet square or round, cast grate, 6 feet 

deep. Includes materials, equipment and labor.

Each $1,765.53 1 $1,765.53

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 9920 $24,304.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 620 - Underground Outlet

Scenario: #187 - Intake Riser and Short Offset Outlet

Scenario Description:

Install an 8 inch perforated riser and 20 feet of 6' PVC pipe as an offset to connect to an existing tile line that has adequate capacity. Practice will convey stormwater from 

one location to a suitable and stable outlet. Trench is excavated approximately 54' deep and 24' wide by a small backhoe. Costs include 6' PVC pipe, 8' Perforated PVC Riser 

Inlet, tee connection, trench excavation, and trench backfill. Not all, or different appurtenances may be required in some situations. This practice is often installed in 

conjunction with terraces, diversions, sediment control basins, waterways or similar practices.

Before Situation:

Excessive sedimentation and soil erosion as a result of gully, rill or sheet erosion which exceeds 'T' from farm fields and other locations. Also, roof runoff or surface runoff 

that becomes contaminated with agricultural wastes that significantly contributes to the amount of runoff that has to be stored or treated.

After Situation:

Field system meets 'T' or 'clean' storm water runoff is diverted away from an agricultural waste management system to minimize the volume of runoff that is 

contaminated by agricultural waste. Associated practices are Critical Area Planting (342), Grassed Waterway ( 412), Terrace (600), Diversion (342), Water and Sediment 

Control Basin (638), and Subsurface Drainage (606)

Feature Measure: Number of Risers

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,632.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $544.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 6 $612.84

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Materials

Inlet, riser, 8 in. 1262 Riser, polymer, complete vertical perforated UGO inlet with Tee, orifice 

plate if needed, 8 inch diameter. Materials only.

Each $154.23 3 $462.69

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 17 $63.07

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 629 - Waste Treatment

Scenario: #21 - Aerobic Circulator

Scenario Description:

Aerobic circulators are added to an existing lagoon or liquid storage pond with adequate minimum treatment volume (at least 270 days storage) and depth (at least 4.5 

feet) to circulate lagoon water in order to allow for oxygen interchange at the surface of the lagoon, creating aerobic conditions in the lagoon and reducing emissions of 

odors and other volatile gases. Associated practices: Waste Treatment Lagoon (359)

Before Situation:

The existing uncovered anaerobic lagoon or liquid storage pond results in emissions of odors, ammonia, methane, and other volatile gases.

After Situation:

One aerobic circulator is added to the existing lagoon or storage pond for each 100 animal units of manure input to the lagoon or storage pond, resulting in a conversion of 

the anaerobic liquid storage to an aerobic liquid storage and reducing emissions of odors and other volatile gases. The circulators are spaced at least 25 feet apart.

Feature Measure: Number of Animal Units Treated

Scenario Unit: Animal Unit

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $65,035.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $130.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Aerator or Circulator, Pond, Large 1709 Aerator or Circulator for pond or tank, 10 or more HP and/or 10 or more 

acres of surface area. Materials only

Each $12,928.50 5 $64,642.50
Practice: 632 - Waste Separation Facility

Scenario: #1 - Mechanical Separator

Scenario Description:

A small mechanical separation facility to partition solids, liquids, and/or associated nutrients from animal waste streams. The partitioning of the previously mentioned 

components facilitates the protection of air and water quality, protects animal health, and improves the management of an animal waste management system. 

Mechanical separators may include, but are not limited to: static inclined screens , vibratory screens, rotating screens, centrifuges, screw or roller presses, or other 

systems. Associated practices include Nutrient Management (590), Composting Facility (317), Anaerobic Digester (366), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling 

(633), Waste Transfer (634), Amendments for the Treatment of Agricultural Waste (591), Pumping Plant (533), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), Pond Lining or Sealing 

(521A-D), and Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Applicable to situations where partitioning solids, liquids, and nutrients will facilitate the management of an animal waste management system, improve air quality 

(reduce odors), and address water quality concerns. 

After Situation:

One small mechanical separation facility (a screw press) installed at livestock facility before storage or treatment or after treatment, for example, after an anaerobic 

digester. Part of an animal waste management system. 

Feature Measure: Item

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $66,375.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $66,375.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 7.5 $3,955.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 3.7 $75.63

Vibratory or Rotating Screen 1948 Vibratory or Rotating Screen, includes materials, shipping and 

equipment.

Each $59,990.00 1 $59,990.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 632 - Waste Separation Facility

Scenario: #2 - Earthen Settling Structure with picket screen outlet

Scenario Description:

An earthen structure, such as a basin or a terrace or dike like structure, used to capture and separate a portion of the solids from a liquid stream from a feedlot or 

confinement facility. A concrete pad should be installed on the bottom of the basin and around outlet structures to facilitate cleanout. Removes as portion of the solids 

to facilitate waste handling and to address water quality concerns. Associated practices include Nutrient Management (590), Composting Facility (317), Anaerobic 

Digester (366), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste Transfer (634), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), Pond Lining or Sealing (521A-D), and Waste 

Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Applicable to situations where partitioning solids, liquids, and nutrients will facilitate the management of an animal waste management system, improve air quality 

(reduce odors), and address water quality concerns. 

After Situation:

One earthen settling basin structure (60 ft wide by 200 ft long by 3 ft deep)(estimate 0.5' of freeboard above the design storage), with three screening outlet structures) 

constructed around or at a livestock feeding operation. Removes a portion of the solids that otherwise would leave with the runoff from an animal feeding operation. 

Part of an animal waste management system. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Foot of Design Storage

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 30,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,373.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 12 $6,329.28

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1000 $3,870.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 9.9 $202.36

Weeping Wall 1765 Weeping wall or picket screen structure for solid settling basin. 

Materials only.

Feet $38.76 24 $930.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 632 - Waste Separation Facility

Scenario: #3 - Earthen settling structure with pipe outlet

Scenario Description:

An earthen structure, such as a basin or a terrace or dike like structure, used to capture and separate a portion of the solids from a liquid stream from a feedlot or 

confinement facility. A concrete pad should be installed on the bottom of the basin and around outlet structures to facilitate cleanout. Removes as portion of the solids 

to facilitate waste handling and to address water quality concerns. Associated practices include Nutrient Management (590), Composting Facility (317), Anaerobic 

Digester (366), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste Transfer (634), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), Pond Lining or Sealing - Compacted Soil (520), 

Pond Sealing or Lining - Concrete (522), and Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Applicable to situations where partitioning solids, liquids, and nutrients will facilitate the management of an animal waste management system, improve air quality 

(reduce odors), and address water quality concerns. 

After Situation:

One earthen settling basin structure (60 ft wide by 200 ft long by 3 ft deep, with one screening outlet structure) (estimate 0.5' of freeboard above the design storage) 

constructed around or at a livestock feeding operation. Removes a portion of the solids that otherwise would leave with the runoff from an animal feeding operation. The 

suspended solids and liquid is transferred to a Waste Storage Facility (313) using a Waste Transfer (634) pipe. Part of an animal waste management system.

Feature Measure: Cubic Foot of Design Storage

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 30,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,199.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 3.3 $1,740.55

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1000 $3,870.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 4 $95.92

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1229

1/16 in

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1/16 inch grid spacing. Materials only. Square Feet $4.09 32 $130.88

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 37.3 $129.43

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 632 - Waste Separation Facility

Scenario: #4 - Concrete Settling Structure with pipe outlet

Scenario Description:

An earthen structure, such as a basin or a terrace or dike like structure, used to capture and separate a portion of the solids from a liquid stream from a feedlot or 

confinement facility. A concrete pad should be installed on the bottom of the basin and around outlet structures to facilitate cleanout. Removes as portion of the solids 

to facilitate waste handling and to address water quality concerns. Associated practices include Nutrient Management (590), Composting Facility (317), Anaerobic 

Digester (366), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste Transfer (634), Vegetated Treatment Area (635), Pond Sealing or Lining - Compacted Soil (520), 

Pond Sealing or Lining - Concrete (522), and Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Applicable to situations where partitioning solids, liquids, and nutrients will facilitate the management of an animal waste management system, improve air quality 

(reduce odors), and address water quality concerns. 

After Situation:

One earthen settling basin structure with a 30 ft wide by 200 ft long bottom area, 5 ft deep with 3:1 sideslopes. 4.0' depth is used for storage volume computation with 

1.0' freeboard. One screening outlet structure is constructed around or at a livestock feeding operation. Removes a portion of the solids that otherwise would leave with 

the runoff from an animal feeding operation. The suspended solids and liquid is transferred to a Waste Storage Facility (313) using a Waste Transfer (634) pipe. Part of an 

animal waste management system.

Feature Measure: Cubic Foot of Design Storage

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 35,800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $58,634.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 95.9 $50,581.50

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 1000 $3,870.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Materials

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 4 $95.92

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 74.1 $1,593.89

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1229

1/16 in

Wire Mesh Screen, galvanized, 1/16 inch grid spacing. Materials only. Square Feet $4.09 32 $130.88

Lumber, planks, posts and 1609

timbers, treated

Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $3.47 37.3 $129.43

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 632 - Waste Separation Facility

Scenario: #5 - Concrete Settling Structure with picket screen outlet

Scenario Description:

A concrete structure, such as a basin with concrete walls and floor, used to capture and separate a portion of the solids from a liquid stream from a feedlot or confinement 

facility. Removes as portion of the solids to facilitate waste handling and to address water quality concerns. Associated practices include Nutrient Management (590), 

Composting Facility (317), Anaerobic Digester (366), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste Transfer (634), Pumping Plant (533), Vegetated Treatment 

Area (635), Pond Lining or Sealing (521A-D), and Waste Treatment

Before Situation:

Applicable to situations where partitioning solids, liquids, and nutrients will facilitate the management of an animal waste management system, improve air quality 

(reduce odors), and address water quality concerns. 

After Situation:

One concrete settling basin structure (20 ft wide by 40 ft long with 6 ft high walls and weeping wall/picket structure or outlet control) constructed around or at a livestock 

feeding operation. Removes a portion of the solids that otherwise would leave with the runoff from an animal feeding operation. Part of an animal waste management 

system. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Foot of Design Storage

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,167.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 12.3 $6,487.51

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 14.8 $8,831.31

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 100 $243.00

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 50 $193.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 9.9 $212.95

Weeping Wall 1765 Weeping wall or picket screen structure for solid settling basin. 

Materials only.

Feet $38.76 20 $775.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 632 - Waste Separation Facility

Scenario: #6 - Concrete Sand Settling Lane

Scenario Description:

A concrete structure, a concrete lane with curbs, used to capture and separate a portion of the solids, mainly sand, from a liquid stream from a confinement facility. 

Removes as portion of the solids to facilitate waste handling and to address water quality concerns. Associated practices include Nutrient Management (590), 

Composting Facility (317), Anaerobic Digester (366), Waste Storage Facility (313), Waste Recycling (633), Waste Transfer (634), Pumping Plant (533), Vegetated Treatment 

Area (635), Pond Lining or Sealing (521A-D), and Waste Treatment (629).

Before Situation:

Applicable to situations where partitioning solids, liquids, and nutrients will facilitate the management of an animal waste management system, improve air quality 

(reduce odors), and address water quality concerns. 

After Situation:

One concrete settling lane structure (22 ft wide by 740 ft long by 5 in. thick) constructed around or at a livestock feeding operation. A 20' long opening in wall is allowed as 

an outlet for this lane. Removes a portion of the solids (sand) that otherwise would leave with the runoff from an animal feeding operation. Part of an animal waste 

management system. 

Feature Measure: Square Foot of Settling Lane Footpr

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 16,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $214,081.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 301.5 $159,023.16

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 72.1 $43,022.79

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 2412 $5,861.16

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 201 $4,323.51

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 633 - Waste Recycling

Scenario: #1 - Export Ag Waste By-products Recycled for Use Off Farm

Scenario Description:

Changes to the operation and farm have decreased total crop nutrient needs. By-products produced at the farm are accumulating in such a manner that the water, soil 

and/or air quality are potential resource concerns. The operation needs a temporary alternative to address the excess level of on-farm by-products while modifications 

are planned for the nutrient and/or waste management plans. Exporting by-products to area farmers can lower excess on-farm stockpiles, better distribute and recycle 

nutrients, and improve soil health. Associated practices: 313-Waste Storage Facility, 316-Mortality Facility, 317-Composting Facility, 590-Nutrient Management

Before Situation:

Unexpected loss of leased cropland by the operation; irrigation limitations, weather conditions have altered crop rotations and have decreased crop nutrient needs. 

Agricultural by-products are accumulating because less land application sites are available. Excessive by-products have the potential for nutrient runoff and leaching from 

the site and available cropland. Resource concerns, such as degradation of water quality, soil health and/or air quality, are valid. The original nutrient and waste 

management plans need to be updated, but the producer lacks the expertise to complete all the modifications.

After Situation:

The producer 'exports' excess by-products to area growers. Growers are invited to pick up the by-products for nutrient use on their farms. Prior to export, all by-products 

will be sampled and analyzed annually in accordance with LGU guidelines. Nutrients and characteristics to be analyzed for include Total N, Total Ammonium-N, Total 

Phosphorus, Total Potassium and percent moisture/dry content. Depending on the type of by-product, the analysis may also include heavy metals and pathogens. The 

farm documents all by-product exports, including the date(s) and quantities, the recipient's name, address and phone number. Each recipient will receive a copy of 

applicable nutrient analysis report. The farm has modified nutrient and waste management plans to account for nutrients of by-products being generated. Additional 

practices may be installed as needed. The farm may continue to export by-products if a demand exists.

Feature Measure: Farm

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $514.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $514.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Test, Manure Analysis 306 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $48.54 2 $97.08
Practice: 633 - Waste Recycling

Scenario: #2 - Import Non-Ag Waste By-products for On-Farm Use

Scenario Description:

Traditional bedding materials for free stall barns, monoslope barns and hoop buildings can be expensive and difficult to find. Non-agricultural by-products, such as 

shredded newspapers, shredded office paper, saw dust, wood shavings, gypsum, etc., are alternatives to standard bedding material. Farms seek to lower energy cost by 

reducing their use of transportation fuels and are interested in utilizing locally available material. By-products blended with manure are a good fertilizer source and soil 

amendment for cropland with poor soil health. Associated practices: 313-Waste Storage Facility, 317-Composting Facility, 590-Nutrient Management

Before Situation:

The livestock operation is spending more money to purchase bedding material that is limited in their area, increasing operational costs. Cropland associated with this 

operation has soil resource concern with poor soil health. The operator seeks to reduce the farm-associated transportation fuels. The farm is located near a newspaper 

recycling center that offers shredded and baled the paper. Shredded newspaper is highly absorbent and a comfortable bedding source for the cattle. The shredded 

newspaper does not benefit the land if applied directly on the land. The operation is not sure how to incorporate the by-product into their operation safely and what 

nutrients will be available after the manure mixes with the newspaper. The operation has considered composting, but does not know the best recipe to use for a compost 

mix, the time and temperatures required to break down the material, or the recommended rates of land application. 

After Situation:

Bedding material costs are lowered by use of locally produced, non-agricultural by-products. The blended mixture of newspaper and manure from the barns is stockpiled 

or composted at the farm. Prior to land application, it is sampled and analyzed for nutrient content in accordance with LGU guidelines. Nutrient and content analysis 

includes total nitrogen, total ammonium-N, total phosphorus, total potassium, and percent dry/moisture content (and as applicable, heavy metals and pathogens). Crop 

consultants will help determine application rates based on nutrient analysis. If composted, the product can also be recycled into bedding for the free stall barns. 

Recordkeeping documents the quantity of non-agricultural material received, ratio blended with manure solids (if not used as a bedding product). If composting, also 

document temperatures. Records are maintained of nutrient applications as part of their nutrient management plan.

Feature Measure: Cubic Foot

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $651.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 2 $119.64
Practice: 633 - Waste Recycling

Scenario: #3 - Import Non-Ag Waste By-products for Compost with Manure for On-farm Use

Scenario Description:

Area farmers are looking for sources of low cost soil amendments and nutrients for cropland with poor soil health. Dumping food waste (from restaurants, grocery stores, 

food manufacturers, and institutions such as hospitals, schools prisons), non-agricultural by-products (winery stalks/sludge and butcher shop waste) and municipal greens 

(grass clippling and leaves) into landfills can be costly and uses landfill space. Area livestock operations may be looking for ways to export solid manure or convert manure 

into a compost that can be easily transported. Composting food waste, non-agricultural products, municipal greens with manure and a carbon source can result in 

product that is benefical to cropland with poor soil health issues. Nutrient sampling, analysis and recordkeeping is required. Additional nutrients are accounted for in the 

nutrient management plan. Associated practices: 313-Waste Storage Facility, 317-Composting Facility, 590-Nutrient Management

Before Situation:

Area farmers have cropland with low soil health and limited economical means to improve soil health. A livestock operation may have excess manure available for export. 

A local grocery store has weekly food waste that they will transport to farm/AFO. AFOs/ farmers may be able to generate beneficial soil amendments by utilizing the nonagricultural by-products into an on-farm composting program. The AFO/ farm does not know the best recipe to use for a compost mix, the time and temperatures 

required to break down the material or recommended rate of land application. 

After Situation:

Farm receives non-agricutural by-products. Using manure and available carbon sources, the producer/farmer with the help of a consultant develops a composting system 

using the by-products. Guidance is provided on composting, such as carbon ratio, temperature, moisture, etc. The compost is sampled and tested according to LGU 

recommendations for nutrients / non-nutrients (Total N, Total Ammonium-N, Total Phosphorus, Total Potassium, and percent dry/moisture content, and, as applicable, 

heavy metals and pathogens). The compost is land-applied in accordance with the farm's waste management plan or exported to area farmers and used as a soil 

amendment and nutrient source. Recordkeeping includes the quantity of non-agricultural material received, amount of manure used in the compost, composting 

temperatures and times with the corresponding tested sample analysis. If the compost is exported, records include the date, amount and recipient of the compost, along 

with providing the recipient with a copy of the nutrient report.

Feature Measure: Cubic Foot

Scenario Unit: Cubic Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,087.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Test, Compost Analysis 307 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $59.82 4 $239.28
Practice: 633 - Waste Recycling

Scenario: #4 - Import Non-Agricultural By-Products, Land-Applied

Scenario Description:

The municipal green waste contains material such as lawn clippings and leaves. Communities form dump sites for green waste for its members. Farmers can combine 

municipal green waste with manure and apply the blended mixture to cropland to recycle nutrients and improve soil health. Nutrient sampling, analysis and recordkeeping 

is required. Additional nutrients are accounted for in the nutrient management plan. Associated practices: 590-Nutrient Management, (Temporary Field) Waste Storage

Before Situation:

A farm has soil resource concerns of several fields with poor soil health. The fields are located where a source of municipal green waste is available. The farmer is 

concerned about land-applying the green waste directly to the fields and contributing to soil compaction from equipment the municipality may use for spreading. The 

farmer wants to make sure the waste material is a nutrient benefit and existing soil quality conditions are protected before agreeing to recycle any imported green waste.

After Situation:

The farm imports the green waste material that has been chopped and screened for land application. The imported material is blended with manure and briefly stockpiled 

(away from surface water), for no more than 7 days while a blended sample is tested. The sample is analyzed for nutrient content (Total N, Total Ammonium-N, Total 

Phosphorus, Total Potassium, percent moisture/dry content) and any potential chemcials of concern. Based on results of the tested sample, and in consultation with an 

agronomist, the waste material is land-applied on the agricultural fields. Soil is protected from compaction by applying the blend in an appropiate manner. Records of the 

nutrient analysis and rate of land application in the field are maintained. The nutrient analysis information is used to adjust fertilizer application rates and to prevent crop 

nutrient tie-up resulting from increased carbon in the soil. The green waste recycling activity on the farm is documented and included in the nutrient management plan 

records.

Feature Measure: Ton

Scenario Unit: Ton

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $413.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Test, Manure Analysis 306 Moisture, Total N, P, K. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $48.54 2 $97.08
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #1 - Concrete Channel

Scenario Description:

Installation of a concrete channel that consists of a slab with curb and footing on each side of the slab for the entire length of the channel to enable the facility manager to 

direct liquid waste to an existing collection basin and/or waste storage facility. Water quality concerns will be addressed by preventing liquid waste from 

entering surface waters, and to facilitate timely land application of manure and wastewater at agronomic rates according to the CNMP. This scenario addresses the 

potential for surface water and groundwater quality degradation. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, 

Pumping Plant; PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste 

application; PS 633, Waste Recycling. 

Before Situation:

Current facility operations are allowing liquid waste to flow uncontrolled during periods of precipitation events or cleaning operations such that water resources can be 

contaminated.

After Situation:

Typical installation of a 12 foot wide 100' long concrete channel that consists of a 5' thick concrete slab with curbing on each side of the slab that is 2' high, 6' thick with 

footing for the entire length. The purpose is to transfer liquids or manure slurry from one area to an existing collection basin or waste storage facility. Includes safety 

chain for equipment. Alternative configurations can consist of the installation of a more narrow or wider channel that may or may not have curbs or a deeper shaped 

channel and may include a half pipe on the bottom.

Feature Measure: Bottom surface area of concrete ch

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $22,829.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 22 $11,603.68

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 11 $6,563.81

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 4 $10.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 26 $429.52

Safety gate, span manure transfer 1952

channel or chute

Safety gate to span manure transfer channel at push off wall or chute 

outlet. Minimum of 4 ft. tall with openings that will not pass a 6 inch or 

larger sphere. Includes materials only.

Feet $22.48 16 $359.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #2 - Gravity flow, less than or equal to 18 inch diameter conduit

Scenario Description:

Gravity flow conduit is typically a large diameter water tight sanitary sewer pipe used to transfer manure by gravity from one location to another. The gravity transfer 

system typically consists of an existing inlet structure or hopper with attachment to a smooth interior large diameter pipe. The pipe conveys the slurry waste liquid 

between the waste collection point and a manure storage or waste treatment structure. Adequate head on the pipe flow or change in elevation must be available for the 

gravity system to function and should be evaluated by the design engineer. This practice includes the pipe attachment to an existing inlet structure and all other fittings, 

trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. This conduit is part of a manure transfer system for a planned waste management or 

comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario addresses the transport of liquid waste to a waste storage or treatment facility to prevent a water quality 

resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water and/or excessive nutrients/organics in ground water. Associated 

practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation 

Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste Recycling. 

Before Situation:

An area of waste production is separated from the waste storage facility and current operations may cause water quality concerns as it is not efficient in transporting the 

waste to the storage. The site has a change in elevation between production area and treatment or storage structure that is adequate to provide sufficient head for a 

gravity flow conduit to transport the slurry waste liquid stream.

After Situation:

Install a 150 foot long 18' diameter water tight pipe to transfer manure by gravity from one location to another. A gravity transfer system typically consists of a sealed inlet 

at an existing waste collection structure to a smooth interior 18' sewer grade pipe that will gravity flow to an outlet at a site of manure treatment or storage. This scenario 

includes the pipe, inlet, outlet, couplers and all other fittings, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be evaluated by the designing engineer to 

make sure there is adequate elevation drop before contracting. If required an inlet structure may be contracted under another scenario. The transfer conduit will 

provide collection and containment of the manure slurry, thereby protecting water quality resources. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,987.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $33.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 97 $235.71

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 57 $343.71

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 45 $149.85

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 10 $204.40

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 964.5 $2,363.03

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #3 - Gravity flow, greater than 18 inch diameter conduit

Scenario Description:

Gravity flow conduit is typically a large diameter water tight sanitary sewer pipe used to transfer manure by gravity from one location to another. The gravity transfer 

system typically consists of an existing inlet structure or hopper with attachment to a smooth interior large diameter pipe. The pipe conveys the slurry waste liquid 

between the waste collection point and a manure storage or waste treatment structure. Adequate head on the pipe flow or change in elevation must be available for the 

gravity system to function and should be evaluated by the design engineer. This practice includes the pipe attachment to an existing inlet structure and all other fittings, 

trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. This conduit is part of a manure transfer system for a planned waste management or 

comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario addresses the transport of liquid waste to a waste storage or treatment facility to prevent a water quality 

resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water and/or excessive nutrients/organics in ground water. Associated 

practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation 

Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste Recycling. 

Before Situation:

An area of waste production is separated from the waste storage facility and current operations may cause water quality concerns as it is not efficient in transporting the 

waste to the storage. The site has a change in elevation between production area and treatment or storage structure that is adequate to provide sufficient head for a 

gravity flow conduit to transport the slurry waste liquid stream.

After Situation:

Install a 150 foot long 30' diameter water tight pipe to transfer manure by gravity from one location to another. A gravity transfer system typically consists of a sealed inlet 

at an existing waste collection structure to a smooth interior 30' sewer grade pipe that will gravity flow to an outlet at a site of manure treatment or storage. This scenario 

includes the pipe, inlet, outlet, couplers and all other fittings, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be evaluated by the designing engineer to 

make sure there is adequate elevation drop before contracting. If required an inlet structure may be contracted under another scenario. The transfer conduit will 

provide collection and containment of the manure slurry, thereby protecting water quality resources. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 150.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,424.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $56.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 125 $303.75

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 57 $343.71

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 45 $149.85

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 13 $265.72

Pipe, HDPE, corrugated double 1588

wall, GTE 15 in., soil tight, weight 

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into double 

wall corrugated pipe Greater Than or Equal to 15 inch diameter. 

Materials only.

Pound $2.45 2314.5 $5,670.53

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #4 - Pressure flow, less than or equal to 6 inch diameter conduit

Scenario Description:

Pressure flow pipeline used to transfer manure wastewater by pumping from the waste storage pond to the field where it is to be applied according to the CNMP. These 

pipelines may also be utilized to transfer waste within the waste treatment system. Pressure flow transfer pipelines can be between 3' and 12' diameter but 6' diameter is 

a commonly used pipe size. Pressure pipe will handle an internal pumping pressure between 130 and 200 psi depending on the designed pumping system and must have 

gasketted joints to seal for the wastewater transfer. The pressure pipe moves the water by pumping from the intake riser location, through a buried mainline with 

outlet risers spaced at 300 ft intervals for a traveler applicator. This practice includes the pipe plus an inlet riser structure, clean-out risers and outlet risers plus all other 

valves and fittings, trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, 

thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include 

flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. This pipeline is part of a manure transfer system for a 

planned waste management or comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario addresses the transport of liquid waste to a waste storage or treatment facility 

to prevent a water quality resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water and/or excessive nutrients/organics in 

ground water. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, 

Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste Recycling; PS 635, Vegetated 

Treatment Area. 

Before Situation:

The waste storage structure is separated from the application fields where wastewater nutrients are needed. Soil nutrients in the near fields have high phosphorus levels 

from over application near the waste storage facility. The current application operation is high in the use of time and energy and may cause water quality concerns as it is 

not efficient in transporting the waste to the field. 

After Situation:

Install a 1000 foot long 6 inch diameter PVC gasketted IPS pipe that has an SDR of 21 and is water tight under pressure flow to transfer the manure wastewater. An inlet 

riser and is located near the pump site of the waste storage pond and designed for the desired pressure and flow for the application system. This scenario includes the 

pipe, inlet riser, couplers, air-vac vents, all other fittings, and risers placed as specified by the design, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be 

evaluated by the designing engineer to make sure the design will function. The transfer pipeline will deliver the manure slurry to the fields for agronomic nutrient 

utilization according to the CNMP, thereby protecting water quality resources. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,277.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 90 $542.70

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 1000 $2,950.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 4422 $10,480.14

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #5 - Pressure flow, 8 inch diameter conduit

Scenario Description:

Pressure flow pipeline used to transfer manure wastewater by pumping from the waste storage pond to the field where it is to be applied according to the CNMP. These 

pipelines may also be utilized to transfer waste within the waste treatment system. Pressure flow transfer pipelines can be between 3' and 12' diameter but 8' diameter is 

a commonly used pipe size. Pressure pipe will handle an internal pumping pressure between 130 and 200 psi depending on the designed pumping system and must have 

gasketted joints to seal for the wastewater transfer. The pressure pipe moves the water by pumping from the intake riser location, through a buried mainline with 

outlet risers spaced at 300 ft intervals for a traveler applicator. This practice includes the pipe plus an inlet riser structure, clean-out risers and outlet risers plus all other 

valves and fittings, trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, 

thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include 

flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding requirements. This pipeline is part of a manure transfer system for a 

planned waste management or comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario addresses the transport of liquid waste to a waste storage or treatment facility 

to prevent a water quality resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water and/or excessive nutrients/organics in 

ground water. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, 

Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste Recycling; PS 635, Vegetated 

Treatment Area. 

Before Situation:

The waste storage structure is separated from the application fields where wastewater nutrients are needed. Soil nutrients in the near fields have high phosphorus levels 

from over application near the waste storage facility. The current application operation is high in the use of time and energy and may cause water quality concerns as it is 

not efficient in transporting the waste to the field. 

After Situation:

Install a 1000 foot long 8 inch diameter PVC gasketted IPS pipe that has an SDR of 21 and is water tight under pressure flow to transfer the manure wastewater. An inlet 

riser and is located near the pump site of the waste storage pond and designed for the desired pressure and flow for the application system. This scenario includes the 

pipe, inlet riser, couplers, air-vac vents, all other fittings, and risers placed as specified by the design, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be 

evaluated by the designing engineer to make sure the design will function. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,498.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $23.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 90 $542.70

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 1000 $2,950.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 7469 $17,701.53

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #6 - Pressure flow, 10 inch diameter conduit

Scenario Description:

PVC pipelines are used to transfer manure wastewater by a low pressure pump from the waste storage pond to the field where it is applied according to the CNMP. These 

pipelines may also be utilized to transfer waste within the waste treatment system. PVC transfer pipelines can be between 3' and 30' diameter. This practice includes the 

pipe plus an inlet riser structure, clean-out risers and outlet risers plus all other valves and fittings, trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. 

Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 

10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding 

requirements. This pipeline is part of a manure transfer system for a planned waste management or comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario addresses 

the transport of liquid waste to prevent a water quality resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water and/or 

excessive nutrients/organics in ground water. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, 

Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste 

Recycling; PS 635, Vegetated Treatment Area. 

Before Situation:

The waste storage structure is separated from the application fields where wastewater nutrients are needed or other components of the waste management system. Soil 

nutrients in the near fields have high phosphorus levels from over application near the waste storage facility. The current application operation is high in the use of time 

and energy and may cause water quality concerns as it is not efficient in transporting the waste to the field. 

After Situation:

Install a 1000 foot long 10 inch diameter PVC gasketted IPS pipe and is water tight to transfer the manure an/or wastewater. This scenario includes the pipe, inlet riser, 

couplers, air-vac vents, all other fittings, and risers placed as specified by the design, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be evaluated by the 

designing engineer to make sure the design will function. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $33,497.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $33.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 127 $765.81

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 1000 $2,950.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 11594 $27,477.78

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #7 - Pressure flow, 12 inch or greater diameter conduit

Scenario Description:

PVC pipelines are used to transfer manure wastewater by a low pressure pump from the waste storage pond to the field where it is applied according to the CNMP. These 

pipelines may also be utilized to transfer waste within the waste treatment system. PVC transfer pipelines can be between 3' and 30' diameter. This practice includes the 

pipe plus an inlet riser structure, clean-out risers and outlet risers plus all other valves and fittings, trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. 

Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material (additional 

10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special bedding 

requirements. This pipeline is part of a manure transfer system for a planned waste management or comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario addresses 

the transport of liquid waste to prevent a water quality resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water and/or 

excessive nutrients/organics in ground water. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, 

Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste 

Recycling; PS 635, Vegetated Treatment Area. 

Before Situation:

The waste storage structure is separated from the application fields where wastewater nutrients are needed or other components of the waste management system. Soil 

nutrients in the near fields have high phosphorus levels from over application near the waste storage facility. The current application operation is high in the use of time 

and energy and may cause water quality concerns as it is not efficient in transporting the waste to the field. 

After Situation:

Install a 300 foot long 12 inch diameter PVC gasketted IPS pipe and is water tight to transfer the manure an/or wastewater. This scenario includes the pipe, inlet riser, 

couplers, air-vac vents, all other fittings, and risers placed as specified by the design, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be evaluated by the 

designing engineer to make sure the design will function. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,906.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $49.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 2 $463.08

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 97 $235.71

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 89 $536.67

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 4893.9 $11,598.54

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #9 - Agitator, Slurry Transfer

Scenario Description:

This scenario is for a manure and wastewater agitator, piping and reception pit associated with an agricultural production operation to transfer agricultural waste product 

from the storage facility to a site for proper utilization. This agitator is typically 30 HP and is used where the tank or pond is between 10 and 15 feet deep. This scenario 

does not include a pump. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 

632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, Waste Recycling The waste 

transfer equipment is installed to address water quality concerns by facilitating timely land application of waste at agronomic rates according to the nutrient management 

plan. This scenario addresses the potential for surface water and groundwater quality degradation.

Before Situation:

In this typical setting, the operator has waste production from a confined animal feeding operation without an effective waste handling and transfer system to manage the 

waste stream departing from the facility. 

After Situation:

A typical installation would be for a medium 30 HP manure agitator to put settled manure solids into suspension for removal from an animal waste storage structure and 

transfer to the next step of waste treatment, utilization or storage. Part of an animal waste management system to address water quality concerns. Wastewater reception 

pit, Concrete Pump installation pit and transfer conduit have been included in this scenario to support the operation of this waste transfer system equipment.

Feature Measure: Agitator for wastewater, installed

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $36,521.43

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36,521.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 3 $694.62

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 6 $3,164.64

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 16.6 $9,905.39

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 160 $220.80

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 2610.1 $6,185.94

Manure agitator, mixing depth 10 1766

to 15 feet deep

Agitator to move put settled manure solids into suspension for removal 

from an animal waste storage structure. Materials only.

Each $13,030.33 1 $13,030.33

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #34 - Hard-hose Reel System with Booster incorporated into Traveler

Scenario Description:

Liquid manure is transferred from the waste storage pond to the field application site through the use of a hard hose reel system. The hard hose, which is drug across the 

field behind the tractor implement, allows the injection of manure directly into the soil. The traveler/reel allows handling and management of the stiff, non-collapsable, 

above ground, hard hose. Pressure requirements call for a traveler which incorporates a booster pump into its capability. This scenario does NOT account for labor and/or 

tractor/implement costs to apply the manure. It merely addresses equipment needed fulfill the CNMP and transfer the waste to its application site. The hard hose 

traveler assembly is part of a waste management system. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; 

PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application.

Before Situation:

The current manure effluent application operation is high in the use of time, energy and inefficiency. Nutrients are lost via drift and vaporization. Water quality concerns 

exist when liquids are surface and over-applied. Odor concerns exist with surface application of liquids. Field conditions are impaired when soil compaction occurs as a 

result of heavy tankers traveling on moist soils in order to spread the liquids.

After Situation:

Liquid manure is transferred to injection equipment through the use of a hard hose reel/traveler. This piece of drag hose is required to utilize injection style equipment for 

manure application to the field. With injection style application the potential for surface runoff is nearly eliminated. Furthermore, odors and drift losses are significantly 

reduced. The hard hose traveler typically houses 1320 lineal feet of 4' dia hard hose. Pumps needed to deliver manure through the system are contracted using the 

Pumping Plant (533) practice. 150 ft of 160 psi HDPE pipe is used above ground to deliver manure from the pump (and/or riser) to the hard hose traveler.

Feature Measure: number of hard hose travelers

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $53,947.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $53,947.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 344 $1,276.24

Hard Hose and Reel System, >3 in. 2442

dia.

Hard hose and reel system with > 3 inch nominal size hose. This 

includes the hard hose and reel only. Normal hose length 1320'.

Feet $39.83 1320 $52,575.60
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #35 - Hard-hose Reel System

Scenario Description:

Liquid manure is transferred from the waste storage pond to the field application site through the use of a hard hose reel system. The hard hose, which is drug across the 

field behind the tractor implement, allows the injection of manure directly into the soil. The traveler/reel allows handling and management of the stiff, non-collapsable, 

above ground, hard hose. This scenario does NOT account for labor and/or tractor/implement costs to apply the manure. It merely addresses equipment needed fulfill 

the CNMP and transfer the waste to its application site.

Before Situation:

The current manure effluent application operation is high in the use of time, energy and inefficiency. Nutrients are lost via drift and vaporization. Water quality concerns 

exist when liquids are surface and over-applied. Odor concerns exist with surface application of liquids. Field conditions are impaired when soil compaction occurs as a 

result of heavy tankers traveling on moist soils in order to spread the liquids.

After Situation:

Liquid manure is transferred to injection equipment through the use of a hard hose reel/traveler. This piece of drag hose is required to utilize injection style equipment for 

manure application to the field. With injection style application the potential for surface runoff is nearly eliminated. Furthermore, odors and drift losses are significantly 

reduced. The hard hose traveler typically houses 1320 lineal feet of 4' dia hard hose. Pumps needed to deliver manure through the system are contracted using the 

Pumping Plant (533) practice. 150 ft of 160 psi HDPE pipe is used above ground to deliver manure from the pump (and/or riser) to the hard hose traveler.

Feature Measure: number of hard hose travelers

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $53,947.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $53,947.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 344 $1,276.24

Hard Hose and Reel System, >3 in. 2442

dia.

Hard hose and reel system with > 3 inch nominal size hose. This 

includes the hard hose and reel only. Normal hose length 1320'.

Feet $39.83 1320 $52,575.60
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #43 - Pressure or gravity flow conduit that includes one boring under roadway

Scenario Description:

PVC pipelines are used to transfer manure wastewater by a low pressure pump from the waste storage pond to the field where it is applied according to the CNMP. These 

pipelines may also be utilized to transfer waste within the waste treatment system. PVC transfer pipelines can be between 3' and 30' diameter. This practice includes the 

pipe plus an inlet riser structure, clean-out risers and outlet risers plus all other valves and fittings, trench excavation and backfill, labor and a equipment for installation. 

Includes boring 52 lineal feet under a heavily used road, such as a state or county highway which has an average of 12' wide lanes, 6' shoulder width, and 8' width 

sideslopes. Appurtenances include: couplings, fittings, air vents, pressure relief valves, thrust blocks, risers, and inline valves, and are included in the cost of pipe material 

(additional 10% of pipe material quantity). Cost of appurtenances does not include flow meters or backflow preventers. Typical installation applies to soils with no special 

bedding requirements. This pipeline is part of a manure transfer system for a planned waste management or comprehensive nutrient management plan. This scenario 

addresses the transport of liquid waste to prevent a water quality resource concern of excessive nutrients/organics and harmful levels of pathogens in surface water 

and/or excessive nutrients/organics in ground water. Associated practices may include: PS 313 Waste Storage Facility for storage structures; PS 533, Pumping Plant; 

PS 430, Irrigation Pipeline; PS 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; PS 468, Lined Waterway or Outlet; PS 590 Nutrient Management for waste application; PS 633, 

Waste Recycling; PS 635, Vegetated Treatment Area.

Before Situation:

The waste storage structure is separated from the application fields where wastewater nutrients are needed or other components of the waste management system. Soil 

nutrients in the near fields have high phosphorus levels from over application near the waste storage facility. The current application operation is high in the use of time 

and energy and may cause water quality concerns as it is not efficient in transporting the waste to the field. 

After Situation:

Install a 1000 foot long 10 inch diameter PVC gasketted IPS pipe and is water tight to transfer the manure an/or wastewater. This scenario includes the pipe, inlet riser, 

couplers, air-vac vents, all other fittings, and risers placed as specified by the design, trench excavation, pipe bedding and backfill. The site should be evaluated by the 

designing engineer to make sure the design will function. 

Feature Measure: Length of pipe installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $39,529.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $39.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formless, non 36

reinforced

Non reinforced concrete cast-in-placed without forms by chute 

placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, 

labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $231.54 1 $231.54

Earthfill, Manually Compacted 50 Earthfill, manually compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $6.03 127 $765.81

Trenching, Earth, loam, 24 in. x 48 54

in.

Trenching, earth, loam, 24 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes 

equipment and labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $2.95 948 $2,796.60

Horizontal Boring, Greater Than 3 1132

in. diameter

Includes equipment, labor and setup. Feet $118.95 52 $6,185.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 11594 $27,477.78

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: 634 - Waste Transfer

Scenario: #60 - Lot Runoff Containment Wall

Scenario Description:

Typical installation consists of a 2' high concrete wall with an adjacent 5' wide, 5' thick concrete slab. Typical length is 300'. The purpose is to direct lot runoff to a 

collection basin or waste storage facility. Wall also allows manure to be scraped to waste storage facility. Associated practices may include: 313, Waste Storage Facility; 

533, Pumping Plant; 632, Waste Separation Facility; 590, Nutrient Management; 633, Waste Recycling; 561, Heavy Use Protection Area.

Before Situation:

Current facility operations are allowing manure laden lot runoff to discharge from the feedlot and cause water resources to be contaminated.

After Situation:

Installation of a concrete wall with footing to direct manure laden lot runoff to a collection basin and/or waste storage facility. Water quality concerns will be addressed 

by preventing liquid waste from entering surface waters, and to facilitate timely land application of manure and wastewater at agronomic rates according to the CNMP. 

This scenario addresses the potential for surface water and groundwater quality degradation. Associated practices may include: 313, Waste Storage Facility for storage 

structures; 533, Pumping Plant; 632, Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility; 590, Nutrient Management for waste application; 633, Waste Recycling.

Feature Measure: Length of Wall Installed

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $29,435.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $98.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 14 $7,384.16

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 34 $20,288.14

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 4 $316.16

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 32 $528.64

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #1 - Concrete Curb, with or without flow spreaders

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel installed down slope from a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is 

properly collected and released with a controlled gravity outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice 

addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste 

Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 2.0 ac in size, includes a concrete curb for distribution flow (sheet flow) into the VTA. Usually requires grading and shaping, gravel spreader trenches and 

perforated pipe to maintain sheet flow throughout the VTA. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632). For 

milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pre-treatment prior to being released into the VTA. The VTA practice will provide a controlled 

release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and 

prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources. 

Feature Measure: Amount of VTA installed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,818.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,409.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 7 $3,692.08

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 600 $654.00

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 70 $170.10

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 24 $1,896.96

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 70 $1,505.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #2 - Concrete Curb with major shaping

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel installed down slope from a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is 

properly collected and released with a controlled gravity outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice 

addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste 

Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 2.0 ac in size, includes a concrete curb for distribution flow (sheet flow) into the VTA. Typically requires considerable grading and shaping on a small area to 

maintain sheet flow throughout the VTA (at least 3000 cy/ac). A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632). 

For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pre-treatment prior to being released into the VTA. The VTA practice will provide a 

controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich 

wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources. 

Feature Measure: Amount of VTA installed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $26,724.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13,362.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, slab on grade, 37

reinforced

Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed as a slab on grade 

by chute placement. Typical strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes 

materials, labor and equipment to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $527.44 7 $3,692.08

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 6453 $21,488.49

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #3 - Gated Pipe, with or without flow spreaders

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel installed down slope from a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is 

properly collected and released with a controlled outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice addresses 

water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste 

Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 10.0 ac in size, includes a gated irrigation pipe to promote sheet flow through the VTA. Usually requires grading and shaping, gravel spreader trenches to 

maintain sheet flow throughout the VTA. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632). For milkhouse waste, 

Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pre-treatment prior to being released into the VTA. The establishment of the permanent vegetation within the 

VTA will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Standard. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed 

vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water 

resources. 

Feature Measure: Acres in the Treatment Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,278.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,327.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Geotextile, woven 42 Woven Geotextile Fabric. Includes materials, equipment and labor Square Yard $1.09 2800 $3,052.00

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 310 $753.30

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 50 $69.00

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 24 $1,896.96

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 310 $6,668.10

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 179 $424.23

Pipe, aluminum, smooth wall, 1382

weight priced

Aluminum manufactured into smooth wall pipe Pound $6.71 1120 $7,515.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #4 - Gated Pipe with major shaping

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel installed down slope from a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is 

properly collected and released with a controlled outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This practice addresses 

water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste 

Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 2 ac in size, includes a gated irrigation pipe to promote sheet flow through the VTA. Typically requires considerable grading and shaping on a small area to 

maintain sheet flow throughout the VTA (at least 3000 cy/ac). A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632). 

For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pre-treatment prior to being released into the VTA. The establishment of the permanent 

vegetation within the VTA will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Standard. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater 

into a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and 

ground water resources. 

Feature Measure: Acres in the Treatment Area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,028.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,514.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 6453 $21,488.49

Trenching, Earth, 12 in. x 48 in. 53 Trenching, earth, 12 inch wide x 48 inch depth, includes equipment and 

labor for trenching and backfilling

Feet $1.38 50 $69.00

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 179 $424.23

Pipe, aluminum, smooth wall, 1382

weight priced

Aluminum manufactured into smooth wall pipe Pound $6.71 224 $1,503.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #5 - Sprinkler, Solid Set Distribution

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area located adjacent to a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is properly collected at 

the production area and pumped to mechanically distribute wastewater onto the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This 

practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant 

(533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land 

Forming (462), Waste Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 8.0 ac in size. Typically does not require grading and shaping to maintain as uniform application onto the VTA is made through a solid set type sprinkler 

system. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632) and Pumping Plant (533) to get the wastewater to the 

VTA. For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pretreatment prior to being pumped and distributed onto the VTA. The VTA practice 

will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater onto a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating 

nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources. 

Feature Measure: Amount of VTA installed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 8.00

Scenario Total Cost: $62,551.74

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,818.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 24 $1,235.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Materials

Irrigation, Solid Set, 324

w/Appurtenances

Solid Set irrigation system that includes pipe, sprinklers, connections, 

and appurtenances.

Acres $5,677.09 8 $45,416.72

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 2208 $5,232.96

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 3618 $8,574.66

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #6 - Sprinkler, Mobile Pods

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area located adjacent to a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is properly collected at 

the production area and pumped to mechanically distribute wastewater onto the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This 

practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant 

(533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land 

Forming (462), Waste Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 3.0 ac in size. Typically does not require grading and shaping to maintain as uniform application onto the VTA is made through a mobile pod type sprinkler 

system. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632) and Pumping Plant (533) to get the wastewater to the 

VTA. For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pretreatment prior to being pumped and distributed onto the VTA. The VTA practice 

will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater onto a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating 

nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water 

resources. The system is sized such that the total number of Pods 

will distribute wastewater to about a quarter of 3 acre VTA. The pods will be relocated to distribute wastewater throughout the VTA. The VTA is 440 ft x 300 ft. Each Pod 

Line is 150 ft long with 5 pods spaced evenly. The total number of Pods is 20 (4 lines x 5 pods/line = 20 pods). 

Feature Measure: Amount of VTA installed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,745.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,915.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 3 $200.43

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 16 $823.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 19 $591.66

Materials

Irrigation, Pod System, 323

w/Appurtenances

Pod irrigation system that includes pod, pipe, sprinklers, connections, 

and appurtenances. Includes materials only.

Each $384.85 20 $7,697.00

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1480 $3,507.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #7 - Sprinkler, Center Pivot

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area located adjacent to a livestock production area. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor wastewater) is properly collected at 

the production area and pumped to mechanically distribute wastewater onto the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This 

practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Irrigation System, Sprinkler (442), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant 

(533), Subsurface Drain (606), Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land 

Forming (462), Waste Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 8.0 ac in size. Typically does not require grading and shaping to maintain as uniform application onto the VTA is made through a center pivot type sprinkler 

system. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632) and Pumping Plant (533) to get the wastewater to the 

VTA. For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment (629) could be contracted to provide pretreatment prior to being pumped and distributed onto the VTA. The VTA practice 

will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater onto a designed vegetative area for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating 

nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources. 

Feature Measure: Amount of VTA installed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 8.00

Scenario Total Cost: $34,531.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,316.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Trencher, 8 in. 936 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $51.46 16 $823.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Materials

Irrigation, Center pivot system 317

with appurtenances, fixed cost 

portion

Fixed cost portion of the center pivot system with appurtenances. This 

portion includes the following items: pivot point, pipe, towers, pad, 

controls, sprinklers.

Each $5,281.01 1 $5,281.01

Irrigation, Center pivot system 318

with appurtenances, variable cost 

portion

Variable cost portion of the center pivot system with appurtenances. 

This portion includes the following items: pivot point, pipe, towers, pad, 

controls, sprinklers.

Feet $71.59 333 $23,839.47

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 1338.7 $3,172.72
Practice: 635 - Vegetated Treatment Area

Scenario: #8 - Minor Shaping

Scenario Description:

This is a permanent herbaceous vegetative area or channel installed down slope from a livestock production area or diversion. Wastewater (runoff or milking parlor 

wastewater) is properly collected and released with a controlled outflow into the VTA. The VTA vegetation is harvested to removed nutrients on a regular basis. This 

practice addresses water quality degradation due to uncontrolled nutrient rich wastewater that can flow into surface waters or leach into ground 

water. Associated practices: Waste Storage Facility 

(313), Fence (382), Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632), Manure Transfer (634), Roof runoff Management (558), Pumping Plant (533), Subsurface Drain (606), 

Critical Area Planting (342), Terrace (600), Nutrient Management (590), Diversion (362), Pipeline (516), Land Smoothing (466), Precision Land Forming (462), Waste 

Treatment (629)

Before Situation:

Nutrient rich wastewater is running off from an animal operation that has the potential to pollute surface waters or ponding and leaching into groundwater. 

After Situation:

Typical VTA is 2.0 ac in size, includes a shaped vegetated area to promote sheet flow through the VTA. Typically requires grading and shaping to maintain sheet flow 

throughout the VTA. A settling basin for wastewater collection is contracted using Solid/Liquid Waste Separation Facility (632). For milkhouse waste, Waste Treatment 

(629) could be contracted to provide pre-treatment prior to being released into the VTA. The establishment of the permanent vegetation within the VTA will be 

completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Standard. The VTA practice will provide a controlled release of nutrient rich wastewater into a designed vegetative area 

for nutrient uptake. This system will improve water quality by treating nutrient rich wastewater and prevent contamination of surface and ground water resources.

Feature Measure: Amount of VTA installed

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,926.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,963.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 12 $1,214.52

Motor Grader, 160 HP 1781 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 160 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 150-170. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $145.72 4 $582.88

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 16 $585.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 636 - Water Harvesting Catchment

Scenario: #27 - Plastic tank, less than or equal to 1,000 gallons

Scenario Description:

Install a small, typically 1,000 gallons or less, above-ground polyethylene tank to store rainwater from an impervious surface on 6' of well-compacted drain rock or a 4' 

thick reinforced concrete support pad. The typical dimensions of the tank are 72' in diameter and 66' tall. The scenario also assumes a 96' diameter gravel base or concrete 

pad to extend a minimum of 12' past the base of tank for adequate foundation support. Stored water can be used with watering facilities, irrigation systems, or other 

conservation practices. The tank shall be constructed of approved materials that stores adequate quantity and quality of water for storage and or direct drinking access. 

Additional components may be needed to channel water from the impervious surface to the storage tank. All components used will be constructed from approved durable 

materials that have a life expectancy that meets or exceeds the planned useful life of the installation. Resource concerns addressed include: Inadequate water quantity for 

livestock, wildlife or crops; habitat degradation, water quality, and undesirable plant productivity and health. Associated Practices: 614 - Watering Facility; 516 - Livestock 

Pipeline; 558 - Roof Runoff Structure; 620 - Underground Outlet; 430 - Irrigation Pipeline; 441 - Micro Irrigation; 533 - Pumping Plant; 342 - Critical Area Planting; 382 - 

Fencing

Before Situation:

Impervious surface currently exists, but there is no storage available. Water quantity is not available or supplemented to provide for wildlife, livestock watering, irrigation, 

or for other conservation practices.

After Situation:

A 1,000 gallon above-ground Poly tank with all tank materials, stabilized in place, with overflow protection, is installed to collect and store water from an impervious 

surface. Tank will provide or support adequate water storage capacity to ensure against inadequate supply of water for livestock and or wildlife, habitat degradation, 

water quality, water quantity, crops, and undesirable plant productivity and health, and provide conservation benefit.

Feature Measure: Gallons of Tank Storage Capacity

Scenario Unit: Gallons

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,500.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 1 $102.14

Plate compactor 1915 Manually guided vibratroy plate compactor. Equipment only. Hours $19.20 1 $19.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Tank, Poly enclosed Storage, 300- 1074

1000 gal

Water storage tanks. Includes materials and shipping only. Gallons $1.68 1000 $1,680.00

Aggregate, Gravel, Ungraded, 1099

Quarry Run

Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. 

Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $16.52 1 $16.52

Cable, Galvanized steel 2182 Galvanized steel aircraft cable in 7 x 19 strand core. Materials and 

shipping only.

Feet $0.68 40 $27.20

Anchor, earthen, low disturbance, 2184

large

Low disturbance, galvanized or aluminum alloy earthen anchors with 

holding power greather than 3,000 pounds in normal soil. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $59.59 4 $238.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: 636 - Water Harvesting Catchment

Scenario: #28 - Surface Catchment

Scenario Description:

Construct an apron, approximately 50 feet wide by 90 feet long, utilizing: a plastic or rubber membrane laid on a prepared ground surface; or an asphalt or concrete 

surface with curbing; to collect rain water. Divert collected water from the surface catchment by gravity through an 8' diameter, PVC SDR-35 pipe to an existing tank or 

plastic-lined earthen reservoir. Exclusion of animals is required, so conservation practice 382 - Fencing, may be needed to protect the catchment. Resource Concern: 

Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock water. Associated Practices: 382 - Fencing; 614 - Watering Facility; 436 - Irrigation Reservoir; and 521A - Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane.

Before Situation:

Inadequate water available to address resource concerns. Client hauls water to supply needs. 

After Situation:

Design and construct an impervious surface as the primary collection component, and a pipe to convey the water to create a reliable water supply for livestock.

Feature Measure: Surface Area of Catchment

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,079.11

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 12 $948.48

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 12 $439.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Materials

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 593.6 $1,406.83

Synthetic Liner, 40 mil 1387 Synthetic 40 mil HDPE, LLDPE, EPDM, etc membrane liner material. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $7.46 500 $3,730.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 636 - Water Harvesting Catchment

Scenario: #29 - Elevated Catchment

Scenario Description:

Build a wooden frame, 'post-and-pier' structure, with a corrugated metal roof (dimensions are 24 feet wide by 20 feet long), to collect rain water. The structure is 

supported by 9-each, 'poured-in-place', concrete footings (dimensions are 2'x2' square x1' thick), 8 feet on-center, with tie-down straps. Divert collected water from 

catchment area with guttering and downspout through a 4' diameter PVC Schedule 40 pipe, to a tank (not included )for a reliable storage and subsequent use. Resource 

concerns: Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock water; Insufficient water - Inefficient use of irrigation water. Associated practices: 382 - Fence; 614 - 

Watering Facility; or 436 - Irrigation Reservoir.

Before Situation:

Inadequate water available to address resource concerns. Client hauls water to supply needs.

After Situation:

The guttering and downspouts collects the roof runoff and the water is conveyed through a pipe, by gravity, to a storage tank for use by livestock or a very small irrigation 

system. This system is the primary collection component of a Water Harvesting Catchment (CPS 636) facility. Divert collected water from roof with guttering and 

downspout through a 4' diameter PVC Sch-40 pipe,

Feature Measure: Surface Area of Catchment

Scenario Unit: Square Yard

Scenario Typical Size: 53.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,258.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $174.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Concrete, CIP, formed reinforced 38 Steel reinforced concrete formed and cast-in-placed in formed 

structures such as walls or suspended slabs by chute placement. Typical 

strength is 3000 to 4000 psi. Includes materials, labor and equipment 

to transport, place and finish.

Cubic Yards $596.71 1.5 $895.07

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 4 $267.24

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 120 $3,830.40

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 1 $36.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Materials

Dimension Lumber, Treated 1044 Treated dimension lumber with nominal thickness equal or less than 2 

inches. Includes lumber and fasteners

Board Feet $1.76 512 $901.12

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 214.8 $509.08

Gutter, Downspout, PVC, 5 in. 1388 5 inch PVC guttering. Materials only. Feet $1.28 24 $30.72

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 638 - Water and Sediment Control Basin

Scenario: #1 - WASCOB base

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario for the construction of 700 CY earthen embankment. Outlet is typically an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel 

generally constructed across the slope and minor watercourses to form a sediment trap and water detention basin. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. 

Costs include all equipment necessary to excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin and mobilization of equipment. This practice is 

utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. Sheet and rill erosion will be controlled by other 

conservation practices.

Before Situation:

Farming fields with excessive slope length has resulted in multiple rills and/or ephemeral gullies that will continue to worsen over time. The excessive erosion may lead to 

deterioration of receiving waters due to excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. Resource concern addressed includes soil erosion and water quality by trapping 

sediment and/or reduce erosion in a field to protect riparian areas and water bodies from sediment deposition. Surface water causes erosion and the sediment (and 

potentially pesticides) to be transported into the riparian areas and water bodies downstream.

After Situation:

Water and Sediment Control Basis is constructed with 700 CY of excavation/earthfill with dozer, scraper and/or road grader. Rill and/or gully erosion is reduced. If riser 

and underground outlet are needed, then include Underground Outlet (620). Include Critical Area Planting (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following 

construction activities.

Feature Measure: CY of WASCOB Embankment

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,759.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 700 $2,709.00

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 638 - Water and Sediment Control Basin

Scenario: #2 - WASCOB topsoil

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario for the construction of 700 CY earthen embankment. Prior to building the embankment, 6 inches of topsoil is removed and stockpiled. Outlet is typically 

an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel generally constructed across the slope and minor watercourses to form a sediment 

trap and water detention basin. Topsoil is replaced following construction of the embankment. Costs include all equipment necessary to strip and stock pile topsoil, 

excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin, spread and replace topsoil after construction and mobilization of equipment. Seeding not 

included. This practice is utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. Sheet and rill erosion will be 

controlled by other conservation practices. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. 

Before Situation:

Site has shallow topsoil which if removed by earthwork for construction of embankment will significantly impact yields. Farming fields with excessive slope length has 

resulted in multiple rills and/or ephemeral gullies that will continue to worsen over time. The excessive erosion may lead to deterioration of receiving waters due to 

excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. Resource concern addressed includes soil erosion and water quality by trapping sediment and/or reduce erosion in a field 

to protect riparian areas and water bodies from sediment deposition. Surface water causes erosion and the sediment (and potentially pesticides) is being transported into 

the riparian areas and water bodies downstream.

After Situation:

Water and Sediment Control Basis is constructed with 700 CY of excavation/earthfill with dozer, scraper and/or road grader. Rill and/or gully erosion is reduced. If riser 

and underground outlet are needed, then include Underground Outlet (620). Include Critical Area Planting (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following 

construction activities.

Feature Measure: CY of WASCOB Embankment

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,969.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 700 $2,709.00

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 250 $210.00

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 638 - Water and Sediment Control Basin

Scenario: #9 - WASCOB, Crop Season Construction

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario for the construction of 700 CY earthen embankment with a surface area of 0.4 acres. Prior to building the embankment, 6 inches of topsoil is removed and 

stockpiled. Outlet is typically an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel generally constructed across the slope and minor 

watercourses to form a sediment trap and water detention basin. Topsoil is replaced following construction of the embankment. Costs include all equipment necessary to 

strip and stock pile topsoil, excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin, spread and replace topsoil after construction and mobilization of 

equipment. Seeding not included. This practice is utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. 

Sheet and rill erosion will be controlled by other conservation practices. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Foregone income reflects entire construction 

area to account for crop loss while constructing during the growing season.

Before Situation:

Site has shallow topsoil which if removed by earthwork for construction of embankment will significantly impact yields. Farming fields with excessive slope length has 

resulted in multiple rills and/or ephemeral gullies that will continue to worsen over time. The excessive erosion may lead to deterioration of receiving waters due to 

excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. Resource concern addressed includes soil erosion and water quality by trapping sediment and/or reduce erosion in a field 

to protect riparian areas and water bodies from sediment deposition. Surface water causes erosion and the sediment (and potentially pesticides) is being transported into 

the riparian areas and water bodies downstream.

After Situation:

Water and Sediment Control Basis is constructed with 700 CY of excavation/earthfill with dozer, scraper and/or road grader. Rill and/or gully erosion is reduced. If riser 

and underground outlet are needed, then include Underground Outlet (620). Include Critical Area Planting (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following 

construction activities.

Feature Measure: CY of WASCOB Embankment

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,093.29

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 700 $2,709.00

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 250 $210.00

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.2 $70.50

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.2 $53.39

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 638 - Water and Sediment Control Basin

Scenario: #11 - WASCOB, Crop Season Construction

Scenario Description:

Typical scenario for the construction of 700 CY earthen embankment with a surface area of 0.4 acres. Prior to building the embankment, 6 inches of topsoil is removed and 

stockpiled. Outlet is typically an underground outlet. An earthen embankment or combination ridge and channel generally constructed across the slope and minor 

watercourses to form a sediment trap and water detention basin. Topsoil is replaced following construction of the embankment. Costs include all equipment necessary to 

strip and stock pile topsoil, excavate, shape, grade and compact the Water and Sediment Control Basin, spread and replace topsoil after construction and mobilization of 

equipment. Seeding not included. This practice is utilized to reduce watercourse and gully erosion, trap sediment, reduce and manage onsite and downstream runoff. 

Sheet and rill erosion will be controlled by other conservation practices. Work is done with dozer, scraper, or road grader. Foregone income reflects entire construction 

area to account for crop loss while constructing during the growing season.

Before Situation:

Site has shallow topsoil which if removed by earthwork for construction of embankment will significantly impact yields. Farming fields with excessive slope length has 

resulted in multiple rills and/or ephemeral gullies that will continue to worsen over time. The excessive erosion may lead to deterioration of receiving waters due to 

excessive sedimentation and nutrient transport. Resource concern addressed includes soil erosion and water quality by trapping sediment and/or reduce erosion in a field 

to protect riparian areas and water bodies from sediment deposition. Surface water causes erosion and the sediment (and potentially pesticides) is being transported into 

the riparian areas and water bodies downstream.

After Situation:

Water and Sediment Control Basis is constructed with 700 CY of excavation/earthfill with dozer, scraper and/or road grader. Rill and/or gully erosion is reduced. If riser 

and underground outlet are needed, then include Underground Outlet (620). Include Critical Area Planting (342) where necessary to prevent erosion following 

construction activities.

Feature Measure: CY of WASCOB Embankment

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 700.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,002.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 250 $210.00

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 700 $1,897.00

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.2 $70.50

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.2 $53.39

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 640 - Waterspreading

Scenario: #1 - Dikes

Scenario Description:

A waterspreading system of dikes installed to uniformly distribute surface water to the field. Dikes are commonly installed on 2% slopes. Dikes are installed with gates to 

manage the release of the water.

Before Situation:

A field managed for forage with uncontrolled surface water that is not uniformly applied to the field for crop use.

After Situation:

A waterspreading system of dikes are installed to uniformly distribute surface water to the field. The dikes are typically built with a height of 3 feet and have a 4 foot top 

with 5:1 sideslopes to allow the dike to mowed or cut. The dikes are seeded with a sod forming grass. Each dike will retain water on the field and allow the water to be 

drained through a 18' CMP pipe with a slide gate (typically a Waterman C8E gate). The typical field size would be 20 acres and would have three dikes approximatley 1000' 

long installed with 200-300 feet between dikes. The system would address the resource concern of Water Quantity - Inefficient water use on nonirrigated land. 

Associated practices with the system are 342 Critical Area Planting, 412 - Grassed Waterway, 587 - Structure for Water Control, 511 - Forage Harvest Management.

Feature Measure: Acres with supplemental water

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $41,782.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,089.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 8233 $31,861.71

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 5 $334.05

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1900 $1,596.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 7 $256.20

Materials

Pipe, CMP, 18-16 gauge, weight 1322

priced

18 and 16 gauge galvanized helical corrugated metal pipe priced by the 

weight of the pipe materials. Materials only.

Pound $2.07 1800 $3,726.00

Slide gate, steel, 2 ft. diameter, 1829

low head

2 ft. diameter steel slide gate for low head installations Each $657.00 3 $1,971.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #1 - Well Point

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for a 2' diameter well screen, 36' long, with 2'diameter pipe and couplings are driven or water jetted to a typical depth depth of 20 feet into a 

shallow water bearing formation. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock. The area near the well point is sloped to direct surface water away from 

entering the well.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source.

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where necessary to prevent 

erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,228.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $148.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 2 $712.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Well Cap, 2 in. 1784 Well cap, 2 inch. Materials only. Each $33.37 1 $33.37

Well Casing, Stainless 1796

Steel/Copper, 2 in.

Stainless steel or Copper well casing, 2 inch. Materials only. Feet $35.00 17 $595.00

Well Screen, plastic, 2 in. 1997 2 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $4.83 3 $14.49

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #2 - Dug (Excavated) Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the excavation of a shallow dug well. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock. A typical dug well is 4 foot in diameter and 15 

feet in depth. The well is excavated using a backhoe. Excavate to a depth where the water recharge is greater than the equipment can remove. Washed gravel is placed in 

the base of the dug opening. Concrete manhole risers are installed to hold the water. Pea gravel is placed above the washed gravel to transition to the earth backfill. The 

hole is backfilled and sloped to direct surface water away from entering the manhole cover. 

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source.

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where necessary to prevent 

erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,322.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $621.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 10 $668.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 10 $366.00

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 3 $64.53

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Manhole, 4 ft x 4 ft 1053 Precast Manhole with base and top delivered. 4 feet diameter x 4 

feet. Includes materials only.

Each $1,415.70 4 $5,662.80

Aggregate, gravel, washed, pea 1331

gravel

Washed and graded pea gravel river stone. Includes materials and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $23.03 1 $23.03

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 5 $34.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #3 - Shallow Well, 100 ft. deep or less

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur within 100 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, 

driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or irrigation. An average well 

depth is 75 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Plastic casing is installed to a depth of 55 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 75.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,652.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $88.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 8 $2,851.52

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 1 $21.51

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 4 in. 1785 Well cap, 4 inch. Materials only. Each $36.66 1 $36.66

Well Casing, Plastic, 4 in. 1803 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 4 inch. Materials only. Feet $5.96 55 $327.80

Well Screen, plastic, 4 in. 1998 4 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $9.06 20 $181.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #4 - Shallow Well, 100 ft. deep or less, ND

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well with a pitless unit, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur within 100 feet of the ground surface. The well 

shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or 

irrigation. An average well depth is 75 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Plastic casing is installed to a depth of 55 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Each Well

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,201.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,201.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 8 $2,851.52

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 1 $21.51

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 4 in. 1785 Well cap, 4 inch. Materials only. Each $36.66 1 $36.66

Well Casing, Plastic, 4 in. 1803 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 4 inch. Materials only. Feet $5.96 55 $327.80

Well Screen, plastic, 4 in. 1998 4 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $9.06 20 $181.20

Pitless Adapter Unit 2549 Attach pitless adapter unit to existing well casing. Includes materials 

only.

Each $246.82 1 $246.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #5 - Single PVC Casing, greater than 100 ft. deep

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur 100 - 300 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, 

driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. An average 

well depth is 200 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Plastic casing and screen is installed to a depth of 200 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,551.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 8 $2,851.52

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Aggregate, gravel, washed, pea 1331

gravel

Washed and graded pea gravel river stone. Includes materials and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $23.03 1.5 $34.55

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 4 in. 1785 Well cap, 4 inch. Materials only. Each $36.66 1 $36.66

Well Casing, Plastic, 4 in. 1803 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 4 inch. Materials only. Feet $5.96 150 $894.00

Well Screen, plastic, 4 in. 1998 4 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $9.06 50 $453.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #6 - Single PVC Casing with pitless unit, greater than 100 ft. deep

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well with a pitless unit, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur 100 - 300 feet of the ground surface. The well shall 

be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or microirrigation. An average well depth is 200 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Plastic casing and screen is installed to a depth of 200 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,375.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $61.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 2 $133.62

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 20 $7,128.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 14 $334.32

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 2 $73.20

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 1.5 $32.27

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 4 in. 1785 Well cap, 4 inch. Materials only. Each $36.66 1 $36.66

Well Casing, Plastic, 4 in. 1803 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 4 inch. Materials only. Feet $5.96 150 $894.00

Well Screen, plastic, 4 in. 1998 4 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $9.06 50 $453.00

Pitless Adapter Unit 2549 Attach pitless adapter unit to existing well casing. Includes materials 

only.

Each $246.82 1 $246.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #9 - Dual Casing PVC

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur within 300 feet from the ground surface in formations that typically 

contain artesian pressure. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to 

provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. An average well depth is 300 feet. Surface casings are 4-6' in diameter with grouting to contain artesian pressures, smaller 

diameter casing (2') extends into water bearing formation. Plastic casing and screen is installed to a typical depth of 300 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,651.41

Scenario Cost/Unit: $65.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 40 $14,257.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 1 $719.35

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Plastic, 2 in. 1802 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 2 inch. Materials only. Feet $2.84 270 $766.80

Well Casing, Plastic, 6 in. 1804 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $11.45 100 $1,145.00

Well Screen, plastic, 2 in. 1997 2 inch PVC well screen. Materials only. Feet $4.83 30 $144.90

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #146 - Shallow Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur within 100 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, 

driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or irrigation. An average well 

depth is 75 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 50 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,184.03

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10,184.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 10 $3,564.40

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Metal, 6 in. 1810 Steel well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $31.20 50 $1,560.00

Well Screen, stainless steel, 6 in. 1995 6 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $109.21 25 $2,730.25

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #147 - Dug Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the excavation of a shallow dug well. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock. A typical dug well is 4 foot in diameter and 15 

feet in depth. The well is excavated using a backhoe. Excavate to a depth where the water recharge is greater than the equipment can remove. Washed gravel is placed in 

the base of the dug opening. Concrete manhole risers are installed to hold the water. Pea gravel is placed above the washed gravel to transition to the earth backfill. The 

hole is backfilled and sloped to direct surface water away from entering the manhole cover. 

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source.

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where necessary to prevent 

erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,371.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14,371.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 10 $668.10

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 11 $402.60

Materials

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 3 $64.53

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Manhole, 4 ft x 4 ft 1053 Precast Manhole with base and top delivered. 4 feet diameter x 4 

feet. Includes materials only.

Each $1,415.70 5 $7,078.50

Aggregate, gravel, washed, pea 1331

gravel

Washed and graded pea gravel river stone. Includes materials and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $23.03 1 $23.03

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 7 $5,035.45

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 5 $34.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #148 - Typical Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur 100 - 600 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, 

driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. An average 

well depth is 400 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 300 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $37,046.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37,046.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 40.5 $14,435.82

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Metal, 6 in. 1810 Steel well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $31.20 300 $9,360.00

Well Screen, stainless steel, 6 in. 1995 6 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $109.21 100 $10,921.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #149 - Deep Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur > 600 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, 

bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. An average well 

depth is 800 feet. Well casings are 4-6' in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 600 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $68,020.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $68,020.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 70.5 $25,129.02

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Metal, 6 in. 1810 Steel well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $31.20 600 $18,720.00

Well Screen, stainless steel, 6 in. 1995 6 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $109.21 200 $21,842.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #150 - High Volume Shallow Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur within 100 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, 

driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for overhead irrigation. An average well 

depth is 75 feet. Well casings are = 8' in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 50 feet.

Before Situation:

There is insufficient water for use in irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,190.45

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15,190.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 10.5 $3,742.62

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 10 in. 1788 Well cap, 10 inch. Materials only. Each $120.05 1 $120.05

Well Casing, Metal, 10 in. 1812 Steel well casing, 10 inch. Materials only. Feet $63.59 50 $3,179.50

Well Screen, stainless steel, 10 in. 1996 10 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $235.09 25 $5,877.25

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #151 - High Volume Typical Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur 100 - 600 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, 

driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. An average 

well depth is 400 feet. Well casings are = 8' in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 300 feet.

Before Situation:

There is insufficient water for use in irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $59,412.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $59,412.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 40.5 $14,435.82

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 10 in. 1788 Well cap, 10 inch. Materials only. Each $120.05 1 $120.05

Well Casing, Metal, 10 in. 1812 Steel well casing, 10 inch. Materials only. Feet $63.59 300 $19,077.00

Well Screen, stainless steel, 10 in. 1996 10 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $235.09 100 $23,509.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #152 - High Volume Deep Well

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur > 600 feet of the ground surface. The well shall be drilled, dug, driven, 

bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. An average well 

depth is 400 feet. Well casings are = 8' in diameter. Steel casing is installed to a depth of 600 feet.

Before Situation:

There is insufficient water for use in irrigation. 

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construciton activities.

Feature Measure: No.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $112,692.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $112,692.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 70.5 $25,129.02

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 2 $1,438.70

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 10 in. 1788 Well cap, 10 inch. Materials only. Each $120.05 1 $120.05

Well Casing, Metal, 10 in. 1812 Steel well casing, 10 inch. Materials only. Feet $63.59 600 $38,154.00

Well Screen, stainless steel, 10 in. 1996 10 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $235.09 200 $47,018.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 642 - Water Well

Scenario: #153 - Steel or Copper, 100 ft. or deeper

Scenario Description:

Typical construction is for the installation of a well, in areas where sufficient water is known to occur greater than 2000 feet from the ground surface. The well shall be 

drilled, dug, driven, bored, jetted or otherwise constructed to an aquifer for water supply. The purpose of the practice is to provide water for livestock or micro-irrigation. 

An average well depth is 2500 feet. Plastic Surface casings are 6 in diameter with smaller diameter casing and screen extending into the water bearing formation. Steel 

casing and screen is installed to a typical depth of 2500 feet.

Before Situation:

Livestock have insufficient water or are fenced from their water source. There is insufficient water for use in micro-irrigation.

After Situation:

Sufficient water is available for livestock or micro-irrigation. Utilize Pumping Plant (533) and Pipeline (516) as associated practices. Use Critical Area Seeding (342) where 

necessary to prevent erosion following construction activities.

Feature Measure: Depth of Well

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $128,128.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $64.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Rotary Drill Rig 1595 Rotary drill rig including equipment and power unit costs. Labor not 

included.

Hours $356.44 120 $42,772.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 200 $4,776.00

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 1 $53.50

Grout, cement 1333 Cement grout meeting ASTM specifications for well sealing. Includes 

both neat-cement grout and bentonite gout mixtures. Includes 

materials, equipment and labor to place.

Cubic Yards $719.35 1 $719.35

Chlorine 1335 Liquid chlorine bleach. Includes materials only. Gallons $6.95 1 $6.95

Well Cap, 6 in. 1786 Well cap, 6 inch. Materials only. Each $58.35 1 $58.35

Well Casing, Stainless 1796

Steel/Copper, 2 in.

Stainless steel or Copper well casing, 2 inch. Materials only. Feet $35.00 2000 $70,000.00

Well Casing, Plastic, 6 in. 1804 PVC or ABS non-threaded well casing, 6 inch. Materials only. Feet $11.45 500 $5,725.00

Well Screen, stainless steel, 2 in. 2278 2 inch Stainless steel well screen. Materials only. Feet $49.45 50 $2,472.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #1 - Monitoring & Management, Low Intensity and Complexity - No Foregone Income 

Scenario Description:

Setting is any land use with the potential to provide habitat for species of plants and animals identified as Rare and Declining and the habitat potential is not currently 

being captured. The identified habitat limiting factors can be restored, enhanced or created, with the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other 

supporting and facilitating practices. Monitoring will be used to determine if the conservation system meets or exceeds the minimum planning criteria for the targeted 

wildlife. Management will be implemented based on the findings of the habitat assessment and monitoring. Habitat management and monitoring needed to treat the 

resource concerns requires no training, no qualitative data assessment, no water quality monitoring and is low in complexity and intensity. Examples of prescribed 

monitoring, include but are not limited to: photo points taken, documentation of livestock utilization, regeneration/breeding success, completing an annual management 

records log, documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments. No decision or 

treatment associated with this practice or facilitating practices will require foregone income. The planner will specify locations and identify the methods to the customer 

who will implement the monitoring and management plan. 

Before Situation:

Existing degraded plant conditions and resulting inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife have resulted in low use of the area by target species identified as Rare and 

Declining and other associated species. 

After Situation:

Based on the results of a State approved upland wildlife habitat assessment process, the application of habitat management efforts and prescribed monitoring have been 

implemented. With the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices, the inadequate habitat conditions have been 

addressed. Monitoring and resulting management has maximized the benefits of the needed habitat treatment efforts.

Feature Measure: Acres Managed and Monitored

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $542.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Aerial Imagery 966 Aerial imagery. RBG (color), infrared or NDVI single image. Acres $1.77 100 $177.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #34 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Very-Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types were the native plant condition (i.e. T&E plant species) or wildlife habitat is the resource concern, and where very-low intensity 

and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 

4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxs, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning 

of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 16 hours of labor per year.

Before Situation:

Rare or declining habitat is deficient and annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of very-low intensity and complexity will improved conditions. 

After Situation:

Rare and declining habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of very- low intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $701.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 2 $12.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #35 - Development of Deep Micro-Topographic Features with Heavy Equipment.

Scenario Description:

This typical scenario is installed on open non-wetlands, where micro-topographic features have been removed by past farming and/or ranching cultural practices. The 

purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed 2 

weeks prior to excavation to kill existing vegetation and allow for proper dirt work. Then the soil is excavated with track equipment (dozer) to a depth of 6-12 inches and 

immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a dozer -blade restores the original deep micro-topographic features (10' X10' depressions and mounds) common to 

many landscapes and landforms prior to the lands conversion to agricultural lands. This scenario it typically implemented for ecosystem restoration projects such as 

wetland restoration (herbaceous or prior to planting of woody species), prairie restoration and range-land restoration. It is most commonly applied to well-drained soils as 

the purpose is for the micro-depression to pond water for short duration (less than 7 days).

Before Situation:

Micro-topographic features have been eliminated by past conversion to agriculture and/or past cultural practices. This has resulted in the lack of micro-soil moisture 

gradients within the field. The opportunity for plant species richness and diversity is minimal. Water storage potential is absent. Water rapidly runs off the field after 

rains and snow melt, carrying nutrients, solids and surface organic materials. No micro-ponding sites are available aquatic dependent invertebrates. Vertebrate wildlife 

habitat is lacking diversity.

After Situation:

Deep (6' - 12' depth) micro-depressions and mounds are numerous. These varied micro-topographic features provide varied moisture gradients required for development 

of high plant species richness and diversity. Wildlife habitat is improved. Water conservation is increased, increasing vegetative production. Water quality is improved as 

the deep micro-depressions capture sediments, nutrients and manure. Over time, the micro-depressions become more nutrient rich than the micro-highs, further 

increasing plant species richness.

Feature Measure: Hours

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,774.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $138.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 6 $1,107.60

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 20 $441.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #36 - Development of Shallow Micro-Topographic Features with Normal Farming Equipment.

Scenario Description:

This typical scenario is installed on open non-wetlands. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase 

water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed to loosen the soil. Then the soil is excavated with normal farming equipment (e.g. tractor and box-blade) to a 

depth of 2-6 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a box-blade restores the original micro-topographic features (6' X 6' depressions and mounds) 

common to most landscapes and landforms prior to clearing, tilling, and annual mowing. Restoration of shallow but frequent micro-topographic features has been lost by 

the smoothing action of tillage, mowing and the original land-clearing. This scenario it typically implemented for ecosystem restoration projects such as prairie 

restoration and range-land restoration, and particularly on moderately well-drained soils. 

Before Situation:

Micro-topographic features have been eliminated by past conversion to agriculture and/or past cultural practices. This has resulted in the lack of micro-soil moisture 

gradients within the field. The opportunity for plant species richness and diversity is minimal. Water storage potential is absent. Water rapidly runs off the field after 

rains and snow melt, carrying nutrients, solids and surface organic materials. No micro-ponding sites are available for invertebrate use.

After Situation:

Shallow micro-depressions and mounds are numerous. This varied micro-topographic features provided varied moisture gradients required for high plant species richness 

and diversity. Wildlife habitat is improved. Water conservation is increased, increasing vegetative production. Water quality is improved as the micro depressions 

capture sediments, nutrients and manure. Over time, the micro-depressions become more nutrient rich than the micro-highs, further increasing plant species richness.

Feature Measure: hours of tractor use

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,083.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $54.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 20 $441.80

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #37 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, High Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where high intensity and 

complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two - four monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 

less than 8 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions (2 - 5 efforts) such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged 

fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires hand labor and light equipment, requiring a 2-person crew less than 1 day per effort.

Before Situation:

Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,999.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #38 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where native plant conditions (T&E plants) or wildlife have been identified as the 

resource concern, and where low intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are 

needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into 

nest boxs, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 8 hours labor per year.

Before Situation:

Rare or declining habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Rare and declining habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $584.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 1 $6.36

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1.5 $38.40

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #39 - Rare or Declining Habitat Monitoring and Management, Medium Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified related to rare or declining habitats, and 

where medium intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two or three monitoring efforts are needed and each 

requiring less than 2 people and less than 8 hours per effort. Two or three adaptive management efforts are required (such as cutting of limbs that impede monitoring 

efforts, replacing damaged fence markers, or other minor adaptive management activities). The adaptive mgmt requires hand labor and the occasional use of light 

equipment. A crew of 2 is needed for the hand labor efforts and the crew will require less than 16 total hours of labor per mgmt effort. Mowing of roads and trail is 

required to provide access for monitoring and management.

Before Situation:

Rare or declining habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Rare or declining habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,099.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 4 $25.44

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 5 $159.45

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #56 - Beaver Dam Analogues or Post-Assisted Log Structures

Scenario Description:

This scenario includes installation of low-tech woody structures (Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs) or Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS)) to facilitate process-based 

restoration in perennial, intermittent, or ephemeral streams and riparian areas. These simple structures are low, semi-permeable, and hand-built using native materials 

(wood, sod, etc.). Untreated wooden fence posts are added where necessary for extra stability. Structures are designed to be short-lived and used primarily as a temporary 

tool to promote natural process recovery. Structures mimic the function of natural beaver dams and wood accumulation in streams by reducing water velocities, raising 

water tables, enhancing floodplain connectivity, and inducing other dynamic ecological and hydrogeomorphic processes. Typically, complexes consisting of multiple 

structures within a reach are used to meet project objectives. Structures can be used on all land uses to address a variety of resource concerns and are strategically placed 

to meet specific purposes, such as, mesic and wetland vegetation expansion, floodplain development in incised channels, increased habitat complexity for fish and wildlife, 

and beaver re-establishment. Associated practices include: 528, 391, 644, 612, 382. Typical scenario includes 20 structures averaging 20 ft length each (total = 400 lin ft of 

structures). Crew of one biologist, one crew manager, and three laborers (one skilled).

Before Situation:

Degraded stream channel and associated riparian/mesic/wetland vegetation are impaired by lack of structural complexity, channel incision, reduced floodplain 

connectivity, or inadeqaute habitat features. Extent of potential riparian/mesic/wetland vegetation is reduced due to lack of floodplain inundation or low water table. 

Channel condition/complexity is insufficient to permit proper hydrologic function, vegetation maintenance/recovery, or to support desired fish and wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

Low-tech structures mimic and promote ecological and physical processes that foster recovery of streams, riparian areas, wet meadows, or aquatic ecosystems. Channel 

complexity is increased and condition improved by promoting riparian/mesic/wetland vegetation expansion, reconnecting floodplains, and increasing habitat structure for 

fish and wildlife. Additional treatments may be needed through time until ecosystem is self-sustaining.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,188.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 24 $152.64

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 12 $307.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 18 $329.40

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 48 $600.48

Portable Post Driver 2722 Gas or Hydraulic Powered Post Driver, Portable, <300 lbs, labor not 

included

Hours $17.49 48 $839.52

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 72 $2,298.24

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 60 $3,024.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 30 $3,235.20

Materials

Post, Wood, Untreated, 3-4 in. x 7 2721

ft.

Round Post, Wood, Untreated, 3-4 inch diameter x 7 feet Each $8.38 400 $3,352.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Natural Communities

Scenario: #106 - Rock Structure

Scenario Description:

A low cost, low risk, rock structure will be installed at the head of the gully to arrest the continued cutting of the gully uphill. The structure is designed to protect the soil 

surface from further erosion while dissipating water energy. Below the head cut structure a series of structures will be installed to reduce water velocity and cause 

deposition of sediments to heal the gully and reduce drainage from the adjacent upland area. This will reduce the loss of and restore mesic riparian/meadow habitats. 

Typical installation involves the installation of one structure to address head-cutting and three additional structures to reduce stream velocity and collect sediment. The 

head cut structure typically requires 1.5 cubic yards of rock. Typical sediment checks require 1.0 cubic yards of rock. This scenario addresses Soil Erosion, classic gully and 

inadequate fish and wildlife habitat.

Before Situation:

Head cutting is proceeding uphill creating a gully that serves as a drain to the adjacent habitat lowering the local water table, reducing the available moisture to the 

adjacent mesic plant communities. Mesic riparian/meadow habitats shift to more xeric habitats and the period of active growth is reduced.

After Situation:

Head cut is arrested, stopping the advance of the gully uphill and protecting mesic riparian/meadow habitats upstream. Additionally, sediment is collected, raising the 

base of the gully and restoring the hydrologic regime and mesic riparian/meadow habitats. Re-vegetation is generally via natural regeneration. Should additional revegetation be needed, use vegetation standards, 612, Tree and shrub establishment, 550, Range Planting, 342 Critical Area Treatment, and/or 420 Wildlife Habitat Planting 

as appropriate.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 4.50

Scenario Total Cost: $2,993.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $665.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Backhoe, 80 HP 926 Wheel mounted backhoe excavator with horsepower range of 60 to 90. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $66.81 8 $534.48

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Truck, dump, 8 CY 1401 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 12 ton or 8 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $55.75 8 $446.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 64 $1,528.32

Materials

Rock Riprap, graded, angular, 1200

material and shipping

Graded Rock Riprap for all gradation ranges. Includes materials and 

local delivery within 20 miles of quarry. Placement costs are not 

included.

Ton $37.15 4.5 $167.18
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #3 - Management and monitoring only, foregone income (FI)

Scenario Description:

Site management will include managing/monitoring the site to provide food and cover for wetland wildlife species on cropland. Annual vegetation (crops or other annual 

vegetation) will be allowed to establish and persist during critical nesting and brood rearing seasons and will remain standing (not harvested) until migratory species have 

left the site. The setting is on lands used for the production of crops where the slope gradient is less than two percent and soils are not excessivly drained. The Stateapproved habitat evaluation or appraisal found that a limiting factor for wetland wildlife is the absence of sufficient cover and food in the area. The manipulation of 

existing cover will be accomplished through mechanical methods to provide a diverse vegetation mosaic, within and adjacent to the existing wetland, addressing 

inadequate habitat for wetland wildlife. Where this occurs on cropped fields, annual crops will be lost for one growing season (foregone income is included).

Before Situation:

The site lacks sufficient and diverse cover and food needed for optimal wetland wildlife habitat or target species. Typically the site has been previously manipulated and 

utilized for agricultural. With the loss of abundant and diverse cover and food throughout the site, both plant and animal species that are dependent on these elements 

are no longer present, or are in decline, within the planning unit. 

After Situation:

Agricultural crop or annual vegetation has been allowed to persist providing needed food and cover for identified species. Crops and annual vegetation will not be 

harvested during the critical seasons as identified by the habitat evaluation. As a result of the installation, habitat needs have been adequately met.

Feature Measure: Wetland Wildlife Cover and Food

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,931.35

Scenario Cost/Unit: $293.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 10 $220.90

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 3.3 $1,163.18

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 3.3 $880.94

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 3.4 $666.33
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #11 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, High Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where high intensity and 

complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two - four monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 

less than 8 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions (2 - 5 efforts) such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged 

fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires hand labor and light equipment, requiring a 2-person crew less than 1 day per effort.

Before Situation:

Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,672.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $33.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 4 $527.00

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #12 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Monitoring and Management, Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to wetlands on landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where low 

intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 

people and 4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxs, replacing damaged fence 

markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 8 hours labor per year.

Before Situation:

Wetland wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Widlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $584.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 1 $6.36

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1.5 $38.40

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #13 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Medium Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to wetland areas located on all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and 

where medium intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two or three monitoring efforts are needed and each 

requiring less than 2 people and less than 8 hours per effort. Two or three adaptive management efforts are required (such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of 

birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures). The adaptive mgmt requires hand labor and the 

occasional use of light equipment. A crew of 2 is needed for the hand labor efforts and the crew will require less than 16 total hours of labor per mgmt effort. Mowing of 

roads and trail is required to provide access for monitoring and management.

Before Situation:

Wetland wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

wetland wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,099.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 4 $25.44

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 5 $159.45

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #26 - Establishment of seasonal wildlife forage or cover on non-cropland

Scenario Description:

The habitat assessment identifies the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat need will be met through the establishment 

of annual plants by planting of seed. The typical scenario will occur on areas supporting perinneal herbaceous vegetaion, not currently in cropland. Due to existing dense 

vegetation, these area will need to be mowed 2-3 weeks prior to disking (primarily disking), then followed by a light disking. Seed bed preparation will be furthered by 

firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. Mixed fertilizer is required to establish planted wildlife forage. A seedmix consisting of annuals is typical for this activity.

Before Situation:

The existing habitat has an excess of herbaceous perineal habitat suitable for cover, but is lacking high quality forage seasonal forage, or the cover conditions is too thick 

and establishement of annuals create a diverse cover condition for the target wildlife species.

After Situation:

The availability of high-quality seasonal forage for the target wildlife species is provided and target wildlife health is improved, and populations are increased.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,773.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $177.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 10 $220.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 60 $67.20

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #27 - Establishment of annuals for wildlife on cropland, without FI

Scenario Description:

The habitat assessment identified the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This identified habitat need will be met through the 

establishment of annual vegetation by planting of seed. This typical scenario is that this activity will occur on cropland, but outside of the normal cropping season. Thus, 

income will not be foregone. Seed bed preparation will be furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. The only fertilizer need is N as this is cropland and P 

and K levels are sufficient.

Before Situation:

Cropland that fails to provide adequate wildlife habitat (forage and/or cover) seasonally for the target wildlife species..

After Situation:

The availability of high-quality seasonal forage for the target wildlife species is provided and target wildlife health and populations are increased.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,223.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $122.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 60 $67.20

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #28 - Establishment of annual vegetation on cropland, with FI

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario is applied on cropped wetlands (cropland). The habitat assessment identified the lack of wildlife forage or cover during the same season of year as 

crops are grown. In response to the need to provide wetland dependent wildlife needed forage or cover during the cropping season, annual wildlife forages will be 

planted on cropland for one year, in lieu of the traditional cash crop. Seedbed preparation is limited to one light disking and cultipacking. The only fertilizer need is a light 

application of N as cropland P and K levels are sufficient. These wildlife forages and/or seasonal cover are planted in lieu of the cash crop, such as a corn and soybean 

rotation. Thus, income from the traditional cash crop will be foregone for the year.

Before Situation:

The existing habitat is cropland, lacking high quality forage for cover during the cropping season.

After Situation:

Annual wildlife forages are planted in lieu of a cash crop. Target wildlife health is improved and local populations are increased.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,298.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $429.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 5 $1,762.40

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 5 $1,334.75

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 40 $44.80

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #35 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Very-Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to wetlands within all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where 

very-low intensity and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less 

than 2 people and 4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxs, replacing damaged fence 

markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 16 hours of labor per year.

Before Situation:

Wetland wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of very-low intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Wetland wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of very- low intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $701.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 2 $12.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #37 - Development of Shallow Micro-Topographic Features with Normal Farming Equipment.

Scenario Description:

This typical scenario is installed on non-forested wetlands, including openlands prior to tree planting. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create 

micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and reduce run-off. The area is plowed to loosen the soil. Then the soil is excavated with normal farming 

equipment (e.g. tractor and box-blade) to a depth of 2-6 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a box-blade restores the original microtopographic features (6' X 6' depressions and mounds) common to most landscapes and landforms prior to clearing, tilling, and annual mowing. Restoration of shallow but 

frequent micro-topographic features has been lost by the smoothing action of tillage, mowing and the original land-clearing. This scenario it typically implemented for 

ecosystem restoration projects such as prairie restoration and range-land restoration, and particularly on moderately well-drained soils. 

Before Situation:

Micro-topographic features have been eliminated by past conversion to agriculture and/or past cultural practices. This has resulted in the lack of micro-soil moisture 

gradients within the field. The opportunity for plant species richness and diversity is minimal. Water storage potential is absent. Water rapidly runs off the field after 

rains and snow melt, carrying nutrients, solids and surface organic materials. No micro-ponding sites are available for invertebrate use.

After Situation:

Shallow micro-depressions and mounds are numerous. This varied micro-topographic features provided varied moisture gradients required for high plant species richness 

and diversity. Wildlife habitat is improved. Water conservation is increased, increasing vegetative production. Water quality is improved as the micro depressions 

capture sediments, nutrients and manure. Over time, the micro-depressions become more nutrient rich than the micro-highs, further increasing plant species richness.

Feature Measure: hours of tractor use

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,083.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $54.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 20 $441.80

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 6 $455.04

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #38 - Development of Deep Micro-Topographic Features with Heavy Equipment.

Scenario Description:

This typical scenario is installed on non-forested wetlands (or open land prior to tree planting), where micro-topographic features have been removed by past farming 

and/or ranching cultural practices. The purpose is to increase plant species richness and diversity, create micro-habitats for invertebrates, increase water infiltration and 

reduce run-off. The area is plowed 2 weeks prior to excavation to kill existing vegetation and allow for proper dirt work. Then the soil is excavated with track equipment 

(dozer) to a depth of 6-12 inches and immediately deposited. This lowering and raising of a dozer -blade restores the original deep micro-topographic features (10' X10' 

depressions and mounds) common to many landscapes and landforms prior to the lands conversion to agricultural lands. This scenario it typically implemented for 

ecosystem restoration projects such as wetland restoration (herbaceous or prior to planting of woody species), prairie restoration and range-land restoration. It is most 

commonly applied to well-drained soils as the purpose is for the micro-depression to pond water for short duration (less than 7 days).

Before Situation:

Micro-topographic features have been eliminated by past conversion to agriculture and/or past cultural practices. This has resulted in the lack of micro-soil moisture 

gradients within the field. The opportunity for plant species richness and diversity is minimal. Water storage potential is absent. Water rapidly runs off the field after 

rains and snow melt, carrying nutrients, solids and surface organic materials. No micro-ponding sites are available aquatic dependent invertebrates. Vertebrate wildlife 

habitat is lacking diversity.

After Situation:

Deep (6' - 12' depth) micro-depressions and mounds are numerous. These varied micro-topographic features provide varied moisture gradients required for development 

of high plant species richness and diversity. Wildlife habitat is improved. Water conservation is increased, increasing vegetative production. Water quality is improved as 

the deep micro-depressions capture sediments, nutrients and manure. Over time, the micro-depressions become more nutrient rich than the micro-highs, further 

increasing plant species richness.

Feature Measure: Hours

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,774.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $138.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 6 $1,107.60

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 20 $441.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #45 - Management and Monitoring on Idled Cropland for Wetland Wildlife, foregone income - Level 1 (Year 2-5)

Scenario Description:

This scenario addresses wildlife habitat management for wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland fields which are valuable source of forage and cover for 

many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird species. The cession of cropping and maintenance of hydrology will provide adequate forage and cover in areas where normal 

cropland production restricts the growth of cover and forage sources. Where this occurs on cropped fields, annual crops will be lost for one growing season (foregone 

income is included).

Before Situation:

Setting is any prairie pothole. The wetlands must be wholly or partially in cropland. These wetlands are currently cropped, and hydrology has or could be diverted from the 

wetland by way of tiling, field or road ditching, diking or any other feature that removes wetland hydrology. These wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland 

fields have the potential to produce a significant amount of moist soil plants which are valuable source of forage and cover for many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird 

species. Under normal cropland production, the native vegetation is restricted on these sites through mechanical and/or chemical control. The current system provides 

little to no wildlife habitat with habitat limiting factors such as quality, quantity and continuity of forage, cover, shelter and space being identified. Drainage could also 

result in inadequate wildlife water and inadequate habitat.

After Situation:

The planning unit is adequately covered with permanent and/or annual (non-persistent) vegetation. The cession of cropping and maintenance of hydrology provides 

adequate forage and cover in areas where normal cropland production restricts the growth of cover and forage sources. Monitoring assures hydrology is intact and 

provides wildlife water and habitat. Acres will be assessed and score 0.5 or greater as both Wetlands and Cropland on the Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guide. Monitoring 

will be used to determine if the hydrology remains intact and cover is adequate and free of invasive weed species. Examples of monitoring include but are not limited to: 

photo points with comparisons to surrounding wetlands, use documentation by livestock, regeneration or breeding success, completing an annual management records 

log, documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments.

Feature Measure: Area idled from crop production to 

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $585.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $292.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Foregone Income

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 1 $195.98

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #46 - Idling Cropland for Wetland Wildlife - Level 2

Scenario Description:

This scenario addresses wildlife habitat management for wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland fields which are valuable source of forage and cover for 

many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird species. The cession of cropping and maintenance of hydrology will provide adequate forage and cover in areas where normal 

cropland production restricts the growth of cover and forage sources. Where this occurs on cropped fields, annual crops will be lost for one growing season (foregone 

income is included).

Before Situation:

Setting is any wetland being 2 acres or less on the National Wetland Inventory with fully intact hydrology. The wetlands must be wholly or partially in cropland. These 

wetlands are currently cropped, and hydrology could be diverted from the wetland by way of tiling, field or road ditching, diking or any other feature that removes 

wetland hydrology. These wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland fields have the potential to produce a significant amount of moist soil plants which are 

valuable source of forage and cover for many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird species. Under normal cropland production, the native vegetation is restricted on 

these sites through mechanical and/or chemical control. The current system provides little to no wildlife habitat with habitat limiting factors such as quality, quantity and 

continuity of forage, cover, shelter and space being identified. Drainage could also result in inadequate wildlife water and inadequate habitat.

After Situation:

The planning unit is adequately covered with annual (non-persistent) vegetation. The cession of cropping and maintenance of hydrology provides adequate forage and 

cover in areas where normal cropland production restricts the growth of cover and forage sources. Monitoring assures hydrology is intact and provides wildlife water and 

habitat. Acres will be assessed and score 0.5 or greater as both Wetlands and Cropland on the Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guide. Monitoring will be used to determine if 

the hydrology remains intact and cover is adequate and free of invasive weed species. Examples of monitoring include but are not limited to: photo points with 

comparisons to surrounding wetlands, use documentation by livestock, regeneration or breeding success, completing an annual management records log, documenting 

wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments.

Feature Measure: Area idled from crop production to 

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $599.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $299.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 2 $29.08

Foregone Income

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 1 $195.98

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84
Practice: 644 - Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #47 - Monitoring and Management - Level 3

Scenario Description:

This scenario applies to cropped wetlands, two acres or less in size identified on the National Wetland Inventory, with intact hydrology, currently cropped (typically in a 

corn-wheat-soybean rotation) and lacking adequate food and cover for migratory water fowl during critical periods. The inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern can 

be addressed by allowing EXISTING annual vegetation (crops or other annual vegetation) to establish and persist during critical nesting and brood rearing seasons. Annual 

crops may be lost for one growing season.

Before Situation:

Existing habitat is a cropped wetland, lacking wildlife food and cover during the cropping season. Normal seeding and/or harvest occurs about 30% of the time. Excess 

wetness during the early planting season in the remaining years often cause ag producers to seed these small areas after the initial seeding date resulting in soil 

compaction, reduced hydrology, and limited crop success. As these areas are intermingled with upland, managing as a separate land use is unfeasible. Monitoring (with 

supporting photo documentation) and a State-approved Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guide confirms an inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern exists.

After Situation:

Agricultural crop or annual vegetation will be allowed to persist providing food and cover essential for migratory birds. Crops and annual vegetation will not be harvested 

during the primary nesting season as identified by the habitat evaluation guide. This allows for successful nesting and brood rearing. The Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Guide 

documents an increase in planning criteria (and at a minimum meet planning criteria) for the inadequate wildlife habitat resource concern. Monitoring (with supporting 

photo documentation) demonstrates wildlife habitat has been improved to levels consistent with management goals/objectives, as well as observed use of the wetland 

habitat by wildlife.

Feature Measure: NWI for sizing

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $215.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.7 $186.87

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.7 $137.19

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #2 - Greater Prairie Chicken Habitat Development 

Scenario Description:

Field size is 640 acres. Each acre in the treatment unit will be burned only once in three years. Each acre in treatment unit will be burned once within the three year 

period. This is a monitoring for GPC habitat conditions not a burning scenario. Habitat conditions will be monitored 4 times a year and vegetative data will be collected 

using percent ground cover within a 30 foot radius plot at 10 locations.

Before Situation:

The grasslands of the Flint Hills region in Kansas, and the area east thereof, are commonly used for early intensive stocking. Annual spring burning of these native warm 

season range units is common for animal performance benefits. This cultural burning practice does not leave adequate nesting habitat for greater prairie-chicken. 

Typically the entire acreage is burned annually. 

After Situation:

To benefit air quality, plant health and vigor and wildlife habitat, each acre will be burned only once in a three year period. Treatment units are range, pasture, or grazed 

forest. Nesting habitat for GPC will be developed through limiting burning, and improving habitat based on data collected at the 10 monitoring sites.

Feature Measure: Area monitored

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,663.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 100 $1,830.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #4 - Wildlife Habitat Enhancement - Former Cropland (FI) 

Scenario Description:

Setting is cropland with the potential to provide habitat for species of plants and animals identified as Rare and Declining and the habitat potential is not currently being 

captured. The identified habitat limiting factors can be restored, enhanced or created, with the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting 

and facilitating practices. Monitoring will be used to determine if the conservation system meets or exceeds the minimum planning criteria for the targeted wildlife. 

Management will be implemented based on the findings of the habitat assessment and monitoring. Habitat management and monitoring needed to treat the resource 

concerns requires no training, no qualitative data assessment, no water quality monitoring and is low in complexity and intensity. Examples of prescribed monitoring, 

include but are not limited to: photo points taken, livestock utlization records, regeneration/breeding success, completing an annual management records log, 

documenting wildlife sightings, documenting location and species of invasive plants and condition of vegetative and structural treatments. The planner will specify 

locations and identify the methods to the customer who will implement the monitoring and management plan. Includes foregone income. Setting is cropland that will be 

managed to benefit rare and declining habitats through deferral or seeding to permanent or annual vegetation. 

Before Situation:

Existing cropland production of a soybean, corn, and wheat rotation on cropped fields. This creates a degraded plant condition which results in inadequate habitat for fish 

and wildlife resulting in low use of the area by target species identified as Rare and Declining and associated species. 

After Situation:

Based on the results of a State-approved upland wildlife habitat assessment process, the application of habitat management efforts and prescribed monitoring have been 

implemented. With the application of this practice alone, or in combination with other supporting and facilitating practices, the inadequate habitat conditions have been 

addressed. Monitoring will highlight the benefits of the habitat treatment efforts.

Feature Measure: Acres Managed and Monitored

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $27,273.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $272.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 33.3 $11,737.58

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 33.3 $8,889.44

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 33.4 $6,545.73

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #5 - Honeybee Habitat Single Species Mix with Monitoring and Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

Setting is cropland with the potential to provide foraging habitat for European honey bees and the decision of the land user is to forgo planting of corn, soybeans or wheat 

for this year to benefit the bee. Safe honey bee forage will be provided during the summer under this scenario. This scenario will include the planting of a single species 

annual grass or legume for honey bee forage. Monitoring will be used to determine if the goal of providing safe forage for the honey bee is being met. Monitoring will 

involve measuring the use of different flowering species by honey bees and native pollinators, per NRCS monitoring guidelines.

Before Situation:

Corn, soybeans and wheat fields planted continuously or in rotation with other grain crops. Insects, fungi and flowering weeds are managed with the use of periodic 

application of pesticides, without regard to the honey bee. Minimal forage and cover habit is available to native pollinators and other wildlife.

After Situation:

In lieu of planting the area to grain, this area will be planted to a single species annual for honey bee forage this year. Application of pesticides will not be applied during 

the flowering season. These areas will provide safe honey bee forage for a maximum period of time during the growing season, resulting in improved hive health and 

improved forage and cover habitat for associated wildlife. Monitoring data is used to assist in adaptive management decisions such as pesticide spraying timing and 

termination of planting following flowering to maximize benefits to the honeybee and minimize risks to the health of the bee associated with pesticide applications.

Feature Measure: Acres Managed and Monitored

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $30,521.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $381.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 26.7 $9,411.22

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 26.7 $7,127.57

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 26.6 $5,213.07

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 38 $1,212.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 18 $907.20

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 80 $4,908.80
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #6 - Honeybee Habitat Multi Species Mix with Monitoring and Foregone Income

Scenario Description:

Setting is cropland with the potential to provide foraging habitat for European honey bees and the decision of the land user is to forgo planting of corn, soybeans or wheat 

for this year to benefit the bee. Safe honey bee forage will be provided during the summer under this scenario. This scenario will include the planting of a multi-specie 

annual mixture for honey bee forage. Monitoring will be used to determine if the goal of providing safe forage for the honey bee is being met. Monitoring will involve 

measuring the use of different flowering species by honey bees and native pollinators, per NRCS monitoring guidelines.

Before Situation:

Corn, soybeans and wheat fields planted continuously or in rotation with other grain crops. Insects, fungi and flowering weeds are managed with the use of periodic 

application of pesticides, without regard to the honey bee. Minimal forage and cover habit is available to native pollinators and other wildlife.

After Situation:

In lieu of planting the area to grain, this area will be planted to a mixture of multi species annuals for honey bee forage this year. Application of pesticides will not be 

applied during the flowering season. These area will provide safe honey bee forage for a maximum period of time during the growing season, resulting in improved hive 

health and improved forage and cover habitat for associated wildlife. Monitoring data is used to assist in adaptive management decisions such as pesticide spraying 

timing and termination of planting following flowering to maximize benefits to the honeybee and minimize risks to the health of the bee associated with pesticide 

applications.

Feature Measure: Acres Managed and Monitored

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $30,521.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $381.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 80 $1,740.80

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 26.7 $9,411.22

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 26.7 $7,127.57

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 26.6 $5,213.07

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 38 $1,212.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 18 $907.20

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 80 $4,908.80
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #7 - Honeybee Monitoring

Scenario Description:

Setting is land with cover that has the potential to provide foraging habitat for European honey bees. Safe honey bee forage will be provided and managed throughout 

the summer. Monitoring will be used to determine if the goal of providing safe forage for the honey bee is being met. Monitoring will involve measuring the use of 

different flowering species by honey bees and native polinators, per NRCS monitoring guidelines.

Before Situation:

Insects, fungi and flowering weeds are managed with the use of periodic application of pesticides, without regard to the honey bee. Minimal forage and cover habit is 

available to native pollinators and other wildlife.

After Situation:

This area will be managed honey bee forage. Application of pesticides will not be applied during the flowering season. These area will provide safe honey bee forage for a 

maximum period of time during the growing season, resulting in improved hive health and improved forage and cover habitat for associated wildlife. Monitoring data is 

used to assist in adaptive management decisions such as pesticide spraying timing and termination of planting following flowering to maximize benefits to the honeybee 

and minimize risks to the health of the bee associated with pesticide applications.

Feature Measure: Acres Managed and Monitored

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,120.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $26.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 38 $1,212.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 18 $907.20
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #32 - Establishment of seasonal wildlife forage or cover on cropland, no FI

Scenario Description:

This typical scenario occurs on cropland. The habitat assessment identified the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat 

need will be met through the establishment of annual food plants or cover plants by planting of seed. The typical scenario for seasonal forage or cover will be established 

outside of crop season, thus FI is not needed. Seedbed preparation (light tillage) will be furthered by firming the seed bed by cultipacking the site. The only fertilizer need 

is N as this is cropland and P and K levels are sufficient. Cropland, so mobilization of equipment not needed.

Before Situation:

Cropland that fails to provided food or cover for target species at the proper location and season to meet the needs of wildlife.

After Situation:

The availability of high-quality seasonal forage or seasonal cover for the target wildlife species is provided. Target wildlife health is improved and populations are 

increased.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,223.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $122.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 60 $67.20

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #33 - Establishment of seasonal forage or cover for wildlife on cropland, with FI

Scenario Description:

The habitat assessment identified the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat needs will be met through the 

establishment of annuals by planting of seed. The typical scenario is for cropland. Seed bed preparation is limited to one light disking, furthered by firming the seed bed 

by cultipacking the site. The only fertilizer need is N as this is cropland and P and K levels are sufficient. These wildlife forages or seasonal cover will be available for 

wildlife during the cropping season, and are in lieu of the cash crops typically planted on the field. Thus, income from the cash crop will be foregone for a year.

Before Situation:

Cropland does not provide forage or cover needed for wildlife during the season on dearth.

After Situation:

Annual wildlife forages are planted in lieu of a cash crop. Target wildlife health is improved and populations are increased.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,217.75

Scenario Cost/Unit: $421.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 10 $145.40

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 5 $1,762.40

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 5 $1,334.75

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 60 $67.20

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #56 - Establishment of seasonal forage or cover for wildlife on non-cropland.

Scenario Description:

The habitat assessment identifies the need to provide seasonal forage or cover for target wildlife species or guild. This habitat need will be met through the establishment 

of annual plants by planting of seed. The typical scenario is that this activity will occur on herbaceous areas, not currently in cropland. Due to existing dense vegetation, 

these area will need to be mowed 2-3 weeks prior to disking (primarily disking), then followed by a light disking. Seed bed preparation will be furthered by firming the 

seed bed by cultipacking the site. Mixed fertilizer is required to establish planted wildlife seasonal forage or seasonal cover..

Before Situation:

The existing habitat has an excess of herbaceous perineal habitat, but is lacking high-quality seasonal forage, or the existing cover is too dense and cover conditions found 

in annual plant communities are absent.

After Situation:

The availability of high-quality seasonal forage, or cover condition common in annual plant communities is provided and target wildlife health and populations are 

increased.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,818.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $181.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 20 $290.80

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 10 $220.90

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 10 $102.80

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Sulfate 70 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Sulfate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $1.12 100 $112.00

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 60 $47.40

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 60 $40.80

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #306 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Very-Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where very-low intensity 

and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 

4 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxs, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning 

of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 16 hours of labor per year.

Before Situation:

Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of very-low intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Widlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of very- low intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $701.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 2 $12.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #307 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Low Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where low intensity and 

complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Only 1-2 monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 4 

hours per effort. The adaptive management actions such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxs, replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning 

of nest structures and debris around other structures requires only hand labor and less than 8 hours labor per year.

Before Situation:

Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Widlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of low intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $584.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 1 $6.36

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1.5 $38.40

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #308 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, Medium Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where medium intensity 

and complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two or three monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people 

and less than 8 hours per effort. Two or three adaptive management efforts are required (such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, 

replacing damaged fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures). The adaptive mgmt requires hand labor and the occasional use of light 

equipment. A crew of 2 is needed for the hand labor efforts and the crew will require less than 16 total hours of labor per mgmt effort. Mowing of roads and trail is 

required to provide access for monitoring and management.

Before Situation:

Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of medium intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,099.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 4 $25.44

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 5 $159.45

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #309 - Habitat Monitoring and Management, High Intensity and Complexity

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to all landuse types including those with wildlife as a modifier, where any resource concern is identified for wildlife, and where high intensity and 

complexity of monitoring or management will treat the identified resource concern. Two - four monitoring efforts are needed and each requiring less than 2 people and 

less than 8 hours per effort. The adaptive management actions (2 - 5 efforts) such as cutting of limbs that are impeding access of birds into nest boxes, replacing damaged 

fence markers, cleaning of nest structures and debris around other structures requires hand labor and light equipment, requiring a 2-person crew less than 1 day per effort.

Before Situation:

Wildlife habitat is deficient due to the absence of annual monitoring and adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity. 

After Situation:

Wildlife habitat is improved by implementation of annual adaptive management actions of high intensity and complexity. 

Feature Measure: Monitoring efforts and adaptive m

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,672.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $33.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 4 $527.00

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #310 - Interseeding Milkweed Into Existing Habitat

Scenario Description:

Inter-seeding milkweed into an existing stand of vegetation that has sufficient nectar plant richness and distribution, but lacks reproductive habitat (milkweed is lacking). 

Existing vegetation will be treated with herbicides in strips. Entire area will be burned or mowed prior to application of herbicides to 6-10 foot wide strips. Drilling of 

milkweed will be in the treated (herbicide strips). Seeding in strips will be 25% of the field.

Before Situation:

An open field that may support enough forb species richness, abundance and distribution to provide good or excellent monarch nectaring habitat, but milkweed is lacking. 

These conditions fail to meet the limiting factor for monarchs as required to meet Upland Wildlife Habitat (654) as reproductive habitat is identified as the limiting factor 

for this species. Application of the Monarch WHEG finds the habitat quality rating to be poor or fair.

After Situation:

The open field supports good or excellent monarch reproductive habitat. Application of the Monarch WHEG finds the habitat quality rating to be good or excellent.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $886.59

Scenario Cost/Unit: $177.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 5 $33.95

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 5 $136.60

Seeding Operation, No Till/Strip 1230

Till Planter

No Till/Strip Till row planters for seeding. Includes all costs for 

equipment, power unit, and labor.

Acres $22.59 5 $112.95

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1.25 $15.83

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1.25 $587.26
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #349 - Livestock Exclusion for Widlife

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied to grazed Pasture, Range, Forest NRCS Land Uses where wildlife habitat is identified as a resource concern. Livestock are excluded from the 

planning unit for at least a year to allow the existing plant community sufficient time to respond favorably, creating improved wildlife habitat vegetative conditions. In 

addition to habitat vegetative condition, livestock may be excluded to reduce interactions between livestock and associated livestock management activities, and wildlife 

species that are particularly sensitive to such interactions. This scenario is for livestock exclusion and not seasonal livestock deferment in support of Prescribed Grazing 

(Code 528). The area is monitored per the State developed Livestock Exclusion for Wildlife Habitat Implementation Requirement document. Monitoring data is used to 

trigger adaptive wildlife habitat management actions, as provided in the implementation requirements document.

Before Situation:

The vegetation has been grazed at levels that reduce the functional value (e.g. plant community structure, diversity and richness) of the area for wildlife as identified by 

NRCS, or the livestock and accompanying livestock management activities create stress to wildlife species particularly sensitive to such activities.

After Situation:

The exclusion of livestock improves habitat conditions to the benefit of target wildlife species. Livestock exclusion, habitat or livestock exclusion monitoring, and resulting 

management actions has maximized the benefits of excluding livestock from the area. If fencing is required to exclude livestock, it will be planned and applied according to 

Fence (Code 382). Other associated practices might be Access Control (Code 472), Brush Management (Code 314), Herbaceous Weed Control (Code 315), Prescribed 

Burning (Code 338), and Structures for Wildlife (Code 649). The agricultural producer incurs a loss in income on the site, due to livestock exclusion.

Feature Measure: Acres excluded

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,776.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $44.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 50 $1,585.00

Month

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52
Practice: 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

Scenario: #350 - Delayed Mowing on Hay Fields to Meet Life History Requirements

Scenario Description:

This scenario is applied on currently well-maintained hay fields (cropland) to protect field-nesting birds and other wildlife from mowing equipment and subsequent loss of 

cover. Maintained hay fields contain high quality forage grasses including orchard grass, timothy, and fescue. Some hay fields may also contain legumes, such as alfalfa or 

clover. Hay fields are mowed using a sickle bar or disc mower. When hay fields are mowed during critical seasons (e.g. primary nesting season), wildlife (e.g. birds, bees, 

and turtles) can be injured from mowing equipment or nests are exposed to predation. A wildlife habitat evaluation (WHEG) indicates that the timing and/or method of 

mowing is detrimental to the habitat for target species. This practice scenario involves delaying mowing to avoid those critical seasons. Examples include (1) delayed 

mowing until August 1 or (2) in suitable areas a 65-day delayed second cut following a first cut that occurs before the primary nesting season. When mowing is delayed 

the nutritional content and digestibility of forage is significantly reduced and often the crop loses most value as livestock feed resulting in a loss of income for the 

agricultural producer. Over time, this management strategy will degrade agricultural crop (hay) value of the plant community mildly to significantly. However, it will 

provide valuable food and cover for wildlife.

Before Situation:

The site is a productive hay field dominated by cool or warm season forage grasses. The producer receives income from harvesting and selling quality hay. Wildlife (e.g. 

birds, bees, and turtles) are injured or killed during mowing operations and cover habitat is removed during critical seasons.

After Situation:

A wildlife habitat evaluation (WHEG) indicates that habitat degradation is addressed by the altered timing and method of harvest. Wildlife injury is reduced, and suitable 

cover is maintained because mowing operations are delayed. The hay field vegetative species composition transforms resulting in a greater variety of species. This change 

creates more structural diversity and provides valuable cover and forage for wildlife. The delay in mowing operations results in a loss of forage production quantity and 

quality as the field transitions towards more perennial broad leaf plants that are less valuable for hay production. The agricultural producer incurs a loss in income due to 

the delayed harvest beyond what is optimum for the forage.

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,874.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $187.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 4 $127.56

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Foregone Income

FI, Hay, General Grass 2122 General Grass Hay is Primary Land Use Ton $49.18 30 $1,475.40

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56
Practice: 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

Scenario: #1 - Shallow Water Management-Low Level

Scenario Description:

This scenario addresses inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife on marginal cropland or hayland, pasture or rangeland. The resource concern is addressed by providing 

shallow water habitat for wildlife such as shorebirds, waterfowl, wading birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and other species that require shallow water or 

exposed mud flats for at least part of their life cycle. Sites are flooded up to a depth of 18' with an average depth of 9'. Water is provided by natural flooding and/or 

precipitation.

Before Situation:

There is inadequate habitat to provide optimum resting, nesting, and feeding habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, 

invertebrates, etc.).

After Situation:

A single area or series of shallow water areas that are managed per standard and specification for target species or guild. Water levels are regulated to maintain 

temporary wildlife habitat. Timing and duration of flooding and de-watering is dependent on specific species requirements. Water is generally regulated by water control 

structure in area to be flooded. Flooded sites vary from mudflats to water depths of 18' with an average depth of 9'. The hydrologic conditions of ponding and saturation 

(frequency, depth, duration, timing) provides optimum seasonal habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, invertebrates, etc.). 

If needed and dikes or water control structures are not currently present on the fields planned to be flooded, these practices may be planned for the same fields and cost 

shared under Dike (356) and Structure for Water Control (587). Depending on local conditions, other Conservation Practices may also be required.

Feature Measure: Acre of shallow water

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $164.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $164.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76
Practice: 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

Scenario: #2 - Shallow Water Management, High Level

Scenario Description:

This scenario addresses inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife on marginal cropland or hayland, pasture or rangeland. The resource concern is addressed by providing 

shallow water habitat for wildlife such as shorebirds, waterfowl, wading birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and other species that require shallow water or 

exposed mud flats for at least part of their life cycle. Sites are flooded up to a depth of 18' with an average depth of 9'. Monitoring and adaptive management 

accomplished with water control structures is used to meet very specific conditions needed to address previously identified degraded plant conditions or inadequate 

habitat for fish and/or wildlife. This high-level managmenet is applied to lands used for crop, pasture, hay, forests or wildlife lands where target flora and fauna have been 

identified as a primary concern. Loss of some level of crop, forage, hay or forest products may occur depending on site specific conditions.

Before Situation:

There is inadequate habitat to provide optimum resting, nesting, and feeding habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, 

invertebrates, etc.). The site may not be subject to frequent natural flooding and water may need to be pumped or directed to the site. The potential benefits to target 

fauna and flora is (are) not being captured. The pumping of water and intensive managment of seasonal water, coupled with monitoring, adaptive managment from 

highly trained individuals, will fully address the identifed degraded plant conditions and/or inadequate habitat for fish and/or wildlife.

After Situation:

A single area or series of shallow water areas that are managed per standard and specification for target species or guild. Water levels are regulated to maintain 

temporary wildlife habitat. Timing and duration of flooding and de-watering is dependent on specific species requirements. Water is generally regulated by water control 

structure in area to be flooded but also includes supplying supplemental water from pumping or other means. Flooded sites vary from mudflats to water depths of 18' 

with an average depth of 9'. The hydrologic conditions of ponding and saturation (frequency, depth, duration, timing) provides optimum seasonal habitat for waterfowl, 

shorebirds, and other wildlife (amphibians, reptiles, mammals, invertebrates, etc.). If needed and dikes or water control structures are not currently present on the fields 

planned to be flooded, these practices may be planned for the same fields and cost shared under Dike (356) and Structure for Water Control (587). If a natural water 

source (i.e. precipitation or flooding) is not available or adequate, Pumping Plant (533) may be cost shared to provide a water source. Depending on local conditions, 

other Conservation Practices may also be required.

Feature Measure: Acre of shallow water

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $349.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $349.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Water management, Flooding & 969

dewatering

Includes equipment and power unit. Labor not included. Acre Feet $214.90 0.75 $161.18

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64
Practice: 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development-Mgt

Scenario: #1 - Mowing

Scenario Description:

This scenario addresses inadequate habitat for fish and wildlife where succession is set back by mowing short, herbaceous vegetation prior to using another treatment, to 

create early successional habitat (disking, herbicide application, etc.). Mowing can be used to increase structural diversity by creating areas of shorter vegetation 

preferred by some species or during certain life stages of species. The typical setting for this scenario is at the edge of crop fields, in pastures, at the edge of woodlands or 

brushy areas, and in odd areas such as pivot corners. Where additional chemical control of weeds, including invasives grasses, is required to reduce competition for the 

desired plant community, conservation practice 315, herbaceous weed control, should be used. Where the seedbank is inadequate for natural regeneration and seeding is 

required, use conservation practice 327, Conservation Cover, or 550, Range Planting. Where the need is to create early successional habitat within or at the edge of a 

woodland or forest use conservation practice 666, forest stand improvement, to remove trees. 

Before Situation:

The site is static or trending to a later successional plant community. The disturbance regime to maintain an earlier successional plant community is lacking. Pastures are 

often monotypic, lacking in diversity. Competition for sunlight from dense grass stands prevents seedling establishment. Stands are often dense and inhibit the 

movements of young wildlife such as game bird chicks. Area lacks diversity in the height of vegetation.

After Situation:

Early successsional habitat created or maintained. Mowing has provided more sunlight for forb establishment or has prepared the site for another treatment (disking, 

herbicide application, etc.). Typically, mowing, by itself, is not an effective tool for the creation of early successional habitat unless the site already contains features such 

as bare ground, low litter, above average diversity of forbs, etc. The heterogeneity of the habitat structure has been increased. 

Feature Measure: width and length of treated area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $251.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70
Practice: 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development-Mgt

Scenario: #2 - Disking

Scenario Description:

This practice addresses inadequate wildlife habitat for species requiring early successional habitat. This scenario provides early successional habitat by setting back 

succession and manipulating species composition by disking vegetation and creating bare ground. The typical setting for this scenario is at the edge of crop fields, in 

pastures, and in odd areas such as pivot corners. This scenario is applicable nationwide. Where the management of woody plants is required to create or maintain early 

successional habitat, conservation practice 314, brush management, or 666, forest stand improvement, should be used. Where chemical control of weeds, including 

invasives, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community, conservation practice 315, herbaceous weed control, should be used. Where the seedbank is 

inadequate for natural regeneration and planting is required, use conservation practice 550, range seeding, or 327, Conservation Cover. Where the need is to create early 

successional habitat within or at the edge of woodland or forest, use conservation practice 666, forest stand improvement, to remove trees. 

Before Situation:

The site is static or trending to higher successional plant species. The disturbance regime to maintain a lower successional stage is lacking. Pastures are often monotypic, 

lacking in diversity. Bare ground for seedling establishment is absent. Stands are often dense and inhibit the movements of younger wildlife species such as game bird 

chicks. 

After Situation:

The application of this scenario improves wildlife habitat for species requiring early successional plant communities by reducing competition and creating bare ground for 

the establishment of early successional plants. Additionally, brood rearing habitat is improved both by the resultant food resources and the increased openess of the plant 

community that allows chicks to negotiate the terrain and exploit those food resources. 

Feature Measure: width and length of treated area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $662.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $33.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 30 $662.70
Practice: 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development-Mgt

Scenario: #3 - Chemical

Scenario Description:

This practice addresses inadequate wildlife habitat for species requiring early successional habitat. This scenario provides early successional habitat by setting back 

succession and manipulating species composition by disking vegetation and creating bare ground. The typical setting for this scenario is at the edge of crop fields, in 

pastures, and in odd areas such as pivot corners. This scenario is applicable nationwide. Where the management of woody plants is required to create or maintain early 

successional habitat, conservation practice 314, brush management, or 666, forest stand improvement, should be used. Where chemical control of weeds, including 

invasives, is required to reduce competition for the desired plant community, conservation practice 315, herbaceous weed control, should be used. Where the seedbank is 

inadequate for natural regeneration and planting is required, use conservation practice 550, range seeding, or 327, Conservation Cover. Where the need is to create early 

successional habitat within or at the edge of woodland or forest, use conservation practice 666, forest stand improvement, to remove trees. 

Before Situation:

The site is static or trending to higher successional plant species. The disturbance regime to maintain a lower successional stage is lacking. Pastures are often monotypic, 

lacking in diversity. Bare ground for seedling establishment is absent. Stands are often dense and inhibit the movements of younger wildlife species such as game bird 

chicks. The site may need to be 'pre-treated' with mowing or a prescribed burn (338) in order to make the herbicide more effective. 

After Situation:

The application of this scenario improves wildlife habitat for species requiring early successional plant communities by reducing competition and creating bare ground for 

the establishment of early successional plants. Additionally, brood rearing habitat is improved both by the resultant food resources and the increased openess of the plant 

community that allows chicks to negotiate the terrain and exploit those food resources. 

Feature Measure: width and length of treated area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $498.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 20 $253.20
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #5 - Escape Ramp

Scenario Description:

Retrofit an existing watering trough/tank with an appropriately designed and installed wildlife escape ramp to reduce wildlife mortality and maintain water quality within 

the watering facility. The typical size range for this scenario is 4 watering facilities retrofitted to include an escape ramp (2 ramps per tank).

Before Situation:

Existing watering facilities lack escape potential for wildlife. This results in death of the small wildlife accessing the facility for water, and resulting poor water quality as 

the animal decays.

After Situation:

Watering facilities provide wildlife safe access. Water quality is improved within the watering facility and wildlife mortality is reduced.

Feature Measure: Each Ramp

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 8.00

Scenario Total Cost: $729.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $91.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Materials

Wildlife Escape Ramp 242 Pool size 15' x 30', for small mammals less than one pound. Each $76.20 8 $609.60
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #6 - Fence Markers, Vinyl Undersill 

Scenario Description:

Existing fences are retrofitted with vinyl markers that increase wire visibility and reduce mortality due to collision for wildlife species of concern. Markers are installed on 

the top and third wires according to state standards. Scenario is typically implemented along fences in potential high risk areas (red areas in SGI Fence Collision Risk 

Model) or where a known problem exists. The typical size range for this scenario is 1 mile of fence.

Before Situation:

Wire fences located in high risk areas pose a collision threat to wildlife of special concern. 

After Situation:

Fence related mortality of species of special concern is reduced.

Feature Measure: feet of fence marked

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 5,280.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,245.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Vinyl Undersill Strips 241 Marking material using the undersill strips of vinyl siding. Priced per 

foot of fence per each wire. Materials only.

Feet $0.11 10560 $1,161.60
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #7 - Brush Pile - Small

Scenario Description:

Small brush piles are created to provide shrubby/woody escape cover for wildlife. Pushing or cutting select small trees and placement in selected locations to provide 

wildlife cover. Typical scenario of 10' x 20' area for structure covered by interlocking limbs of trees less than 12 inches in diameter. 

Before Situation:

The existing habitat lacks escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover.

After Situation:

Small brush piles provide needed escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover for targeted wildlife species.

Feature Measure: brush piles 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $44.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $44.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 0.5 $28.71

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 0.5 $15.57
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #8 - Brush Pile - Large

Scenario Description:

Downed tree structures are created to provide shrubby/woody escape cover for wildlife. Existing sod will be killed prior to placement of tree structures. Felling of select 

trees and placement in selected locations to provide wildlife cover. Typical scenario of 30' x 50' area for structure covered by interlocking limbs of trees at least 12' in 

diameter. 

Before Situation:

The existing habitat lacks escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover.

After Situation:

Large brush piles provide needed escape, ground nesting and safe loafing cover for targeted wildlife species.

Feature Measure: brush piles 

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $166.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $166.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 1 $57.42

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 1 $6.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #47 - Perch Deterrent

Scenario Description:

Existing structures or fabricated windbreaks are retrofitted with perch deterrents that decrease areas for predator perches. Decrease mortality of wildlife species of 

concern. Perch deterrent are installed on top of structures or on top of fabricated windbreak. Scenario is typically implemented on structures in priority areas for Sage 

Grouse.

Before Situation:

Structures and fabricated windbreaks create perches for predators that target wildlife species of concern.

After Situation:

Predator threat for mortality of the special species of concern is reduced.

Feature Measure: Linear Feet

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,685.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Predator Guard 1461 Predator guards (i.e. stove pipes, cone, hole guard, etc.) for habitat 

boxes. Materials only. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $50.93 15 $763.95

Lumber, planks, posts and 1612

timbers, untreated, rot resistant

Untreated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches, milled from rot resistant species such as cedar. Includes lumber 

and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $4.84 160 $774.40
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #51 - Nesting Box, Large

Scenario Description:

A structure is provided to support the nesting and rearing of larger targeted species such as waterfowl, bats and barn owls, and is directly mounted to a tree, building or 

other structure. These structures are designed to meet targeted species biology and life history needs. Addresses Resource Concern: Inadequate Cover/Shelter.

Before Situation:

The area lacks sufficient overall habitat conditions to support viable populations of targeted species. A suitable location to mount the box is available. Predator guards not 

needed.

After Situation:

The installation of nesting and rearing boxes support the life-cycle needs of targeted species, such as birds, bats and pollinators. Because of suitable location and 

conditions the nesting box can be directly mounted such as on a tree or building, thereby eliminating the need for mounting poles and predator guards. Species such as 

cavity dwelling birds and pollinators use this approach, but this treatment is not limited to those species. These structures/features enhance habitat, cover, and improve 

species survivability.

Feature Measure: Number of structures.

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $142.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $142.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 0.5 $11.94

Materials

Habitat Box, waterfowl 1449 Wood Duck Box, typically 24x11x12 inch with 4 inch wide oval entrance, 

single. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $130.79 1 $130.79
Practice: 649 - Structures for Wildlife

Scenario: #53 - Wildlife Friendly Fence Retrofit, Replacement of Barbed Wire Only with Smooth Wire

Scenario Description:

Fences are retrofitted to meet wildlife-friendly fence guidelines by adjusting wire spacing, replacing barbed wire with smooth wire, making wires more visible, and 

reducing perching opportunities for avian predators. New wire may be installed to accomplish the objectives when needed to prevent wildlife mortality. Typically, 1,320 

foot of fence is retrofitted to meet Fish &Wildlife criteria of 16.5-foot spacing of posts.

Before Situation:

Fences do not meet wildlife-friendly criteria, resulting in hazardous conditions for and unnecessary mortality to wildlife. Fences fragment habitat, provide avian predators 

of ground-nesting birds with places to perch and hunt. A habitat evaluation or other tool has identified fences in an operating unit as not meeting planning criteria or 

constituting a threat to sage-grouse or other identified wildlife species.

After Situation:

Fences are modified to reduce wildlife mortality. Typical fence is a smooth wire fence for a length of 1,320 feet. All line posts, corner brace assemblies, and wire in the 

finished structure must be of sound materials.

Feature Measure: Feet Planned

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,944.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.47

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Materials

Wire, High Tensile, 12.5 Gauge, 2

4,000' roll

High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 4,000' roll. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $150.67 4 $602.68

Fence, Wire Assembly, High 31

Tensile, Non-Electric, 6 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.36 1320 $475.20
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #1 - Sod Release

Scenario Description:

Reduce competition from sod around trees/shrubs within a windbreak/shelterbelt. Apply appropriate herbicides to stress or kill competing sod vegetation between and/or 

within tree/shrub rows. A herbicide application is completed to significantly reduce competition from sod (grass) in the windbreak.

Before Situation:

1000 feet of livestock shelterbelt, 4 rows of mixed deciduous and conifer trees/shrubs, deteriorating due to being sod bound. Resouce concerns: Degraded plant conditionundesirable plant productivity and health, Livestock Production-Inadequate livestock shelter.

After Situation:

Integrity of windbreak restored. Domestic animal protection restored.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $136.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 2 $25.32
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #2 - Thinning

Scenario Description:

Thinning of selected trees and understory vegetation in a windbreak/shelterbelt is needed to ensure that species composition and stand structure continue to serve their 

intended purpose. Typical scenario is 1,000 feet. Resource concern is Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

1,000' of windbreak/shelterbelt renovation carried out through manipulating species composition, stand structure and stocking by the thinning of selected trees and 

understory vegetation to restore the stand for it's intended purpose. This manipulation does not include pruning. 

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $484.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 10 $63.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 0.5 $17.08
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #3 - Removal <8 inches DBH with Skidsteer

Scenario Description:

Windbreak renovation requires the removal of degraded or inappropriate trees or shrubs within a windbreak. This may include removal of entire rows, including stumps or 

roots, or selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the planting of a replacement row within the windbreak, improve the health of the remaining rows, and/or allow for 

supplemental planting to expand the windbreak. Resource concerns include Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health, Livestock ProductionInadequate livestock shelter, Soil erosion-wind. 

Before Situation:

Reduce wind impacts by renovating 1,000 foot windbreaks or shelterbelts using heavy equipment to remove selected trees with average DBH < 8 Inches. Typically trees 

and shrubs are cleared by a Skidsteer using a tree shear or saw. All slash material from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and crushed, chipped, or 

removed from the treatment area. 

After Situation:

Integrity and function of windbreak restored.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,688.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 10 $574.20

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 11 $342.54

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #4 - Removal > 8 inches DBH with Dozer

Scenario Description:

Windbreak renovation requires the removal of degraded or inappropriate trees or shrubs within a windbreak. This may include removal of entire rows, including stumps or 

roots, or selected trees/shrubs in order to prepare for the planting of a replacement row within the windbreak, improve the health of the remaining rows, and/or allow for 

supplemental planting to expand the windbreak. Resource concerns include Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health, Livestock ProductionInadequate livestock shelter, Soil erosion-wind. 

Before Situation:

Reduce wind impacts by renovating 1,000 foot windbreaks or shelterbelts using heavy equipment to remove selected trees with average DBH > 8 inches. Typically trees 

and shrubs are cleared by dozer (D-6 or equivalent) using a brush rake or blade. All slash material from cutting and pruning is either scattered and crushed, piled and 

crushed, chipped, or removed from the treatment area. 

After Situation:

Integrity and function of windbreak restored.

Feature Measure: Length of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,180.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 200 HP 928 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 160 to 250. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $184.60 10 $1,846.00

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 11 $402.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #5 - Coppicing - less than 50 percent of the windbreak

Scenario Description:

Coppicing of selected trees and understory vegetation in a windbreak/shelterbelt is needed to ensure that species composition and stand structure continue to serve their 

intended purpose. Resource concern is Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

One acre of windbreak/shelterbelt renovation carried out through manipulating species composition, stand structure, and stocking by the cutting of selected trees and 

understory vegetation for coppicing and by removing or disposing of slash so it does not interfere with the intended purpose of the renovation. This manipulation does not 

include pruning. 

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,630.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 9 $280.26

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #6 - Coppicing - greater than 50 percent of the windbreak

Scenario Description:

Coppicing of selected trees and understory vegetation in a windbreak/shelterbelt is needed to ensure that species composition and stand structure continue to serve their 

intended purpose. Resource concern is Degraded plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

One acre of windbreak/shelterbelt renovation carried out through manipulating species composition, stand structure, and stocking by the cutting of selected trees and 

understory vegetation for coppicing and by removing or disposing of slash so it does not interfere with the intended purpose of the renovation. This manipulation does not 

include pruning. 

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,032.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 12 $689.04

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7 $167.16

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 13 $404.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #11 - Supplemental Plantings-Machine

Scenario Description:

Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of bare root trees/shrubs will improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. 

Trees and shrubs planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 

16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers. Resource concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition - 

Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock shelter.

Before Situation:

Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the machine planting of bare root tree and shrub 

seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. 

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $371.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5.5 $131.34

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 66 $71.28

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 33 $33.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 33 $31.68

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #12 - Supplemental Plantings-Machine, Wildlife Protection

Scenario Description:

Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of bare root trees/shrubs will improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. 

Trees and shrubs planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 

16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers. Resource concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition - 

Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock shelter. Herbivore (deer, rabbits, etc.) damage is likely, so each tree 

must be protected with a rigid tube tree shelter. 

Before Situation:

Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the machine planting of bare root tree and shrub 

seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. 

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,024.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 7.5 $179.10

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 66 $71.28

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 33 $33.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 33 $31.68

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 66 $440.22

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 66 $4.62

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 66 $160.38

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #13 - Supplemental Plantings-Machine, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of bare root trees/shrubs will 

improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Trees and shrubs will be planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 

feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row, with rows 16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers. Resource 

concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition - Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock 

shelter.

Before Situation:

Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the machine planting of bare root tree and shrub 

seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. The area generally includes arid or drought 

conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored. Greatly improved success rate of the windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,119.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 11.5 $274.62

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 66 $71.28

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 33 $33.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 33 $31.68

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 4000 $360.00

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #14 - Supplemental Plantings-Machine, Wildlife Protection, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of bare root trees/shrubs will 

improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. Trees and shrubs will be planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 

feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row, with rows 16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers. Resource 

concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition - Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock 

shelter. Herbivore (deer, rabbits, etc.) damage is likely, so each tree must be protected with a rigid tube tree shelter. 

Before Situation:

Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the planting of bare root tree and shrub seedlings 

at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. Planting is achieved through machine planting. The area 

generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored. Greatly improved success rate of the windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,772.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.77

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 1 $36.68

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 13.5 $322.38

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 1 $31.14

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 66 $71.28

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 33 $33.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 33 $31.68

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 66 $440.22

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 66 $4.62

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 66 $160.38

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 4000 $360.00

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #15 - Hand Planted, Bare Root

Scenario Description:

Single 600 foot row of bare root shrubs, conifers, hardwoods, or a combination, for wind protection, wildlife habitat, or snow management. Shrubs will be planted with a 

spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers based on feet of trees. This 

practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns include: Soil Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture 

management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant 

productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field 

operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover provided. 

Feature Measure: Length of tree row

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $207.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 40 $43.20

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 20 $20.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 20 $19.20

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #17 - Hand Planted, Bare Root, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. Single 600 foot row of bare root shrubs, conifers, hardwoods, or a combination, for wind protection, wildlife 

habitat, or snow management. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 

hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers based on feet of trees. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed may include: Soil 

Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition. The area 

generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover. Greatly improved success rate of the 

windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: Length of tree row

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $739.66

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 40 $43.20

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 20 $20.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 20 $19.20

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 2400 $216.00

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #18 - Hand Planted, Potted, supplemental water for establishment

Scenario Description:

Tree planting in an area where supplemental water is needed for successful establishment. Generally these areas would be considered arid or drought stricken, but other 

factors may contribute to requiring supplemental water. Single 600 foot row of potted shrubs, conifers, hardwoods, or a combination, for wind protection, wildlife 

habitat, or snow management. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 

hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers based on feet of trees. This practice is typically applied to crop, pasture or range lands. Resource Concerns to be addressed may include: Soil 

Erosion (wind); Excess/Insufficient Water (drifted snow, inefficient moisture management); Water Quality Degradation (excess nutrients in surface waters, excessive 

sediment in surface waters,); Degraded Plant Condition (undesirable plant productivity and health); Inadequate habitat for Fish and Wildlife (food, cover/shelter, 

continuity); Inefficient Energy Use (facilities, farming/ranching practices and field operations).

Before Situation:

Agricultural field, livestock paddock, feedlot or farmstead needing protection from wind, additional wildlife food and cover, or management of snow deposition. The area 

generally includes arid or drought conditions that greatly reduce the success of tree survival.

After Situation:

Wind velocity suitably reduced to minimize soil erosion, or to manage snow deposition. Additional wildlife food and cover. Greatly improved success rate of the 

windbreak due to the supplemental water during establishment.

Feature Measure: Length of tree row

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 600.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,296.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 40 $311.60

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 20 $174.20

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 20 $153.20

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 20 $2.60

Micro Irrigation, drip irrigation 2170

system, small scale

An above ground, small scale, micro-irrigation system. Includes 

miniature emitters, tubes, or applicators placed along a water delivery 

line. Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.09 2400 $216.00

Micro Irrigation, screen or disc 2524

filter, < 3 inch

Micro Irrigation, small manual flush screen or disc filter, <3 inch 

nominal size. Includes materials only.

Each $219.16 1 $219.16
Practice: 650 - Windbreak/Shelterbelt Renovation

Scenario: #22 - Supplemental Plantings-Machine, Weed Barrier

Scenario Description:

Parts of the windbreak being renovated have died. Supplemental plantings of bare root trees/shrubs will improve the effectiveness and longevity of the windbreak. 

Trees and shrubs planted with a tree planting machine. Shrubs will be planted with a spacing of 4 to 6 feet and hardwoods/conifers 8 to 12 feet apart in the row with rows 

16 feet apart. The scenario will include 1/3 shrubs, 1/3 hardwoods, and 1/3 conifers. Fabric will be installed to prevent competition from grass and weeds. Resource 

concerns include Soil erosion - Wind erosion, Degraded plant condition - Inadequate structure and composition, and Livestock production limitation - Inadequate livestock 

shelter.

Before Situation:

Dead trees/shrubs are inhibiting windbreak effectiveness. A one (1.0) acre windbreak/shelterbelt is expanded through the machine planting of bare root tree and shrub 

seedlings at a average spacing of 8' (shrubs 4'-6', deciduous/conifer trees 8'-12') within row and 15'-20' between rows. 

After Situation:

The integrity and function of the windbreak is restored.

Feature Measure: Area of Renovation

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $929.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 3 $110.04

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 1 $6.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12.5 $298.50

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Materials

Mulch, polyethylene plastic, 1.0 1303

mil

1.0 mil polyethylene plastic mulch, with anchoring. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Square Yard $0.38 670 $254.60

Shrub, Seedling, Small 1506 Bare root shrub seedling, 6 to 18 inches tall, includes containerized 

seedlings less than 10 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $1.08 66 $71.28

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 33 $33.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Small 1512 Containerized conifer seedlings, 4 or 6 cubic inches; or bare root conifer 

seedlings 1+0 (one-year old seedlings grown in their original seedbed). 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $0.96 33 $31.68

Wire flags 1586 Small vinyl flags attached to wire stakes, typically, 36 in. length, for 

marking tree rows

Each $0.13 40 $5.20
Practice: 654 - Road/Trail/Landing Closure and Treatment

Scenario: #15 - Road/Trail/Landing Closure and Treatment, <35% hillslope 

Scenario Description:

The practice includes permanent road/trail/landing closure, treatment, or removal and to hydrologically reconnect the hillslope to applicable drainage networks. The 

treatment will prohibit future access. The typical scenario includes decommissioning a 500 ft of an 18-foot wide trail/road with a landing on 30% forest slopes, using heavy 

equipment such as a bulldozer or similar equipment (excavator or road grader with ripper) to re-shape and obliterate the road base and landings in order to re-establish 

native cool season vegetation. It also includes restoring hydrology with the removal of culverts and drainage fills. Necessary erosion control measures such as water bars 

are installed. Some hand-work may be necessary to clear the site for the equipment. The work will be supervised by a consultant forester, land manager, or other 

resource professional. Tree/Shrub Site Prep is not included, however, Tree/Shrub Planting is recommended. When completed, there is no additional maintenance with 

heavy equipment needed. This practice addresses one or more resource concerns: Excessive sediment in surface waters and Concentrated flow erosion. Since not all 

segments of the road/trail system may require this level of treatment, this scenario applies only to those segments that are causing the resource concerns.

Before Situation:

The legacy trail/road is severely affecting wetlands, riparian areas, slope stability, water quality and possibly T&E species. The trail/road can no longer serve it's intended 

use and is incapable of handling needed equipment and traffic. Alternative access is possible. Therefore abandonment and site restoation are the best approaches to 

address the resource concerns and problems that are being created.

After Situation:

The resource concerns are addressed by the abandonment of the road and its drainage elements, and by re-seeding to native grasses.

Feature Measure: length 

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,122.41

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 6 $474.24

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 3 $395.25

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 4 $25.44

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 1 $14.15

Water Bars 1500 Installation of graded trail water controlling structures such as water 

bars, broad based dips for erosion control. Typical cross section is 1.5 

feet high with 4:1 side slopes yielding about 0.33 CY/ft of length.

Feet $3.06 225 $688.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 6 $219.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 654 - Road/Trail/Landing Closure and Treatment

Scenario: #16 - Road/Trail removal and restoration (Vegetative)

Scenario Description:

Minimal re-shaping to natural conditions using light equipment and the establishment of permanent vegetation. This scenario includes using smaller equipment (ag 

tractor/skidsteer/small dozer/backhoe/) for the installation of water control devices such as water bars and rolling dips, controlling access, and pulling drainages on 500 

feet of 12' wide road on 5%-35% hill slopes and little grade. The site is re-vegetated to permanent improved grass and temporarily protected with a thin layer of hay 

mulch. Soil amendments are applied as per the FOTG guidance. This practice addresses one or more resource concerns: Excessive sediment in surface waters, Wildlife 

habitat degradation, and Concentrated flow erosion. Since not all segments of the road/trail system may require this level of treatment, this scenario applies only to those 

segments that are causing the resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Legacy trail/road is not necessary and is affecting wetlands, riparian areas, water quality, and possibly T&E species. The trail/road can no longer serve it's intended use 

and is incapable of handling needed equipment and traffic. Alternative access was possible. Therefore abandonment and site restoration are the best approaches to 

address the resource concerns and problems that are being created.

After Situation:

The re-vegetated, eliminated road addressed the resource concern.

Feature Measure: length of landing/trail(s)

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,558.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.12

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 1 $57.42

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 1 $22.09

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 1 $7.68

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 1 $9.32

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 1 $14.15

Water Bars 1500 Installation of graded trail water controlling structures such as water 

bars, broad based dips for erosion control. Typical cross section is 1.5 

feet high with 4:1 side slopes yielding about 0.33 CY/ft of length.

Feet $3.06 100 $306.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 6 $143.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Ammonium Nitrate 69 Price per pound of N supplied by Ammonium Nitrate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.67 15 $10.05

Phosphorus, P2O5 73 Price per pound of P2O5 supplied by Superphosphate. Price is not per 

pound of total product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.79 10 $7.90

Potassium, K2O 74 K2O supplied by Muriate Of Potash. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.68 10 $6.80

Lime, ENM 75 Fertilizer: Limestone Spread on field. Ton $80.77 1 $80.77

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 1 $137.00

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 1 $134.97
Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: 656 - Constructed Wetland

Scenario: #1 - Medium, 0.5 ac or less

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the basic earthwork and native and/or organic wetland vegetation needed to create a constructed wetland to treat contaminated 

agricultural runoff for a medium site (i.e. 0.5 ac or less). All other components, such as water control structures, dikes or upstream sediment basins, must be paid for 

under facilitating practices. Soil, water and tissue sampling are required. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation 

due to excess nutrients and pathogens. Associated practices: Structure for Water Control (587); Sediment Basin (350); Dike (356); Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay 

Treatment (521D); Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A); Fence (382); Grade Stabilization Structure (410); Pumping Plant (533); Waste Transfer (634) 

Before Situation:

Contaminated agricultural runoff causes excess ponding and/or water quality degradation.

After Situation:

A 0.25 acre constructed wetland (i.e. 45' x 240') will be constructed with an average 18' depth. Only the earthwork and wetland vegetation are considered in this 

scenario. Any structures or sediment basins will be designed under a separate practice. The constructed wetland site is near the property boundary, but still takes 

cropland out of production (1/2 wetland acreage). The constructed wetland treats the influent by reducing excess nutrients and adding oxygen through wetland plants 

and functions before the effluent is transported to a waste storage facility or discharged off site, if permitted by regulation. 

Feature Measure: Area of Constructed Wetland

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 0.25

Scenario Total Cost: $4,558.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18,235.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Clearing and Grubbing 40 Clearing and Grubbing, includes materials, equipment and labor Acres $285.13 0.25 $71.28

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 200 $168.00

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 400 $1,084.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 14 $334.32

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 2 $29.08

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 1 $25.27

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 8 $428.00

Native Aquatic Plants, Emergent 2336

or Submerged

Native aquatic emergent or submerged. All required materials for 

establishing vegetation. Includes material and shipping.

Each $1.22 1350 $1,647.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 656 - Constructed Wetland

Scenario: #2 - Large, 0.5 to 1.0 ac.

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the basic earthwork and native and/or organic wetland vegetation needed to create a constructed wetland to treat contaminated 

agricultural runoff for a large site (i.e. >0.5 ac). All other components, such as water control structures, dikes or upstream sediment basins, must be paid for under 

facilitating practices. Soil, water and tissue sampling are required. The purpose of the practice is to address resource concerns related to water quality degradation due to 

excess nutrients and pathogens. Associated practices: Structure for Water Control (587); Sediment Basin (350); Dike (356); Pond Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay 

Treatment (521D); Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A); Fence (382); Grade Stabilization Structure (410); Pumping Plant (533); Waste Transfer (634).

Before Situation:

Contaminated agricultural runoff causes excess ponding and/or water quality degradation.

After Situation:

A 1.0 acre wetland (i.e. 95' x 460') will be constructed with an average 18' depth. Only the earthwork and wetland vegetation are considered in this scenario. Any 

structures or sediment basins will be designed under a separate practice. The constructed wetland site is near the property boundary, but still takes cropland out of 

production (1/2 wetland acreage). The constructed wetland treats the influent by reducing excess nutrients and adding oxygen through wetland plants and functions 

before the effluent is transported to a waste storage facility or discharged off site, if permitted by regulation. 

Feature Measure: Area of Constructed Wetland

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,888.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,888.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Clearing and Grubbing 40 Clearing and Grubbing, includes materials, equipment and labor Acres $285.13 1 $285.13

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 809 $679.56

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 1619 $4,387.49

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 37 $883.56

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 2 $29.08

Test, Plant Tissue Test 301 Tissue analysis for crops. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $25.27 1 $25.27

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 8 $428.00

Native Aquatic Plants, Emergent 2336

or Submerged

Native aquatic emergent or submerged. All required materials for 

establishing vegetation. Includes material and shipping.

Each $1.22 3605 $4,398.10

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 656 - Constructed Wetland

Scenario: #3 - Large, more than 1.0 ac.

Scenario Description:

This practice scenario includes the basic earthwork needed to create a constructed wetland to improve water quality for a large site (i.e. >1.0ac). All other components, 

such as water control structures, dikes or upstream sediment basins, must be paid for under facilitating practices. The purpose of the practice is to address resource 

concerns related to water quality degradation due to excess nutrients. Associated practices: Structure for Water Control (587); Sediment Basin (350); Dike (356); Pond 

Sealing or Lining, Compacted Clay Treatment (521D); Pond Sealing or Lining, Flexible Membrane (521A); Fence (382); Grade Stabilization Structure (410); Pumping Plant 

(533); Waste Transfer (634). 

Before Situation:

Contaminated agricultural runoff causes excess ponding and/or water quality degradation.

After Situation:

A 1.25 acre wetland (i.e. 110' x 500') will be constructed with an average 12' depth. Only the earthwork is considered in this scenario. Any structures or sediment basins 

will be designed under a separate practice. The constructed wetland site iz near the property boundary, but still takes cropland out of production (1/2 wetland acreage). 

The constructed wetland treats the influent by reducing excess nutrients and adding oxygen through wetland plants and functions before the effluent is discharged off 

site. 

Feature Measure: Area of Constructed Wetland

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.25

Scenario Total Cost: $11,441.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,153.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Clearing and Grubbing 40 Clearing and Grubbing, includes materials, equipment and labor Acres $285.13 1.25 $356.41

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 1020 $856.80

Excavation, common earth, small 1220

equipment, 50 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth with dozer <100 HP with average 

push distance of 50 feet. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.71 1020 $2,764.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 46 $1,098.48

Materials

Native Aquatic Plants, Emergent 2336

or Submerged

Native aquatic emergent or submerged. All required materials for 

establishing vegetation. Includes material and shipping.

Each $1.22 4585 $5,593.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #1 - Fill in dugout

Scenario Description:

Restoring a wetland to its original condition by filling a dugout. Typical size is approximately 1,000 cu. yd. and 1 1/2 acres of land restored. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL 

QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY 

DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH 

AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site has a constructed dugout with spoil. A suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration to re-establish hydrophytic vegetation. The site is grazed.

After Situation:

The dugout has been filled, allowing the wetland to function in its original state. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY 

and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE 

HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-

Structure for Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Material Placed

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,261.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 1000 $3,330.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #2 - Depression Sediment Removal

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) class wetland is to be restored by removing 

sediment. The typical size of sediment removal is 1 acre. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY 

DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - 

Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - 

Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract may or may not be drained with a surface ditch. The watershed has been converted from a 

native to an agricultural landuse, and the resultant soil erosion has deposited an average of 9 inches of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After Situation:

The deposition has been removed down to the original topsoil layer. A herbaceous plant community has been seeded. Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation 

Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The 

hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 

342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,448.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, large 1221

equipment, 1500 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with 

scrapers with average haul distance of 1500 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.42 1613 $5,516.46

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #3 - Sediment Removal - Saturated Site

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) is to be restored by removing 

sediment. The typical size of sediment removal is 1 acre. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY 

DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - 

Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - 

Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract may or may not be drained with a surface ditch. The watershed has been converted from a 

native to an agricultural landuse, and the resultant soil erosion has deposited an average of 9 inches of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After Situation:

The deposition has been removed down to the original topsoil layer. A herbaceous plant community has been seeded. Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation 

Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The 

hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 

342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water Control. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,271.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, wet, 1228

side cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of wet common earth with hydraulic 

excavator or dragline with greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $4.55 1613 $7,339.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #4 - Ditch plug - Lateral Restoration

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) is to be restored by filling in the 

drainage ditch. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- 

WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground 

waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - 

DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract has been drained with a surface ditch. The watershed has been converted from a native to an 

agricultural landuse.

After Situation:

The drain has been closed by lateral restoration. The ditch has been filled for a distance determined by the permeability of the soil. The earthfill is done with compactive 

effort. Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED 

PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water 

Control. 

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 111.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,361.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 111 $429.57

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #5 - Embankment - Fill Height <= 4 feet

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) is to be restored by filling across 

the drainage ditch to block drainage. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic 

matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to 

surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant 

productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat 

degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract has been drained with a surface ditch. The watershed has been converted from a native to an 

agricultural landuse.

After Situation:

The drain has been closed by blocking the flow with an embankment. The embankment has typical dimentions of 10' topwidth with a fill height of 3', the sideslopes are 

3:1 and the length of the fill is 100'. The earthfill is done with compactive effort. Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant 

community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the 

SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-

Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earthfill

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 211.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,748.51

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 211 $816.57

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #11 - Mineral Flat 

Scenario Description:

A Mineral Flat wetland is to be restored. The tract size is 160 Acres consists of surface saturated soils interspersed with shallow depressions that are not depressional class 

HGM wetlands. The wetland size is also 160 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY 

DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER 

QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site has been drained with a tile drain system. A suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration to re-establish hydrophytic vegetation. The site is in agricultural 

production.

After Situation:

The drain tiles have been rendered non-functional by excavating 50 foot lengths of tile mains and laterals in 24 separate locations, and backfilling with excavated earth, 

which is compacted with the excavator bucket. There are no facilitating practices. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER 

QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and 

INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,970.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 24 $2,451.36

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #12 - Riverine Levee Removal and Floodplain Features 

Scenario Description:

A Riverine HGM tract on a large floodplain is to be restored. It has been converted to agricultural production by surface ditching and clearing of woody vegetation. The 

size of the tract is 100 acres. The wetland extent is 60 acres, and 40 acres are adjacent non-wetland. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic 

matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to 

surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant 

productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat 

degradation.

Before Situation:

A levee prevents floodwater from entering the tract. The original cover was forest. The site is drained by surface ditches which collect surface water and direct it to the 

river through a flap gate structure. The site has been completely cleared, and no suitable adjacent seedwall exists for natural regeneration of forest species. The lateral 

connectivity between the channel and floodplain has been altered by construction of levees along the reach. 

After Situation:

The hydrology of the site is restored with the installation of ditch plugs, and the excavation of macrotopographic features with an average depth of 6' over 30% of the 

wetland area. Excavated spoil is placed adjacent to the features on the wetland and adjacent non-wetland area with a maximum depth of 24 inches. The levee has been 

breached at the upstream and downstream ends of the tract reach, restoring dynamic stream flooding. The breach length is 150 feet long at both locations. Both the 

wetland and non-wetland areas are planted with a Bottomland Hardwood species mix. The levee breaches are armored with rock riprap. Facilitating practices include 

Grade Stabilization Structure and Tree and Shrub Planting. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED 

PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $42,939.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $429.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 16520 $40,143.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #13 - Depression Sediment Removal and Ditch Plug

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland is to be restored. The tract size is 15 acres, and the actual wetland size is 10 acres. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from 

surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and 

ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in 

surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and 

composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract drained with a surface ditch. The ditch is 4' average depth, and 12 feet average width. The 

wetland receives surface runoff from an adjacent upland watershed, and ponds water on a shallow perched layer. The watershed has been converted from native to 

agricultural landuse, and the resultant soil erosion has deposited 6' of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After Situation:

The ditch has been plugged by the installation of a 50' long section of compacted clay fill, and the deposition has been removed down to the original topsoil layer. A 

herbaceous plant community has been seeded. Facilitative practices include Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve 

the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and 

INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,811.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,454.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 8067 $19,602.81

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 89 $344.43

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #14 - Estuarine Fringe Levee Removal 

Scenario Description:

An Estuarine Fringe HGM landscape is to be restored. The wetland is subject to tidally induced water level fluctuations. The tract size is 120 acres, and the wetland area is 

100 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and 

ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in 

surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and 

composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production by construction of a dike to prevent tidal flows. The dike has a culvert with a flapgate to allow surface water to 

flow out, but prevents tide water from entering. The dike is 7 feet high above the current marsh surface. The dike has side slopes of 3:1, with a 12 foot top. A suitable 

seedbank exists for natural regeneration of the original plant community. The soils are organic, and loss of hydrology has caused the land surface to subside 3 feet due to 

aerobic decomposition of organic matter (mineralization). 

After Situation:

The dike has been breached in 4 locations, corresponding to the number of original inlet channels. The breach locations have 8 foot long steel sheet pile Structures for 

Water Control installed to prevent tidal surges from causing serious erosion on the subsided land surface. The original flap gate culvert has been removed. The dike is 4 

feet higher than the weir crests, so the excavations are 4 feet by 8 feet long, with 3:1 side slopes. The culvert has been removed and salvaged by the landowner. 

Facilitating practices are Structure for Water Control. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,485.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 284 $690.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 657 - Wetland Restoration

Scenario: #15 - Riverine Channel and Floodplain Restoration 

Scenario Description:

A Riverine HGM landscape on a small stream on a low stream order riparian landscape has been converted to agricultural production. The stream channel has degraded. 

The reach is 1500 feet in length, and the tract size is 15 acres. The wetland area is 10 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter 

depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface 

and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and 

health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Channel incision has broken the lateral connectivity between the stream and floodplain. The coversion to cropland was accompanied by filling and leveling of backswamp, 

side channel, and oxbow features which formerly ponded water or exposed the floodplain groundwater table. The site no longer has access to floodwater or water 

surface profile supported groundwater. No suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration of the original hydrophytic plant community, either in the channel, or on 

the floodplain. 

After Situation:

The hydrology of the site is restored by the installation of a series of rock check structures to raise the stream water surface profile. Floodplain macrotopographic features 

replicating the original side channels, oxbows, and backswamps are constructed by excavation. Spoil is placed adjacent to the excavations to replicate natural depositional 

features. The average depth of the excavated features is 2 feet, and the surface area of the excavations is 25% of the tract size. The eroding stream bank is stabilized with 

soil bio-engineering features, and fish habitat improvement measures are installed in the channel. The tract is seeded to appropriate hydrophytic and upland vegetation, 

both woody and herbaceous. Facilitating practices are Streambank and Shoreline protection, Structure for Water Control, Conservation Cover, Tree/Shrub Establishment, 

and Stream Habitat Improvement and Management. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,214.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $614.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 3025 $7,350.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 658 - Wetland Creation

Scenario: #1 - Wetland Creation, Excavation

Scenario Description:

A wetland is created on a flat mineral upland at a location where surface runoff may be intercepted and ponded by excavation. The wetland is created by excavating a 

depression. Resource concern is 22 - INDEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site is in cropland on an upland, non floodplain site (interfluve).

After Situation:

An excavation with an average depth of 24' has created a shallow depression in a broad swale which intercepts surface runoff. The excavated material has been spread on 

adjacent areas. The INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE resource concern has been addressed with the provision of seasonal open water for terrestrial, 

aquatic, and waterfowl species. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for 

Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,851.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 1613 $3,919.59

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 658 - Wetland Creation

Scenario: #2 - Excavation at Saturated Site

Scenario Description:

A wetland is created on a saturated flat mineral location where surface runoff may be intercepted and ponded by excavation. Resource concern is 22 - INDEQUATE 

HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site is in cropland on an upland site.

After Situation:

An excavation with an average depth of 24' has created a shallow depression in a broad swale which intercepts surface runoff. The excavated material has been spread on 

adjacent areas. The INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE resource concern has been addressed with the provision of seasonal open water for terrestrial, 

aquatic, and waterfowl species. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for 

Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,271.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, wet, 1228

side cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of wet common earth with hydraulic 

excavator or dragline with greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $4.55 1613 $7,339.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 1 $931.94
Practice: 658 - Wetland Creation

Scenario: #3 - Excavation and Embankment

Scenario Description:

A wetland is created on a flat mineral upland at a location where surface runoff may be intercepted and ponded by excavation. The wetland is created by excavating a 

depression and building a dike to intercept runoff. Resource concern is 22 - INDEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site is in cropland on an upland, non floodplain site (interfluve).

After Situation:

An excavation with an average depth of 24' has created a shallow depression in a broad swale which intercepts surface runoff. The excavated material has been spread on 

adjacent areas. A dike is also constructed at the site with a 8' topwidth, 3:1 sideslopes, 2' fill height for 200'. The INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE resource 

concern has been addressed with the provision of seasonal open water for terrestrial, aquatic, and waterfowl species. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 

550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earth Moved

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 1,613.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,642.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.74

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 207 $801.09

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 1406 $4,977.24

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 658 - Wetland Creation

Scenario: #8 - Wetland Creation, Wildlife Pond

Scenario Description:

A wetland is created on a flat mineral upland at a location where surface runoff may be intercepted and ponded by excavation. Resource concerns are 22 - INDEQUATE 

HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site is in cropland on an upland, non floodplain site (interfluve).

After Situation:

An excavation with an average depth of 12' has created a shallow depression in a broad swale which intercepts surface runoff. The excavated material has been spread on 

adjacent areas. The INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE resource concern has been addressed with the provision of seasonal open water for terrestrial, 

aquatic, and waterfowl species. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Wetland

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,466.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4,293.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 8067 $19,602.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #1 - Excavation

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) is to be enhanced. The tract size is 

15 acres, and the actual wetland size is 10 acres. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - 

Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides 

transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable 

plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat 

degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the wetland has lost size and storage volume from accumulated sediments. The wetland receives surface 

runoff from an adjacent upland watershed, and ponds water on a shallow perched layer. The watershed has been converted from a native to an agricultural landuse, and 

the resultant soil erosion has deposited 6' of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After Situation:

Any deposited sediment has been excavated and the depth ofthe wetland has been increased to add storage volume. A herbaceous plant community has been seeded. 

Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water 

Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 8,067.00

Scenario Total Cost: $21,466.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 8067 $19,602.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #2 - Excavation on Saturated Site

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) is to be enhanced. The tract size is 

15 acres, and the actual wetland size is 10 acres. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. The soils are saturated requiring dewatering and tracked 

equipemnt. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and 

ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in 

surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and 

composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the wetland has lost size and storage volume from accumulated sediments. The wetland receives surface 

runoff from an adjacent upland watershed, and ponds water on a shallow perched layer. The watershed has been converted from a native to an agricultural landuse, and 

the resultant soil erosion has deposited 6' of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After Situation:

Any deposited sediment has been excavated and the depth of the wetland has been increased to add storage volume. A herbaceous plant community has been seeded. 

Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water 

Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Excavation

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 8,067.00

Scenario Total Cost: $38,568.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, common earth, wet, 1228

side cast, large equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of wet common earth with hydraulic 

excavator or dragline with greater than 1 CY capacity. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $4.55 8067 $36,704.85

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #3 - Depression Sediment Removal and Ditch Plug

Scenario Description:

A Depressional HGM class wetland (Hydrogeomorphic approach to classifying the seven types of wetlands as defined by Brinson, 1993) is to be enhanced. The tract size is 

15 acres, and the actual wetland size is 10 acres. The site is a recharge depression, fed only from surface runoff. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - 

Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides 

transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable 

plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate structure and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat 

degradation. 

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production, and the tract drained with a surface ditch. The ditch is 4' average depth, and 12' average width. The wetland 

receives surface runoff from an adjacent upland watershed, and ponds water on a shallow perched layer. The watershed has been converted from a native to an 

agricultural landuse, and the resultant soil erosion has deposited 6' of sediment in the bottom of the depression.

After Situation:

The ditch has been plugged by the installation of a 50' long section of compacted clay fill, and the deposition has been removed down to the original topsoil layer. A 

herbaceous plant community has been seeded. Facilitative practices include 327-Conservation Cover. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will 

improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY 

DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. Associated practices are 342-Critical Area Planting, 550-Range Planting, 644-Wetland 

Wildlife Habitat Management, and 587-Structure for Water Control.

Feature Measure: Cubic Yards of Earth Moved

Scenario Unit: Cubic Yards

Scenario Typical Size: 8,317.00

Scenario Total Cost: $22,434.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 8067 $19,602.81

Earthfill, Roller Compacted 49 Earthfill, roller or machine compacted, includes equipment and labor Cubic Yards $3.87 250 $967.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #16 - Mineral Flat 

Scenario Description:

A Mineral Flat wetland is to be enhanced. The tract size is 160 Acres consists of surface saturated soils interspersed with shallow depressions that are not depressional 

class HGM wetlands. The wetland size is also 160 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY 

DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER 

QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The site has been drained with a tile drain system. A suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration to re-establish hydrophytic vegetation. The site is in agricultural 

production.

After Situation:

The drain tiles have been rendered non-functional by excavating 50 foot lengths of tile mains and laterals in 24 separate locations, and backfilling with excavated earth, 

which is compacted with the excavator bucket. There are no facilitating practices. Enhancement of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER 

QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and 

INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,970.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $24.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 24 $2,451.36

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #17 - Riverine Levee Removal and Floodplain Features 

Scenario Description:

A Riverine HGM tract on a large floodplain is to be enhanced. It has been converted to agricultural production by surface ditching and clearing of woody vegetation. The 

size of the tract is 100 acres. The wetland extent is 60 acres, and 40 acres are adjacent non-wetland. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic 

matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to 

surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant 

productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat 

degradation.

Before Situation:

A levee prevents floodwater from entering the tract. The original cover was forest. The site is drained by surface ditches which collect surface water and direct it to the 

river through a flap gate structure. The site has been completely cleared, and no suitable adjacent seedwall exists for natural regeneration of forest species. The lateral 

connectivity between the channel and floodplain has been altered by construction of levees along the reach. 

After Situation:

The hydrology of the site is enhanced with the installation of ditch plugs, and the excavation of macrotopographic features with an average depth of 6' over 30% of the 

wetland area. Excavated spoil is placed adjacent to the features on the wetland and adjacent non-wetland area with a maximum depth of 24 inches. The levee has been 

breached at the upstream and downstream ends of the tract reach, restoring dynamic stream flooding. The breach length is 150 feet long at both locations. Both the 

wetland and non-wetland areas are planted with a Bottomland Hardwood species mix. The levee breaches are armored with rock riprap. Facilitating practices include 

Grade Stabilization Structure and Tree and Shrub Planting. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED 

PLANT CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $49,573.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $495.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 19250 $46,777.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #19 - Estuarine Fringe Levee Removal 

Scenario Description:

An Estuarine Fringe HGM landscape is to be enhanced. The wetland is subject to tidally induced water level fluctuations. The tract size is 120 acres, and the wetland area is 

100 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and 

ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in 

surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and 

composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The wetland has been converted to agricultural production by construction of a dike to prevent tidal flows. The dike has a culvert with a flapgate to allow surface water to 

flow out, but prevents tide water from entering. The dike is 7 feet high above the current marsh surface. The dike has side slopes of 3:1, with a 12 foot top. A suitable 

seedbank exists for natural regeneration of the original plant community. The soils are organic, and loss of hydrology has caused the land surface to subside 3 feet due to 

aerobic decomposition of organic matter (mineralization). 

After Situation:

The dike has been breached in 4 locations, corresponding to the number of original inlet channels. The breach locations have 8 foot long steel sheet pile Structures for 

Water Control installed to prevent tidal surges from causing serious erosion on the subsided land surface. The original flap gate culvert has been removed. The dike is 4 

feet higher than the weir crests, so the excavations are 4 feet by 8 feet long, with 3:1 side slopes. The culvert has been removed and salvaged by the landowner. 

Facilitating practices are Structure for Water Control. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,485.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 284 $690.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 3 $2,795.82
Practice: 659 - Wetland Enhancement

Scenario: #20 - Riverine Channel and Floodplain Restoration 

Scenario Description:

A Riverine HGM landscape on a small stream on a low stream order riparian landscape has been converted to agricultural production. The stream channel has degraded. 

The reach is 1500 feet in length, and the tract size is 15 acres. The wetland area is 10 acres. Resource Concerns are: 4-SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION - Organic matter 

depletion, 11- WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excess nutrients in surface and ground waters, 12 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Pesticides transported to surface 

and ground waters, 16 - WATER QUALITY DEGRADATION - Excessive sediment in surface waters, 18 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION - Undesirable plant productivity and 

health, 19 - DEGRADED PLANT CONDITION, Inadequate strucuture and composition, 22- INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND WILDLIFE - Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

Channel incision has broken the lateral connectivity between the stream and floodplain. The coversion to cropland was accompanied by filling and leveling of backswamp, 

side channel, and oxbow features which formerly ponded water or exposed the floodplain groundwater table. The site no longer has access to floodwater or water 

surface profile supported groundwater. No suitable seed bank exists for natural regeneration of the original hydrophytic plant community, either in the channel, or on 

the floodplain. 

After Situation:

The hydrology of the site is restored by the installation of a series of rock check structures to raise the stream water surface profile. Floodplain macrotopographic features 

replicating the original side channels, oxbows, and backswamps are constructed by excavation. Spoil is placed adjacent to the excavations to replicate natural depositional 

features. The average depth of the excavated features is 2 feet, and the surface area of the excavations is 25% of the tract size. The eroding stream bank is stabilized with 

soil bio-engineering features, and fish habitat improvement measures are installed in the channel. The tract is seeded to appropriate hydrophytic and upland vegetation, 

both woody and herbaceous. Facilitating practices are Streambank and Shoreline protection, Structure for Water Control, Conservation Cover, Tree/Shrub Establishment, 

and Stream Habitat Improvement and Management. Restoration of hydrology and plant community functions will improve the WATER QUALITY and DEGRADED PLANT 

CONDITION concerns listed above. The hydrologic and vegetative practices will address the SOIL QUALITY DEGRADATION and INADEQUATE HABITAT FOR FISH AND 

WILDLIFE concerns. 

Feature Measure: Acres of Tract

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,214.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $614.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Excavation, Common Earth, side 48

cast, small equipment

Bulk excavation and side casting of common earth with hydraulic 

excavator with less than 1 CY capacity. Includes equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $2.43 3025 $7,350.75

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #10 - Pruning-Low Height

Scenario Description:

Pruning is done by hand with chain saws, tree loppers, hand shears, or hand saws. Trees are identified for pruning. To improve the quality of the stem wood, branches 

are pruned from the trees. Trees are growing at a fast pace, with leader growth on trees anywhere from 1.5 feet to 4 feet in length. 

Before Situation:

Trees are retaining lower limbs along the entire tree bole, reducing wood quality. Pruning height will be based on overall stand diameter and height. Stand has been 

thinned and crop trees are identified for pruning. Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health is the resource concern.

After Situation:

The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the desirable height of 8-10 feet. Pruned branches are treated if they are a hazard, see Woody 

Residue Treatment standard.

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,822.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $191.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 20 $46.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 15 $756.00

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #11 - Pruning- High Height

Scenario Description:

Pruning is done by hand with pole saws or with gas pole saw. Crop trees are identified for pruning. The forest is on highly productive soils. Trees are growing at a fast 

pace, with leader growth on trees anywhere from 1.5 feet to 4 feet in length. To improve the quality of the stem wood, branches are pruned from the trees. 

Before Situation:

Trees are retaining limbs mostly along the mid to upper section of the tree bole, reducing quality. Lower branches (0-8 feet) may have already been pruned, have naturally 

self pruned to differing heights. Pruning height is at least to eighteen (18) feet above the ground. Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health is 

the resource concern.

After Situation:

The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the height of 18 feet or more. Pruned branches are treated so they do not become a fire or health 

hazard. 

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,320.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $366.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 70 $161.70

Pruning tool, pole saw 1319 Gasoline powered pole chainsaw. Labor not included. Hours $9.80 50 $490.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 200 $4,776.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 25 $1,260.00

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #12 - Pruning-Multistory Cropping Understory

Scenario Description:

Pruning trees and/or shrubs is accomplished to extend the life span of trees and or shrubs. Pruning reduces the time periods of replacement by 2/3rds, exposing less bare 

soil. Pruning is accomplished by hand with hand tools and/or chainsaw. Trees and or shrubs are growing where the average rainfall is very high, with cooler temperatures 

and deep steep soils. Resouce concerns are degraded plant condition-undesireable plant productivity and health, soil erosion-sheet and rill.

Before Situation:

Trees and/or shrubs are showing signs of reduced health (thinning crowns/less branching) and fruit production. Loss of trees or shrubs will occur within a few years. 

Severe soil erosion and sedimentation is a great concern if trees or shrubs are removed. 

After Situation:

Tree/shrub pruning is completed on trees and/or shrubs. Cut vegetative material is left on the ground providing cover, and increasing organic matter. Alternative row 

pruning, treating every other row (or one-half the plants), in the same field, is completed 2 times. Renovation pruning is conducted one time for the entire field.

Feature Measure: individual tree/shrub pruned

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $815.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 10 $63.60

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 4 $9.24

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #13 - Pruning-MultiStory Cropping-Overstory

Scenario Description:

Overstory tree crowns are pruned to increase sunlight to understory shrubs and low growing trees that have been purposely established to grow on the same acre of 

ground. Resource concern is degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

The overstory trees are expanding their crowns, providing to much shade on the understory plants. The shade is affecting the growth and production of the understory 

plants. Pruning of branches, leaves, frawns, etc. are needed to maintain the desired amount of sunlight reaching the understory. 

After Situation:

Pruning of the overstory tree crowns is completed, allowing the proper amount of sunlight to reach the understory vegetation, maintaining their growth, health and vigor, 

and wildlife benefits.

Feature Measure: Overstory Trees Pruned

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $929.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 20 $127.20

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 12 $27.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #29 - Pruning Individual Agroforestry tree - small acreage

Scenario Description:

In agroforestry settings (crop or forest lands) overstory tree crowns are pruned to increase sunlight to understory shrubs, low growing trees, and crop plants that have 

been purposely established to grow on the same ground. Thirty trees or less per acre require pruning. Associated Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 384 - Woody 

Residue Treatment. Resource concern is degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health.

Before Situation:

Overstory trees are expanding their crowns, providing too much shade on the understory plants. The shade is affecting the growth and production of the understory 

plants. Pruning branches, leaves, frawns, etc. are needed to maintain the desired about of sunlight reaching the understory.

After Situation:

Pruning of the overstory tree crowns is completed, allowing the proper amount of sunlight to reach the understory vegetation, maintaining their grown, health and vigor, 

and wildlife benefits. Typical treatment area is less than 1 acre; typical scenario based on 1 ac, 30 TPA.

Feature Measure: Tree Pruned

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 30.00

Scenario Total Cost: $345.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 5 $31.80

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 3 $6.93

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 5 $159.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #33 - Pruning-Low Height

Scenario Description:

Pruning is done by hand with chain saws, tree loppers, hand shears, or hand saws. Trees are identified for pruning. To improve the quality of the stem wood, branches 

are pruned from the trees. Trees are growing at a fast pace, with leader growth on trees anywhere from 1.5 feet to 4 feet in length. 

Before Situation:

Trees are retaining lower limbs along the entire tree bole, reducing wood quality. Pruning height will be based on overall stand diameter and height. Stand has been 

thinned and crop trees are identified for pruning. Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health is the resource concern.

After Situation:

The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the desirable height of 8-10 feet. Pruned branches are treated if they are a hazard, see Woody 

Residue Treatment standard.

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,822.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $191.15

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 20 $46.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 100 $2,388.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 15 $756.00

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #34 - Pruning- High Height

Scenario Description:

Pruning is done by hand with pole saws or with gas pole saw. Crop trees are identified for pruning. The forest is on highly productive soils. Trees are growing at a fast 

pace, with leader growth on trees anywhere from 1.5 feet to 4 feet in length. To improve the quality of the stem wood, branches are pruned from the trees. 

Before Situation:

Trees are retaining limbs mostly along the mid to upper section of the tree bole, reducing quality. Lower branches (0-8 feet) may have already been pruned, have naturally 

self pruned to differing heights. Pruning height is at least to eighteen (18) feet above the ground. Degrade plant condition- undesirable plant productivity and health is 

the resource concern.

After Situation:

The typical forest pruning treatment is 20 acres. Trees are pruned to the height of 18 feet or more. Pruned branches are treated so they do not become a fire or health 

hazard. 

Feature Measure: area of treatment

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,320.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $366.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 70 $161.70

Pruning tool, pole saw 1319 Gasoline powered pole chainsaw. Labor not included. Hours $9.80 50 $490.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 200 $4,776.00

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 25 $1,260.00

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #35 - Pruning-Multistory Cropping Understory

Scenario Description:

Pruning trees and/or shrubs is accomplished to extend the life span of trees and or shrubs. Pruning reduces the time periods of replacement by 2/3rds, exposing less bare 

soil. Pruning is accomplished by hand with hand tools and/or chainsaw. Trees and or shrubs are growing where the average rainfall is very high, with cooler temperatures 

and deep steep soils. Resouce concerns are degraded plant condition-undesireable plant productivity and health, soil erosion-sheet and rill.

Before Situation:

Trees and/or shrubs are showing signs of reduced health (thinning crowns/less branching) and fruit production. Loss of trees or shrubs will occur within a few years. 

Severe soil erosion and sedimentation is a great concern if trees or shrubs are removed. 

After Situation:

Tree/shrub pruning is completed on trees and/or shrubs. Cut vegetative material is left on the ground providing cover, and increasing organic matter. Alternative row 

pruning, treating every other row (or one-half the plants), in the same field, is completed 2 times. Renovation pruning is conducted one time for the entire field.

Feature Measure: individual tree/shrub pruned

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $815.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.02

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 10 $63.60

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 4 $9.24

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00
Practice: 660 - Tree-Shrub Pruning

Scenario: #36 - Pruning-Multistory Cropping-Overstory

Scenario Description:

Overstory tree crowns are pruned to increase sunlight to understory shrubs and low growing trees that have been purposely established to grow on the same acre of 

ground. Resource concern is degraded plant condition - undesirable plant productivity and health. 

Before Situation:

The overstory trees are expanding their crowns, providing to much shade on the understory plants. The shade is affecting the growth and production of the understory 

plants. Pruning of branches, leaves, frawns, etc. are needed to maintain the desired amount of sunlight reaching the understory. 

After Situation:

Pruning of the overstory tree crowns is completed, allowing the proper amount of sunlight to reach the understory vegetation, maintaining their growth, health and vigor, 

and wildlife benefits.

Feature Measure: Overstory Trees Pruned

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $929.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 20 $127.20

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 12 $27.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #1 - Pre-commercial Thinning , Hand tools

Scenario Description:

Adjusting the stocking of a young, non-merchantable stand of trees. The operation is supervised by a consultant forester and is carried out using hand tools such as 

chainsaws. Resource concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

The stocking of a stand of trees that are too small to make a commercial thinning exceeds the recommended fully stocked level for the species and site. The effect is much 

slower growth than is reasonable or expected for the site, increased susceptibility to insects and disease, and an unacceptable devastating wildfire risk. 

After Situation:

After adjusting the stocking to an acceptable level, stand growth, condition, and overall quality is improved. In addition, wildlife habitat is improved with the resulting 

increase of sunlight reaching the forest floor.

Feature Measure: Area treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,213.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $321.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 48 $305.28

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 50 $1,194.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #2 - Timber Stand Improvement, Single Stem Treatment

Scenario Description:

Altering the composition and stocking of a stand of trees by means of individual stem treatment. The trees to be retained are marked by a consultant forester. Resource 

concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

The existing condition of the stand cannot meet the landowners objectives because the composition consists of unwanted species and the stocking exceeds the 

recommended level. The species and quality of the trees to be controlled makes a commercial operation unfeasible. Therefore the stand improvement will be carried out 

with single stem treatment such as injection or basal bark spraying. 

After Situation:

The composition of the stand can meet the landowners objectives and the growth, condition and quality of the remaining trees is improved.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,989.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $398.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 18 $1,486.62

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 20 $2,156.80

Materials

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 10 $192.80
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #3 - Timber Stand Improvement, Chemical, Ground

Scenario Description:

Using ground applied chemicals to release young desirable trees from competing and/or overtopping vegetation. Resource concerns include: Undesirable plant 

productivity and health, and Wildlife habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

An adequately stocked stand of desirable species and trees is not growing to its potential for the site due to severe competition from undesirable trees and brush. 

Releasing the desirable trees from the competition will be achieved through the application of appropriate herbicides according to label directions. Application will be by 

ground equipment as an over-the-top spray. 

After Situation:

The released stand of trees contains the composition and quality needed to meet the landowner's objectives and address the resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,051.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $51.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 40 $271.60

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 40 $1,715.60

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 40 $64.40
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #6 - Competition Control, Mechanical, Heavy Equipment

Scenario Description:

Using equipment such as a masticator or mulcher to control vegetation that is competing with desirable trees and species or to reduce the stocking level of a stand of 

desirable trees. The trees to be retained will be marked by a consultant. Resource concerns include Undesirable plant productivity and health; Wildlife habitat 

degradation; Wildfire hazard; and Inadequate structure and composition. 

Before Situation:

 A stand of desirable trees is adversely affected by competition either from undesirable species, cull trees, or because the stand is overstocked. The vegetation to be 

controlled is too large to be mowed or shredded. Therefore other mechanical methods such as using masticators or mulchers is necessary. 

After Situation:

The released stand of trees contains the composition and quality needed to meet the landowner's objectives and address the resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,079.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $707.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 30 $3,539.70

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 30 $934.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 17 $1,833.28

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #8 - Thinning for Wildlife and Forest Health

Scenario Description:

A combination of hand and chemical treatments used to open the canopy of a stand to improve the wildlife habitat and tree health. Resource concerns include: 

Inadequate structure and composition, Undesirable plant productivity and health, and Habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The stand of mature trees is overstocked resulting in a closed canopy. This condition is causing a lack of structure, herbaceous layer, and diversity that is needed to meet 

the landowner's objectives for improved wildlife habitat and forest health. Under the supervision of a consultant forester, it will be marked for thinning and timber stand 

improvement applications that will include cutting with hand tools (chainsaws) and injection. Costs involved in any commercial harvesting including marking, access, and 

transportation are not included in this scenario. However the costs involved in marking trees to be treated or left and supervising the TSI work is included. 

After Situation:

The stand is treated to favor diversity of important commercial and wildlife species. The canopy is opened to the extent necessary to promote herbaceous growth and the 

work is performed without excessive damage to the residual trees and site.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,545.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,154.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 60 $381.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 40 $3,303.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 76 $1,814.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 46 $4,960.64

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Triazine 1321 Broad spectrum herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and 

active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $66.83 10 $668.30
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #90 - Creating Patch Clearcuts

Scenario Description:

Creating openings of 0.5 to 2 acres within degraded stands, or in older stands where regenerating young forest is lacking. A forester marks locations for patch creation so 

that young forest will regenerate in openings, and less-desirable groups of trees will be cut. Tree felling is accomplished with hand tools such as chainsaws. Resource 

concerns include: - Undesirable plant productivity and health; - Inadequate structure and composition; and - Wildlife habitat degradation.

Before Situation:

The existing stand is not regenerating to the desired species composition, and/or has been degraded by past harvesting practices. The trees currently on the site are of 

species or structure such that managing them will not achieve desired conditions in addressing resource concerns and meeting landowners' objectives. Site and tree 

species' attributes are such that creating openings will facilitate regeneration of shade-intolerant species.

After Situation:

The stand contains patches of new, young trees of desirable species, providing for wildlife that utilizes early-successional habitat within a matrix of mature forest. The 

activity improves a forest stand of 10 acres in size.

Feature Measure: Area treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,011.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $505.98

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 16 $101.76

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

Scenario: #91 - Heavy Equipment, Mechanical Treatment

Scenario Description:

Using equipment such as a masticator or mulcher to mechanically control vegetation that competes with desirable trees and/or species, or to reduce the density of a stand 

of desirable trees. The trees to be retained will be marked by a forester. Resource concerns include: - Undesirable plant productivity and health; - Wildlife habitat 

degradation; - Wildfire hazard; and - Inadequate structure and composition.

Before Situation:

A stand of desirable trees is adversely affected by competition from undesirable species and/or trees, or because the stand is excessively dense. The vegetation to be 

controlled is too large to be mowed and requires mechanized equipment such as masticators or mulchers.

After Situation:

The released stand of trees has a composition and structure that satisfies landowners' objectives and addresses the resource concerns.

Feature Measure: Area treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,027.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $702.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 30 $3,539.70

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 30 $1,098.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 15 $1,617.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: 670 - Energy Efficient Lighting System

Scenario: #2 - Lighting - LED

Scenario Description:

To install dimmable LEDs to replace incandescent lamps on a one-for-one basis. Light fixtures do not have to be replaced. A typical poultry house has 48 fixtures. LED 

requirements: minimum 6 Watt, 3700 Kelvin, dimmable, grow-out bulb; industrial grade; suitably protected from dirt accumulation. In high humidity environments or 

areas subject to wash down, gasketted or weatherproof housings are required to prevent corrosion and premature failure. 

Before Situation:

An inefficient lighting system such as one using incandescent lamps has been identified by an on-farm energy audit. 

After Situation:

More efficient lighting is provided by Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lamps in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit.Associated practices/activities: 122-

AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on nonrenewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of 

ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each lamp replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 0.17 $4.06

Materials

Lighting, bulb, LED, dimmable, 1167

minimum 450 lumens

Light Emitting Diode (LED), typically 3700 Kelvin, dimmable, grow-out 

bulb; industrial grade; suitably protected from dirt accumulation. 

Materials only.

Each $7.32 1 $7.32
Practice: 670 - Energy Efficient Lighting System

Scenario: #5 - Automatic Controller System

Scenario Description:

The typical scenario consists of an automatic control system installed on an existing manually controlled agricultural system. Typical components may include any of the 

following: wiring, sensors, data logger, logic controller, communication link, software, switches, and relay. 

Before Situation:

A manually controlled system is existing in an agricultural facility that causes the inefficient use of energy, as evidenced by an on-farm energy audit.

After Situation:

An on-farm energy audit has determined that energy use can be reduced through use of an automatic controller that helps regulates the energy consumption of the 

existing system. Associated practices/activities may include: 122-AgEMP - HQ, and other activities within 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is 

inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. 

Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each system

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $489.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $489.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Materials

Programable LED Dimmer 2720 Programable light dimmer/controller for poultry and hog barns - 

Includes material and shipping only

Each $361.78 1 $361.78
Practice: 670 - Energy Efficient Lighting System

Scenario: #14 - Lighting - Replace Existing Lighting Fixture with General or Low Bay LED Lighting

Scenario Description:

To install LED lighting fixtures used to provide ambient lighting levels in indoor or outdoor work areas on a one-for-one basis. Associated materials for installation of 

replacement fixtures are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required.

Before Situation:

An inefficient lighting system such as one using incandescent lamps has been identified by an on-farm energy audit.

After Situation:

More efficient lighting is provided by a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) flood lighting fixture in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. Some examples of 

general LED lighting fixtures include wall mounted LED wall pack fixtures, low intensity flood or ceiling mounted fixtures. Low bay lighting is typically used when ceilings 

are 20 feet or less in height. Low bay fixtures usually have diffuser mounted to the bottom of the fixture that serves to spread light over a large area. The typical fixture 

installed is a 50 watt light emitting diode (LED) with a 5000 Kelvin, 2,481 lumen flood lamp with an industrial grade fixture designed to withstand the environmental 

conditions where the system is installed. Associated practices/activities: CAP 128 AgEMP and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use 

of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any 

improvements are based on a CAP 128 Ag EMP or a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each Fixture replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $167.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $167.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Lighting, Fixture, Flood, LED, 2601

typically 4,000-8000 lumens, wet 

location

Light emitting diode (LED) fixture, typical output of 4,000 - 8,000 

lumens industrial grade with fixture; wet location; minimum 50,000 

hour lifespan. Includes materials only.

Watt $2.72 50 $136.00
Practice: 670 - Energy Efficient Lighting System

Scenario: #15 - Lighting - Replace Existing Lighting Fixture with Linear LED

Scenario Description:

'To install low energy linear LED lighting system to replace existing less efficient lighting fixtures on a one-for-one basis. Associated materials for installation of 

replacement fixtures are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required. '

Before Situation:

An inefficient lighting system such as one using incandescent lamps has been identified by an on-farm energy audit.

After Situation:

More efficient lighting is provided by a linear Light-Emitting Diode (LED) fixture in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. The typical fixture 

installed is a low energy linear LED system which includes lamps and a fixture designed to withstand the environmental conditions where the system is installed. 

Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which 

increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a CAP 122-Ag EMP - 

HQ or a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each fixture replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $85.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $85.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Lighting, LED (Linear) 2417 LED Strip/Shop Light - minimum 4000 Lumens; non-dimmable, dry 

location, 50,000 hour lifespan or greater. Materials and shipping only.

Each $53.35 1 $53.35
Practice: 670 - Energy Efficient Lighting System

Scenario: #16 - Lighting - Replace Existing Lighting Fixture with High Bay LED

Scenario Description:

To install high bay LED lighting system to replace existing less efficient lighting fixtures on a one-for-one basis. Associated materials for installation of replacement fixtures 

are included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required.

Before Situation:

An inefficient lighting system such as one using mercury vapor lighting fixtures has been identified by an on-farm energy audit.

After Situation:

More efficient lighting is provided by a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) fixture in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. High bay lighting is typically 

used when ceilings are 20 - 45 feet in height and where fixtures are mounted at the ceiling height instead of being suspended down to a lower level. High bay fixtures 

usually have an aluminum or mirror-like reflector which directs light downwards to the floor area or a prismatic reflector to spread light over larger areas. These are 

needed to ensure that the light reaches floor or working area level where it is needed. The typical fixture installed is a 150 watt light emitting diode (LED) with a 5000 

Kelvin, 14,000 lumens lamp with an industrial grade fixture designed to withstand the environmental conditions where the system is installed. Associated 

practices/activities: CAP 128 AgEMP and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases 

dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a CAP 128 Ag EMP or a Type 2 

energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Each fixture replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $234.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $234.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Lighting, Fixture, High Bay, LED, 2602

24,000 lumens, Damp Location

LED High Bay Fixture, typically 5000 Kelvin bulb, 24,000 lumens; 

industrial grade with fixture; suitably protected from dirt accumulation, 

and damp locations. Minimum lifespan of 50,000 hours. Includes 

materials only.

Each $202.41 1 $202.41
Practice: 670 - Energy Efficient Lighting System

Scenario: #17 - Lighting - Replace Existing Lighting Fixture with High Intensity LED Flood

Scenario Description:

To install LED flood lighting system to replace existing less efficient lighting fixtures on a one-for-one basis. Associated materials for installation of replacement fixtures are 

included. Appropriate disposal of existing lamps, ballasts and other materials is required.

Before Situation:

An inefficient lighting system such as one using incandescent lamps has been identified by an on-farm energy audit.

After Situation:

More efficient lighting is provided by a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) flood lighting fixture in order to reduce energy use as evidenced by the energy audit. The typical fixture 

installed is a 100 watt light emitting diode (LED) with a 5700 Kelvin, 4,000 lumens flood lamp with an industrial grade fixture designed to withstand the environmental 

conditions where the system is installed. Associated practices/activities: CAP 128 AgEMP and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use 

of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any 

improvements are based on a CAP 128 Ag EMP or a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: each fixture replaced

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $184.37

Scenario Cost/Unit: $184.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Lighting, Flood, LED Fixtures, 2390

Minimum 12,000 lumens, wet 

location

light emitting diode (LED) flood light and fixture, minimum of 12,000 

lumens, minimum lifespan of 50,000 hours; industrial grade with 

fixture; suitably protected from dirt accumulation and for wet location. 

Materials only.

Each $152.45 1 $152.45
Practice: 672 - Energy Efficient Building Envelope

Scenario: #1 - Building Envelope - Attic Insulation

Scenario Description:

Install a minimum R-7 insulation in addition to existing attic or ceiling to reduce heat transfer. Increased insulation reduces seasonal heat loss and heat gain which reduces 

the respective need for heating and cooling equipment to operate. 

Before Situation:

A poultry house with an inefficient building envelope with limited attic insulation. 

After Situation:

A more effective and efficient building envelope can be created through addition of, or increased, attic insulation. Associated practices/activities: 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-

Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources 

and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612. 

Feature Measure: Area of Attic Insulated

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 20,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,000.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Insulation, Fiberglass or cellulose, 1196

R-15

Fiberglass or cellulose insulation R-15, includes materials, equipment 

and labor to install.

Square Feet $0.95 20000 $19,000.00
Practice: 672 - Energy Efficient Building Envelope

Scenario: #2 - Building Envelope - Wall Insulation

Scenario Description:

Enclose both sidewalls and endwalls from ceiling to floor in one of two manners: 1) metal exterior, 3.5' fiberglass batts (R-11), vapor barrier, & interior plywood or OSB 

sheathing, or 2) closed-cell polyurethane foam application (minimum 1' thickness (R-7) of 2.5 lbs/cu.ft. or higher density, (3.0 or higher density preferred) with a form of 

physical protective barrier on lower 2' (may be 6 lbs/cu.ft. or higher density 1/8' thick foam, or treated lumber). Based on a 40' x 400' poultry house. 

Before Situation:

A poultry house with an inefficient building envelope with limited wall insulation. 

After Situation:

A more effective and efficient building envelope can be created through addition of, or increased, insulation. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ 

and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy 

sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Area of Attic Insulated

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 4,500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,250.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Insulation, Panel, R-11 with 1197

sheathing

Insulated wall panel typically 3.5 inch fiberglass batts (R-11), vapor 

barrier and OSB sheathing, or equal, includes materials, equipment and 

labor to install.

Square Feet $2.50 4500 $11,250.00
Practice: 672 - Energy Efficient Building Envelope

Scenario: #3 - Building Envelope - Sealant

Scenario Description:

A typical scenario is sealing the gaps between walls, gables, ceiling, etc. in a poultry house or greenhouse. Sealing is performed by a professional contractor, not merely 

use of spray foam from a can. The unit basis of payment in this scenario is each house based on 60' x 500' poultry house with an assumed need of sealant to seal 2400 

linear feet of gap.

Before Situation:

An agricultural facility with an inefficient building envelope with gaps between walls, ceiling, etc. for a total of 2400 linear feet.

After Situation:

A more effective and efficient building envelope can be created through interior sealing of the exterior walls at the footer plate, eaves, ridge cap, and gable ends. The 

sealant reduces seasonal heat loss and heat gain due to infiltration which reduces the respective need for heating and cooling equipment to operate. Associated 

practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in the farm operation which 

increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are based on a Type 2 energy audit 

meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Perimeter of heated structure

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,416.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Materials

Sealant 1150 Greenhouse and building gap sealant. Performed by a professional 

contractor spraying the areas with an approved sealant for poultry 

production facilities. Includes materials, equipment and labor to install.

Feet $1.84 2400 $4,416.00
Practice: 672 - Energy Efficient Building Envelope

Scenario: #5 - Greenhouse - Insulate Unglazed Walls

Scenario Description:

A typical scenario is the installation insulation in green house to address energy loss. The insulation can be either of the cellouse or bubble type (or equivalent). The 

increased insulation reduces seasonal heat loss and heat gain which reduces the respective need for heating and cooling equipment to operate. 

Before Situation:

Green house with standard glazing, plastic or polycarbonate walls and no insulation. Heating and cooling of an existing greenhouse is inefficient due to excessive heat loss. 

After Situation:

The greenhouse is fitted with insulation installed truss-to-truss or gutter-to-gutter and/or non glazed endwalls and/or sidewalls, reducing heat loss and gain in the 

greenhouse. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in 

the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are 

based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Square Feet of insulation

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 25,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,260.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Insulation, Greenhouse, 2410

Reflective Bubble

Double bubble reflective insulation with aluminum foil on both sides. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.39 25000 $9,750.00
Practice: 672 - Energy Efficient Building Envelope

Scenario: #58 - Building Envelope - Greenhouse Screens

Scenario Description:

The mechanical energy screen system consists of a drive motor, support cables, controls, and shade material, which may be woven, knitted, or non-woven strips of 

aluminum fiber, polyethylene, nylon or other synthetic material. The screen provides a means to better control solar heat gain and heat transfer during night or cold 

weather conditions to reduce energy use. Screens and similar devices may also be used to divide internal areas and allow for differentiated heating, ventilation, or cooling 

system operation to reduce energy use.

Before Situation:

Heating and cooling of an existing greenhouse, or similar structure with conditioned spaces, is inefficient due to poorly regulated heat transfer. A need to regulate an 

entire space for uniform conditions when some portions have differing, intermittent requirements can also reduce efficiency.

After Situation:

The greenhouse is fitted with a mechanically controlled energy screen installed truss-to-truss or gutter-to-gutter, with side screens as necessary, reducing heat loss in the 

greenhouse. Associated practices/activities: may include 122-AgEMP - HQ and 374-Farmstead Energy Improvement. The resource concern is inefficient use of energy in 

the farm operation which increases dependence on non-renewable energy sources and can be addressed through improved energy efficiency. Any improvements are 

based on a Type 2 energy audit meeting the requirements of ASABE S612.

Feature Measure: Area of Screen

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 25,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $77,010.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.08

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Thermal blanket 10,001 - 50,000 1148

square foot

Thermal blanket greenhouse screens: mechanical energy screen system 

consists of a drive motor, support cables, controls, and shade material, 

which may be woven, knitted, or non-woven. Size Range is 10,001 to 

50,000 square feet. Materials only.

Square Feet $3.06 25000 $76,500.00
Practice: 724 - Water Treatment Facility

Scenario: #1 - Reverse Osmosis

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a Reverse Osmosis unit to treat livestock water that exceeds the recommend maximum water quality criteria for livestock. The system 

will produce between 300 and 1500 gallons per hour of treated water from an existing water source to below the maximum recommend levels. Payment quantity based 

on the number of gallons per hour treated water produced by the system. The purpose of this practice is to address resource concerns related to water resources and 

proper grazing distribution. Scenario is needed where producer has a groundwater well with poor water quality. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting 

(342), Fence (382), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Livestock Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant (533), Water Well (642), Watering Facility (614)

Before Situation:

Deep wells can produce water that is either unsuitable for livestock consumption when the well test was completed or are becoming unsuitable after a few years of use. 

After Situation:

Cooperators see the benefit of the well water for livestock performance, grazing efficiency and grazing distribution which in turn improves soil health by redistributing 

important nutrients to the soil and improving organic matter implementation by hoof action, increased water infiltration and reduces water erosion on the soil surface.

Feature Measure: Treatment Facility

Scenario Unit: Gallons per Hour

Scenario Typical Size: 900.00

Scenario Total Cost: $23,008.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $25.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 4 $214.00

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Reverse Osmosis unit, fixed cost 2224

portion

Fixed cost portion of a reverse osmosis unit used for maple syrup 

processing. Materials only.

Each $3,390.60 1 $3,390.60

Reverse Osmosis unit, variable 2225

cost portion

Variable cost portion of a reverse osmosis unit used for maple syrup 

processing. Materials only.

Gallons per $18.94 900 $17,046.00

Hour

Pump House, Above Ground 2470 Above ground prefabricated pump house. Includes material and 

shipping only.

Each $1,018.18 1 $1,018.18
Practice: 724 - Water Treatment Facility

Scenario: #2 - Screen Filtration

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a screen filtration system to treat livestock water that exceeds the recommend maximum water quality criteria for livestock. The system 

will produce between 300 and 1500 gallons per hour of treated water from an existing water source to below the maximum recommend levels. Payment quantity based 

on a per each system installed. The purpose of this practice is to address resource concerns related to water resources and proper grazing distribution. Scenario is needed 

where producer has a groundwater well with poor water quality. Potential Associated Practices: Critical Area Planting (342), Fence (382), Heavy Use Area Protection 

(561), Livestock Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant (533), Water Well (642), Watering Facility (614)

Before Situation:

Deep wells can produce water that is either unsuitable for livestock consumption when the well test was completed or are becoming unsuitable after a few years of use. 

After Situation:

Cooperators see the benefit of the well water for livestock performance, grazing efficiency and grazing distribution which in turn improves soil health by redistributing 

important nutrients to the soil and improving organic matter implementation by hoof action, increased water infiltration and reduces water erosion on the soil surface.

Feature Measure: Treatment Facility

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,824.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,824.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 4 $214.00

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Pipe, PVC, dia. < 18 in., weight 1323

priced

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pressure rated pipe priced by the weight of the 

pipe materials for pipes with diameters less than 18 inch. Materials 

only.

Pound $2.37 71.5 $169.46

Micro Irrigation, screen filter, < 1617

100 gpm

Screen filter for Micro Irrigation used in small systems. Includes filter. 

No controls are included or needed.

Each $100.31 4 $401.24

Filter, effluent, municipal grade 2063 Effluent filter rated 8,000 to 10,000 gallons per day with 1/16 to 1/32 

inch filtration. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $484.88 4 $1,939.52
Practice: 724 - Water Treatment Facility

Scenario: #3 - High Temperature Reverse Osmosis

Scenario Description:

This scenario consists of installing a Reverse Osmosis unit to treat livestock water that exceeds the recommend maximum water quality criteria for livestock. The system 

will produce between 300 and 1500 gallons per hour of treated water from an existing high temperature water source to below the maximum recommend levels. 

Payment quantity based on the number of gallons per hour treated water produced by the system. The purpose of this practice is to address resource concerns related to 

water resources and proper grazing distribution. Scenario is needed where producer has a groundwater well with poor water quality. Potential Associated Practices: 

Critical Area Planting (342), Fence (382), Heavy Use Area Protection (561), Livestock Pipeline (516), Pumping Plant (533), Water Well (642), Watering Facility (614)

Before Situation:

Deep wells can produce water that is either unsuitable for livestock consumption when the well test was completed or are becoming unsuitable after a few years of use. 

After Situation:

Cooperators see the benefit of the well water for livestock performance, grazing efficiency and grazing distribution which in turn improves soil health by redistributing 

important nutrients to the soil and improving organic matter implementation by hoof action, increased water infiltration and reduces water erosion on the soil surface.

Feature Measure: Treatment Facility

Scenario Unit: Gallons per Hour

Scenario Typical Size: 900.00

Scenario Total Cost: $59,592.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $66.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Materials

Test, Standard Water Test, Well 309

Water

Well Water Suitability test. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $53.50 4 $214.00

Plate Cooler, 750 - 999 gal/hr 1178

capacity

Stainless Steel, dual pass plate cooler with 750 - 999 gallon/hour 

capacity. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $36,345.26 1 $36,345.26

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Reverse Osmosis unit, fixed cost 2224

portion

Fixed cost portion of a reverse osmosis unit used for maple syrup 

processing. Materials only.

Each $3,390.60 1 $3,390.60

Reverse Osmosis unit, variable 2225

cost portion

Variable cost portion of a reverse osmosis unit used for maple syrup 

processing. Materials only.

Gallons per $18.94 900 $17,046.00

Hour

Pump House, Above Ground 2470 Above ground prefabricated pump house. Includes material and 

shipping only.

Each $1,018.18 1 $1,018.18
Practice: 805 - Amending Soil Properties with Lime

Scenario: #5 - Low Rate Lime <= 2.0 Ton

Scenario Description:

Crop production is impacted by Soil pH. Lime will be applied based on cropping system and according to soil test recommendations to improve the soil physical, chemical, 

and biological properties.

Before Situation:

Producer has not used lime and as a result the soil pH is acidic and resulting in decrease in plant available nutrients, poor soil structure, soil health is reduced and poor 

crop production.

After Situation:

Plant productivity and heath is improved due to a increase in availability for applied nutrient and less nutrients being lost. Soil structure & Health will improve resulting 

improved water infiltration and less runoff.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $805.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $20.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 40 $372.80

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 2 $29.08
Practice: 805 - Amending Soil Properties with Lime

Scenario: #6 - Market/Gardens

Scenario Description:

Market/Garden production is impacted by Soil pH. Lime will be applied according to soil test recommendations to improve the soil physical, chemical, and biological 

properties.

Before Situation:

Producer has not used lime and as a result the soil pH is acidic and resulting in decrease in plant available nutrients, poor soil structure, soil health is reduced and poor 

crop production.

After Situation:

Plant productivity and heath is improved due to a increase in availability for applied nutrient and less nutrients being lost. Soil structure & Health will improve resulting 

improved water infiltration and less runoff.

Feature Measure: 1,000 square foot

Scenario Unit: 1,000 Square Foot

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $190.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 0.34 $3.17

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 3 $71.64

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 1 $14.54
Practice: 805 - Amending Soil Properties with Lime

Scenario: #13 - Lime Rate > 2.0 Ton

Scenario Description:

Biogeochemical function of the soil is impacted by Soil pH. Lime will be applied based on cropping system and according to soil test recommendations to improve the soil 

physical, chemical, and biological properties.

Before Situation:

Producer has not used lime and as a result the soil pH is acidic and resulting in decrease in plant available nutrients, poor soil structure, soil health is reduced and poor 

crop production.

After Situation:

Implementation according to the plans and specification has occurred. Plant productivity and heath is improved due to a increase in availability for applied nutrient and 

less nutrients being lost. Soil structure and health will improve resulting improved water infiltration and less runoff.

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,379.48

Scenario Cost/Unit: $34.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Lime application 953 Lime application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.32 80 $745.60

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 2 $29.08
Practice: 809 - Conservation Harvest Management

Scenario: #10 - Post-harvest woody residue retention

Scenario Description:

This scenario involves increasing and distributing woody residue from slash following timber harvest. This leaves woody organic materials on the soil surface for reduced 

soil moisture loss from evaporation. The scenario maximizes precipitation-use efficiency, increases drought resilience, and reduces wildfire intensity risk.

Before Situation:

Slash is piled and burned post-harvest.

After Situation:

The implementation requirements for 809, Conservation Harvest Management, are prepared and installed. Slash is distributed along the soil surface to provide a physical 

barrier and retains more soil moisture by reducing evaporation and capturing more precipitation as snow.

Feature Measure: Acres in Field

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $955.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.76

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20
Practice: 809 - Conservation Harvest Management

Scenario: #11 - Maximum Residue Height for Snow Capture

Scenario Description:

This scenario involves increasing standing stubble height in small grain crops and other crops such as canola, mustard, flax and safflower by removing only the seed portion 

at harvest with a stripper header. This leaves the maximum length of standing stubble anchored to the soil surface, thereby catching more snow, reducing soil moisture 

loss to evaporation, and increasing the amount of plant available moisture for the following crop. The scenario maximizes precipitation-use efficiency, increases drought 

resilience, improves the energy efficiency of field harvesting operations, and provides greater over-winter cover for wildlife. The scenario is used in conjunction with a notill disc drill and applied to both irrigated and non-irrigated fields. Residue is not baled or burned.

Before Situation:

Small grains and other crops are grown and harvested with a draper header mounted on a combine harvester. This type of header cuts the mature plant at 4 to 10 inches 

in height and spreads the remaining residue in a horizontal matt on the soil surface. This matt of straw can then hair-pin or get bent into the seed trench from the drill 

during seeding of the following crop. This hair-pinning reduces the seedling establishment of the following crop. In addition, lower stubble will not catch as much overwinter snowfall, which is vital for soil moisture recharge in semi-arid and arid climate zones. Because more straw is put through the combine harvester, the combine must 

operate at slower ground speeds, using more fuel per acre and creating more wear on the threshing machinery.

After Situation:

The implementation requirements for 809, Conservation Harvest Management, are prepared and installed. Small grains or other suitable crops are harvested with a 

stripper header mounted on a combine harvester. This type of header only removes the mature seed, leaving the standing residue. The tall stubble left after use of a 

stripper header is still vertically attached to the root structure and is not horizontally scattered across the field. This vertical stubble structure catches more snow over the 

winter, increases plant available moisture, causes little hair-pinning when no-till seeding the subsequent crop, and results in better crop stand establishment the following 

year. Because very little straw is put through the combine harvester, the combine can operate at faster ground speed, using less fuel per acre and creating less wear on the 

threshing machinery. A no-till disc drill is used in this system as the tall residue will plug-up other drill types. Residue is not baled or burned.

Feature Measure: Acres in Field

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,671.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $83.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripper Header 2786 Stripper header attachment that strips the grain or seed from the crop 

leaving the plant stem attached and standing. Does not include the 

power or other support equipment involved in the harvesting operation.

Acres $8.64 20 $172.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 25 $1,260.00
Practice: 810 - Annual Forages for Grazing Systems

Scenario: #24 - Annual forages mix

Scenario Description:

Seeding crop, pasture or grazing land to multi-species mix of annual grasses, legumes, forbs or similar species. This mix will address all the planned purposes of the Annual 

Forages for Grazing Systems (810) standard. Plant forage immediately after harvest of a row crop, small grain, or other forage. Seeding equipment typically used is 

available on-site. When applicable, terminate the annual forage using an approved method prior to planting a subsequent crop per the NRCS Cover Crop Termination.

Before Situation:

Existing forage stands do not meet the forage demands and or quality for grazing animals, particularly during periods of low forage production. Resource concerns include 

undesirable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion, and soil quality. In cases where poor quality or low yields exist in current 

annual pasture, annual forages replace the existing undesirable forage species and provides temporary forage and erosion control. This payment scenario is based on the 

no-till drilling of annual forages with no chemical applications.

After Situation:

Established annual forage mix improved livestock nutrition through improved forage quality and quantity, reduced erosion and improved soil condition. Over time, soil 

health is improved due to the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity introduced to the cropping or pasture system.

Feature Measure: acres of annual forages planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,901.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $95.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 20 $435.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: 810 - Annual Forages for Grazing Systems

Scenario: #26 - Annual forages mix

Scenario Description:

Seeding crop, pasture or grazing land to multi-species mix of annual grasses, legumes, forbs or similar species. This mix will address all the planned purposes of the Annual 

Forages for Grazing Systems (810) standard. Plant forage immediately after harvest of a row crop, small grain, or other forage. Seeding equipment typically used is 

available on-site. When applicable, terminate the annual forage using an approved method prior to planting a subsequent crop per the NRCS Cover Crop Termination.

Before Situation:

Existing forage stands do not meet the forage demands and or quality for grazing animals, particularly during periods of low forage production. Resource concerns include 

undesirable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion, and soil quality. In cases where poor quality or low yields exist in current 

annual pasture, annual forages replace the existing undesirable forage species and provides temporary forage and erosion control. This payment scenario is based on the 

no-till drilling of annual forages with no chemical applications.

After Situation:

Established annual forage mix improved livestock nutrition through improved forage quality and quantity, reduced erosion and improved soil condition. Over time, soil 

health is improved due to the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity introduced to the cropping or pasture system.

Feature Measure: acres of annual forages planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,901.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $95.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 20 $435.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: 810 - Annual Forages for Grazing Systems

Scenario: #27 - Annual forages mix

Scenario Description:

Seeding crop, pasture or grazing land to multi-species mix of annual grasses, legumes, forbs or similar species. This mix will address all the planned purposes of the Annual 

Forages for Grazing Systems (810) standard. Plant forage immediately after harvest of a row crop, small grain, or other forage. Seeding equipment typically used is 

available on-site. When applicable, terminate the annual forage using an approved method prior to planting a subsequent crop per the NRCS Cover Crop Termination.

Before Situation:

Existing forage stands do not meet the forage demands and or quality for grazing animals, particularly during periods of low forage production. Resource concerns include 

undesirable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed and forage for livestock, soil erosion, and soil quality. In cases where poor quality or low yields exist in current 

annual pasture, annual forages replace the existing undesirable forage species and provides temporary forage and erosion control. This payment scenario is based on the 

no-till drilling of annual forages with no chemical applications.

After Situation:

Established annual forage mix improved livestock nutrition through improved forage quality and quantity, reduced erosion and improved soil condition. Over time, soil 

health is improved due to the additional biomass, ground cover, soil infiltration, and plant diversity introduced to the cropping or pasture system.

Feature Measure: acres of annual forages planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,901.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $95.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 20 $435.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: 810 - Annual Forages for Grazing Systems

Scenario: #28 - Annual forages to Defer Grazing on Rangeland with FI

Scenario Description:

Seeding cropland to annual forages for grazing to offset the deferral of grazing on rangeland for up to one year to manage for invasive weeds/brush, increase fine fuel load 

for prescribed burning, improve the rangeland health and/or provide nesting habitat for wildlife species. This mix will address all the planned purposes of the Annual 

Forages for Grazing Systems (810) standard and provide adequate forage to meet livestock needs while they are excluded from the range or pasture. Plant forage 

immediately after harvest of a row crop, small grain, or other forage. Seeding equipment typically used is available on-site. When applicable, terminate the annual forage 

using an approved method prior to planting a subsequent crop per the NRCS Cover Crop Termination. Foregone income is provided to offset the cost of using cropland to 

produce annual forages.

Before Situation:

Degraded pasture or rangeland due to over-grazing or the encroachment of invasive weeds/brush has resulted in forage stands that do not meet the forage demands and 

or quality for grazing animals, particularly during periods of low forage production. Resource concerns include undesirable plant productivity and health, inadequate feed 

and forage for livestock, soil erosion, soil quality, and/or loss of wildlife habitat.

After Situation:

Established annual forage mix provides adequate forage to meet livestock needs while they are excluded from the range or pasture. Livestock exclusion allowed for the 

management of invasive weeds/brush and recovery of the pasture or rangeland resulting in improved forage production and rangeland health.

Feature Measure: Acres of Forage Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $15,810.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $395.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 40 $870.40

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 40 $14,099.20

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 -40 ($1,268.00)

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 20 $477.60

Materials

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 40 $1,631.60
Practice: 812 - Raised Beds

Scenario: #23 - Unframed Raised Bed field size < 0.10 acres Contamination or Debris Sites only

Scenario Description:

The soil at this site has characteristics that restrict the ability to grow food and fiber crops directly in the soil. The soil has heavy metal contaminants and/or buried debris 

from past activities on the site. The owner/operator desires to bring the site into agricultural production. Typical size of raised bed is 4ft x 16 ft and minimum 16 inches 

deep and less than 100 sq ft. Field size 0.10 Acres (4356 sq ft ) or less.

Before Situation:

Soils on site are unsuitable for agricultural production. Soil cannot be be remediated or debris cannot be removed practically.

After Situation:

Raised beds or mounds are created above the existing soil. Geomembrane may be used to separate plant roots from contacting soil contaminants. Raised beds are 

designed to meet the owner/operator objectives for overall size. Associated practices may include Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342).

Feature Measure: square feet of bed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 85.00

Scenario Total Cost: $374.09

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 3 $9.99

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 12 $24.96

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2745

topsoil

Purchased topsoil or screened loam. Material only. Cubic Yards $21.58 3 $64.74
Practice: 812 - Raised Beds

Scenario: #24 - Unframed Raised Bedfield size < 0.5 acres Contamination or Debris Sites only

Scenario Description:

The soil at this site has characteristics that restrict the ability to grow food and fiber crops directly in the soil. The soil has heavy metal contaminants and/or buried debris 

from past activities on the site. The owner/operator desires to bring the site into agricultural production. Bed area is 100 to 500 square feet. Raised bed size and shape 

varies. Field size up to 0.5 acres. NOT TO BE USED FOR RIDGE TILLAGE.

Before Situation:

Soils on site are unsuitable for agricultural production. Soil cannot be be remediated or debris cannot be removed practically.

After Situation:

Raised beds or mounds are created above the existing soil. Geomembrane may be used to separate plant roots from contacting soil contaminants. Raised beds are 

designed to meet the owner/operator objectives for overall size. Associated practices may include Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342).

Feature Measure: square feet per bed

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,013.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 22 $73.26

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 46 $95.68

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2745

topsoil

Purchased topsoil or screened loam. Material only. Cubic Yards $21.58 22 $474.76
Practice: 812 - Raised Beds

Scenario: #25 - Framed Raised Bed Small Lot Contamination or Debris Sites only

Scenario Description:

The soil at this site has characteristics that restrict the ability to grow food and fiber crops directly in the soil. The soil has heavy metal contaminants and/or buried debris 

from past activities on the site. The owner/operator desires to bring the site into agricultural production. Typical size of raised bed 4ft x 16 ft less than or equal to 100 sq 

ft. Field size 0.10 Acres or less.

Before Situation:

Soils on site are unsuitable for agricultural production. Soil cannot be be remediated or debris cannot be removed practically.

After Situation:

Raised beds or mounds are created above the existing soil. Geomembrane may be used to separate plant roots from contacting soil contaminants. Raised beds are 

designed to meet the owner/operator objectives for overall size. Associated practices may include Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342).

Feature Measure: sq ft

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 64.00

Scenario Total Cost: $893.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.96

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 3 $9.99

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 9 $18.72

Lumber, planks, posts and 1612

timbers, untreated, rot resistant

Untreated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches, milled from rot resistant species such as cedar. Includes lumber 

and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $4.84 108 $522.72

Steel, Structural Braces and 2497

Supports

Structural steel in various sizes and shapes. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Pound $1.54 2 $3.08

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2745

topsoil

Purchased topsoil or screened loam. Material only. Cubic Yards $21.58 3 $64.74
Practice: 812 - Raised Beds

Scenario: #26 - Framed Raised Bed < 500 sq ft Contamination or Debris Sites only

Scenario Description:

The soil at this site has characteristics that restrict the ability to grow food and fiber crops directly in the soil. The soil has heavy metal contaminants and/or buried debris 

from past activities on the site. The owner/operator desires to bring the site into agricultural production. Typical size of raised bed ranges from100 square feet to 500 

square feet. Field size 0.10 Acres or less.

Before Situation:

Soils on site are unsuitable for agricultural production. Soil cannot be be remediated or debris cannot be removed practically.

After Situation:

Raised beds or mounds are created above the existing soil. Geomembrane may be used to separate plant roots from contacting soil contaminants. Raised beds are 

designed to meet the owner/operator objectives for overall size. Associated practices may include Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342).

Feature Measure: sq ft

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,474.42

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 10 $33.30

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 22 $45.76

Lumber, planks, posts and 1612

timbers, untreated, rot resistant

Untreated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches, milled from rot resistant species such as cedar. Includes lumber 

and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $4.84 160 $774.40

Steel, Structural Braces and 2497

Supports

Structural steel in various sizes and shapes. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Pound $1.54 2 $3.08

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2745

topsoil

Purchased topsoil or screened loam. Material only. Cubic Yards $21.58 10 $215.80
Practice: 812 - Raised Beds

Scenario: #27 - Framed Raised Bed greater than or equal to 500 sq ft Contamination or Debris Sites only

Scenario Description:

The soil at this site has characteristics that restrict the ability to grow food and fiber crops directly in the soil. The soil has heavy metal contaminants and/or buried debris 

from past activities on the site. The owner/operator desires to bring the site into agricultural production. Typical size of raised bed ranges from 500 square feet to 2000 

square feet. Scenario assumes 16*50 ft bed size.

Before Situation:

Soils on site are unsuitable for agricultural production. Soil cannot be be remediated or debris cannot be removed practically.

After Situation:

Raised beds or mounds are created above the existing soil. Geomembrane may be used to separate plant roots from contacting soil contaminants. Raised beds are 

designed to meet the owner/operator objectives for overall size. Associated practices may include Trails and Walkways (575), Critical Area Planting (342).

Feature Measure: sq ft

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 800.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,453.21

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Earthfill, Dumped and Spread 51 Earthfill, dumped and spread without compaction effort, includes 

equipment and labor

Cubic Yards $3.33 40 $133.20

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Materials

Geotextile, non-woven, light 1209

weight

Non-woven less than 8 ounce/square yard geotextile with staple 

anchoring. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $2.08 35 $72.80

Lumber, planks, posts and 1612

timbers, untreated, rot resistant

Untreated dimension lumber with nominal thickness greater than 2 

inches, milled from rot resistant species such as cedar. Includes lumber 

and fasteners. Does not include labor.

Board Feet $4.84 352 $1,703.68

Steel, Structural Braces and 2497

Supports

Structural steel in various sizes and shapes. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Pound $1.54 2.5 $3.85

Earthfill Material, purchased, 2745

topsoil

Purchased topsoil or screened loam. Material only. Cubic Yards $21.58 40 $863.20
Practice: 821 - Low Tunnel Systems

Scenario: #19 - Low tunnel < 1000 square feet- Year 1

Scenario Description:

Garden or small farm grows annual crops including vegetables and other truck crops. Rows require a tunnel or floating cover to extend the growing season (early and late) 

or to protect from other environmental damage. Typical tunnel floats over crop or is supported by hoop or frame above crop. Tunnel cover is less than 48 inches above 

the soil. Typical row ranges in size from 30 inches by 200 feet up to 400 feet in length. Producer manages seasonal conditions such as soil temperature, exposure to early 

or late frost, and insects of food crops. Year 1 of implementation only.

Before Situation:

Crop production occurs within the zone growing season. Plant productivity and health is negatively impacted due to weather/environmental conditions delaying planting.

After Situation:

Row covers are applied and managed to improve plant health and productivity by controlling the micro-climate under the tunnel.

Feature Measure: area covered by tunnel

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,111.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.22

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 46 $2,318.40

Materials

Clear polyethylene plastic, 6.0 mil 2725 6.0 mil, UV-stabilized greenhouse clear plastic with anti-condensation 

coating.

Square Feet $0.14 600 $84.00

Netting, Crop Protection, Fine 2761

mesh

Synthetic netting fine mesh to exclude small insects. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.14 600 $84.00

Row Cover Hoops 2810 Galvanized wire hoops to create low tunnels, 9 or 10 gauge wire. 

Materials and shipping only.

Each $1.56 44 $68.64

Frost Blanket 2811 Heavy weight blanket, minimum 2 ounces per square yard, for frost 

protection. Materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.17 600 $102.00
Practice: 821 - Low Tunnel Systems

Scenario: #20 - Low tunnel management- Year 2-3

Scenario Description:

Garden or small farm grows annual crops including vegetables and other truck crops. Rows require a tunnel or floating cover to extend the growing season (early and late) 

or to protect from other environmental damage. Typical tunnel floats over crop or is supported by hoop or frame above crop. Tunnel cover is less than 48 inches above 

the soil. Producer manages seasonal conditions such as soil temperature, exposure to early or late frost, and insects of food crops. Year 2-3 of implementation.

Before Situation:

Crop production occurs within the zone growing season. Low tunnel system Year 1 was implemented. Producer is building skill to manage the tunnel coverings as needed 

during the growing season to improve plant productivity and health.

After Situation:

Row covers are applied and managed to improve plant health and productivity by controlling the micro-climate under the tunnel.

Feature Measure: area of tunnel

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $524.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 2 $232.78

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80
Practice: 821 - Low Tunnel Systems

Scenario: #21 - Low tunnel 1000-5000 square feet, Year 1

Scenario Description:

Garden or small farm grows annual crops including vegetables and other truck crops. Rows require a tunnel or floating cover to extend the growing season (early and late) 

or to protect from other environmental damage. Typical tunnel floats over crop or is supported by hoop or frame above crop. Tunnel cover is less than 48 inches above 

the soil. Typical row ranges in size from 30 inches by 500 feet up to 2000 feet in length. Producer manages seasonal conditions such as soil temperature, exposure to 

early or late frost, and insects of food crops. Year 1 of implementation only.

Before Situation:

Crop production occurs within the zone growing season. Plant productivity and health is negatively impacted due to weather/environmental conditions delaying planting.

After Situation:

Row covers are applied and managed to improve plant health and productivity by controlling the micro-climate under the tunnel.

Feature Measure: area covered by tunnel

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 3,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,869.07

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 46 $2,318.40

Materials

Clear polyethylene plastic, 6.0 mil 2725 6.0 mil, UV-stabilized greenhouse clear plastic with anti-condensation 

coating.

Square Feet $0.14 3000 $420.00

Netting, Crop Protection, Fine 2761

mesh

Synthetic netting fine mesh to exclude small insects. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.14 3000 $420.00

Row Cover Hoops 2810 Galvanized wire hoops to create low tunnels, 9 or 10 gauge wire. 

Materials and shipping only.

Each $1.56 203 $316.68

Frost Blanket 2811 Heavy weight blanket, minimum 2 ounces per square yard, for frost 

protection. Materials and shipping only.

Square Feet $0.17 3000 $510.00
Practice: 827 - Strategic Harvested Forage Management

Scenario: #2 - Strategic Harvested Forage Management - High Density

Scenario Description:

Bale grazing to improve organic matter, aggregate stability or soil organism habitat. Grazing forages in this manner, will help reduce nutrient concentrations from 

confined animal lots while incorporating organic matter, feeding and diversifying the soil microbiome, building better soil aggregation and increasing soil health. Grazing 

in this manner increases carbon and nutrients in the soil, this improves plant health, vigor, and quality.

Before Situation:

Plant health and vigor are negatively impacted by one or more of the following: poor grazing distribution, timing of grazing and inadequate rest and recovery periods. 

Bare soil is prevalent and is impacting organic matter, aggregate stability and soil organism habitat. Lack of carbon to feed the biology is decreasing nutrient cycling for 

plants impacting their health and vigor. Water quality may be impacted by increased runoff and erosion. In addition, reduced vegetative cover increases the opportunity 

for encroachment of noxious and invasive weeds.

After Situation:

Animals will graze bales where they are placed in the field. Bales will be placed at different locations each week. Bale grazing will not occur on the same acres each year. 

After bale grazing is completed grazing on areas will be according to 528 standard. Benefits include improved rangeland and/or pasture health, decrease bare ground, 

improved soil biological habitat, adequate rest and recovery periods, protection of sensitive areas, improved water quality and reduced risk of invasive or noxious weed 

encroachment.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,489.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $224.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 20 $1,516.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 20 $366.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Trailer, flatbed, small 1505 Small flatbed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a pickup 

to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $10.46 20 $209.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20
Practice: B000BFF1 - Buffer Bundle#1

Scenario: #1 - Buffer Bundle#1

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife inadequate habitat, and/or air quality impacts.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,408.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,469.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 7 $47.53

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 6 $220.08

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 10 $183.00

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 10 $125.10

Mechanical tree planter 1600 Mechanical tree planter. Requires a pulling unit of either tractor or 

small dozer depending upon site conditions. Does not include labor.

Hours $6.02 6 $36.12

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1.23 $433.55

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1.08 $288.31

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.69 $135.23

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 6 $186.84

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials
Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 5 $56.70

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 5 $8.05

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 341 $603.57

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 2518 $5,086.36

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 1 $61.36

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 1 $272.59

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: B000CPL10 - YEAR 1 Irrigated Cropland (MRBI/Ogallala)

Scenario: #9 - YEAR 1 Irrigated Cropland (MRBI/Ogallala)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, insufficient water, soil erosion, and inefficient energy.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,352.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $133.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 30 $768.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 19 $606.48

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 41 $4,421.44

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 3 $1,940.19

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: B000CPL11 - YEAR 2+ Irrigated Cropland (MRBI/Ogallala)

Scenario: #9 - YEAR 2+ Irrigated Cropland (MRBI/Ogallala)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, insufficient water, and soil erosion.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,722.95

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.23

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 41 $1,308.72

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80
Practice: B000CPL12 - Non-Irrigated Precision Ag (MRBI)

Scenario: #9 - Non-Irrigated Precision Ag (MRBI)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, soil quality, and soil erosion.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,135.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.35

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, precision application 949 Chemical application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $8.83 100 $883.00

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 9 $970.56

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 35 $508.90

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80
Practice: B000CPL13 - Non-Irrigated Cropland (MRBI)

Scenario: #9 - Non-Irrigated Cropland (MRBI)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, soil quality, and soil erosion.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,418.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $34.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 10 $1,078.40

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80
Practice: B000CPL14 - YEAR 1 Irrigated Precision Ag Cropland (MRBI)

Scenario: #9 - YEAR 1 Irrigated Precision Ag Cropland (MRBI)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, insufficient water, soil erosion, and inefficient energy.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,612.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $136.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 30 $768.00

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 19 $606.48

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 41 $4,421.44

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 35 $508.90

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 3 $1,940.19

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: B000CPL15 - YEAR 2+ Irrigated Precision Ag Cropland (MRBI)

Scenario: #9 - YEAR 2+ Irrigated Precision Ag Cropland (MRBI)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, insufficient water, and soil erosion.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,983.70

Scenario Cost/Unit: $49.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 41 $1,308.72

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 35 $508.90

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80
Practice: B000CPL16 - Non-Irrigated Cropland with Water Bodies (MRBI)

Scenario: #9 - Non-Irrigated Cropland with Water Bodies (MRBI)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, soil erosion, and soil quality

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,294.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42.95

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 9 $970.56

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 2 $85.78

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 2 $269.94
Practice: B000CPL17 - Non-Irrigated Cropland with Water Bodies Riparian Forest Buffer (MRBI)

Scenario: #9 - Non-Irrigated Cropland with Water Bodies Riparian Forest Buffer (MRBI)

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, soil erosion, and soil quality

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,361.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $83.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 18 $460.80

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2 $63.78

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 9 $970.56

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66
Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 872 $1,761.44

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 100 $529.00

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 100 $216.00

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000CPL18 - Crop Bundle #18 - Precision Ag

Scenario: #9 - Crop Bundle #18 - Precision Ag

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, fish and wildlife inadequate habitat, air quality impairment, and either soil erosion or soil quality degradation resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,216.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $42.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, precision application 949 Chemical application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $8.83 100 $883.00

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.17 $59.92

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.17 $45.38

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.17 $33.32

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 35 $508.90

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80
Practice: B000CPL19 - Crop Bundle #19 - Soil Health Precision Ag

Scenario: #9 - Crop Bundle #19 - Soil Health Precision Ag

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, soil quality degradation, fish and wildlife inadequate habitat, and insufficient water resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,055.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $40.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, precision application 949 Chemical application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $8.83 100 $883.00

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 13 $1,401.92

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 35 $508.90

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 1 $272.59
Practice: B000CPL20 - Crop Bundle #20 - Soil Health Assessment

Scenario: #9 - Crop Bundle #20 - Soil Health Assessment

Scenario Description:

Addresses water quality degradation, soil quality degradation, fish and wildlife inadequate habitat, and insufficient water resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,772.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $37.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 16 $1,725.44

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 15 $218.10

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 1 $272.59
Practice: B000CPL21 - Crop Bundle #21 - Crop Bundle (Organic)

Scenario: #9 - Crop Bundle #21 - Crop Bundle (Organic)

Scenario Description:

Addresses soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, and degraded plant condition resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,353.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $63.53

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 10 $183.00

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 10 $125.10

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 9 $970.56

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34
Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 341 $603.57

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 340 $686.80

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 1 $61.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: B000CPL22 - Crop Bundle #22 - Erosion Bundle (Organic)

Scenario: #9 - Crop Bundle #22 - Erosion Bundle (Organic)

Scenario Description:

Addresses soil quality degradation, water quality degradation, soil erosion, and fish and wildlife inadequate habitat resource concerns.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: acres of cropland where enhancem

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,186.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 13 $414.96

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 1 $272.59
Practice: B000CPL23 - Crop Bundle #23 - Pheasant and quail habitat

Scenario: #3 - Crop Bundle #23 - Pheasant and quail habitat

Scenario Description:

Addresses wildlife inadequate habitat, water quality degradation and/or air quality impacts, and soil health and/or degraded plant condition.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied as part of the bundle.

After Situation:

The adoption of these enhancements will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: Acres where the bundle is impleme

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,460.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $61.51

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 1 $272.59
Practice: B000CPL24 - Crop Bundle #24 - Cropland Soil Health Management System

Scenario: #9 - Crop Bundle #24- Cropland Soil Health Management System

Scenario Description:

Addresses soil health, water quality (or water quality and air quality), and either soil erosion, soil compaction, or plant pest pressure.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied as part of the bundle.

After Situation:

The adoption of these enhancements will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,999.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 2 $252.30
Practice: B000CPL25 - Climate Smart Advanced Soil Health

Scenario: #9 - Crop Land Bundle# 25- Climate Smart Advanced Soil Health

Scenario Description:

Improve crop land soil health by minimizing soil disturbance, PAMS pest management, building soil organic matter, providing habitat and reducing nutrient and pesticide 

loss to water.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied as part of the bundle.

After Situation:

The adoption of these enhancements will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acres applied

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,640.43

Scenario Cost/Unit: $146.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 100 $1,454.00

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 100 $679.00

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 100 $2,176.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 11 $351.12

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 17 $1,833.28

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 100 $6,136.00

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 1 $126.15

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: B000FST1 - Forest Bundle#1

Scenario: #1 - Forest Bundle#1

Scenario Description:

?Addresses forest management on sites that are not adapted to natural fire disturbances. Addresses resouce concerns air quality impacts, degraded plant condition and 

fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $29,084.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,454.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 36 $228.96

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 21 $537.60

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 16 $1,887.84

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 50 $4,129.50

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 4 $73.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 69 $863.19

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 69 $1,647.72

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 14 $705.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 37 $3,990.08

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 10 $145.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 15 $185.85

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 6 $75.96

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 11 $212.08
Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 6 $68.04

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 6 $9.66

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 150 $265.50

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 1225 $1,225.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 1225 $8,170.75

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 3675 $257.25

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. 1577 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.01 1225 $1,237.25

Certified Organic, Annual Grasses, 2343

Legumes and/or Forbs

Annual grasses, mostly introduced but may be native. Used for 

temporary cover or cover crops. Certified organic. Includes material 

and shipping only.

Acres $76.06 3 $228.18

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000FST2 - Forest Bundle #2 - Post-fire Management

Scenario: #11 - Forest Bundle #2 - Post-fire Management

Scenario Description:

Forest stand improvement that improves forest health to reduce the risk of wildfire and wildlife habitat. Addresses air quality impacts, degraded plant condition, and 

fish/wildlife inadequate habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of these enhancements will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,602.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,060.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 28 $3,303.72

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 30 $2,477.70

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 28 $871.92

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 19 $2,048.96

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 30 $1,286.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000FST3 - Forest Bundle #3

Scenario: #9 - B000FST3 - Forest Bundle #3

Scenario Description:

Forest stand improvement that improves forest health due to poor logging practices. Addresses soil organic matter depletion, degraded plant condition, and inadequate 

fish/wildlife habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of these enhancements will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,242.23

Scenario Cost/Unit: $512.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 27 $171.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 43 $3,551.37

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 20 $366.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 59 $1,883.28

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1.5 $75.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 21 $2,264.64

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 10 $145.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 15 $185.85

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 1 $19.28

Herbicide, Triazine 1321 Broad spectrum herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and 

active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $66.83 10 $668.30

Certified Organic, Perennial 2340

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs

Perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, mostly introduced but may be 

native, may include biennials. Used for permanent plantings such as 

pastures. Certified organic. Includes material and shipping only.

Acres $88.02 3 $264.06

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000FST4 - Forest Bundle #4

Scenario: #9 - B000FST4 - Forest Bundle #4

Scenario Description:

Forest management to improve sugar maple stands. Addresses soil organic matter depletion, degraded plant condition, and inadequate fish/wildlife habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,956.47

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,297.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 33 $209.88

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 16 $1,887.84

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 50 $4,129.50

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 36 $450.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 33 $1,053.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 44 $1,050.72

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 40 $4,313.60

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 10 $145.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 15 $185.85

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1.5 $18.99

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 10 $192.80
Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1.5 $17.01

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1.5 $2.42

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 340 $2,648.60

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 360 $3,135.60

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 360 $2,401.20

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 360 $25.20

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 360 $874.80

Certified Organic, Perennial 2340

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs

Perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, mostly introduced but may be 

native, may include biennials. Used for permanent plantings such as 

pastures. Certified organic. Includes material and shipping only.

Acres $88.02 3 $264.06

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: B000FST5 - Forest Bundle #5 Climate Smart Increase Carbon Storage

Scenario: #9 - B000FST5 - Forest Bundle # 5: Increase Carbon Sequestration & Storage

Scenario Description:

Improve forest and tree health, enhance wildlife, and reduce soil erosion to support climate change mitigation. Build carbon stocks by increasing sequestration and 

storage.

Before Situation:

Resources are enhanced above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the bundle.

After Situation:

The adoption of this bundle will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $25,043.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,504.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 44 $279.84

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 23 $588.80

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 8 $943.92

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 41 $3,386.19

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 54 $675.54

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 48 $1,532.16

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 54 $1,289.52

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 9 $453.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 38 $4,097.92

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 10 $145.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 20 $247.80

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 10 $428.90

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 11 $212.08
Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 5 $56.70

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 5 $8.05

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 1075 $1,075.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 1075 $7,170.25

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 3225 $225.75

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. 1577 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.01 1075 $1,085.75

Certified Organic, Annual Grasses, 2343

Legumes and/or Forbs

Annual grasses, mostly introduced but may be native. Used for 

temporary cover or cover crops. Certified organic. Includes material 

and shipping only.

Acres $76.06 3 $228.18

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000GRZ1 - Grazing Bundle 1 - Range and Pasture

Scenario: #9 - Grazing Bundle 1 - Range and Pasture

Scenario Description:

This bundle addresses soil erosion, degraded plant condition, and fish and wildlife inadequate habitat resource concerns through adoption of enhancements E528L, E315A, 

and E645A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,746.44

Scenario Cost/Unit: $93.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 24 $614.40

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 24 $349.44

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 10 $317.00

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 58 $1,385.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000GRZ2 - Grazing Bundle 2 - Range and Pasture

Scenario: #9 - Grazing Bundle 2 - Range and Pasture

Scenario Description:

This bundle addresses water quality degradation, fish and wildlife inadequate habitat, and soil erosion resource concerns through adoption of enhancements E472A, 

E382A, and E580A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 3.50

Scenario Total Cost: $8,793.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,512.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5 $49.90

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 13 $332.80

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 5 $183.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 9 $164.70

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 8 $116.48

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 8 $100.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 81 $1,934.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00

Vinyl Undersill Strips 241 Marking material using the undersill strips of vinyl siding. Priced per 

foot of fence per each wire. Materials only.

Feet $0.11 2000 $220.00

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 2 $456.34

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 65 $506.35

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 65 $566.15

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 65 $497.90
Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 65 $100.10

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 65 $163.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 65 $343.85

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 195 $421.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000GRZ3 - Grazing Bundle 3 - Range and Pasture

Scenario: #9 - Grazing Bundle 3 - Range and Pasture

Scenario Description:

This bundle addresses water quality degradation, fish and wildlife inadequate habitat, and soil erosion resource concerns through adoption of enhancements E472A, 

E390B, and E580A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 6.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,914.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,652.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5 $49.90

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 13 $332.80

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 4 $27.16

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 5 $183.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 8 $116.48

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 8 $100.08

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 81 $1,934.28

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00
Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 4 $171.56

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 2 $456.34

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 65 $506.35

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 65 $566.15

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 65 $497.90

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 65 $100.10

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 65 $163.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 65 $343.85

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 195 $421.20

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 2 $545.18

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000GRZ4 - Grazing Bundle 4 - Range and Pasture

Scenario: #9 - Grazing Bundle 4 - Range and Pasture

Scenario Description:

This bundle addresses water quality degradation, fish and wildlife inadequate habitat, and soil erosion resource concerns through adoption of enhancements E472A, 

E391C, and E580A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,989.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,247.33

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5 $49.90

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 29 $742.40

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2 $63.78

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 9 $330.12

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 8 $116.48

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 24 $300.24

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 99 $2,364.12

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 9 $280.26

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 12 $604.80

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00
Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 2 $456.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 872 $1,761.44

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 65 $506.35

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 65 $497.90

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 65 $100.10

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 65 $163.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 165 $872.85

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 295 $637.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: B000GRZ5 - Grazing Bundle 5 - Range and Pasture

Scenario: #9 - Grazing Bundle 5 - Range and Pasture

Scenario Description:

This bundle addresses livestock production limitation, degraded plant condition, and fish and wildlife inadequate habitat resource concerns through adoption of 

enhancements E528A, E315A, and E645A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,050.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,701.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 28 $716.80

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 24 $349.44

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 36 $1,141.20

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 65 $1,552.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: B000LLP1 - Longleaf Pine Bundle#1

Scenario: #1 - Longleaf Pine Bundle#1

Scenario Description:

?Improves conifer forest health through prescribed burning and grazing management. Addresses water quality degredation, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife 

inadequate habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 110.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,091.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $119.01

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5 $49.90

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 7 $44.52

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 24 $614.40

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2 $63.78

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 9 $330.12

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 3 $247.77

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 2 $25.94

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 12 $380.40

Month

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 55 $1,755.60

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 53 $1,265.64

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 9 $280.26

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 14 $705.60
Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 1 $19.28

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 2 $456.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 872 $1,761.44

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 100 $529.00

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 100 $216.00

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 5 $18.55

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: B000LLP2 - Longleaf Pine Bundle#2

Scenario: #1 - Longleaf Pine Bundle#2

Scenario Description:

Improves conifer forest health through prescribed burning and forest stand management. Addresses air quality impacts, degraded plant condition, and fish/wildlife 

inadequate habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $17,835.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $356.71

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 67 $426.12

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 42 $1,075.20

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 16 $1,887.84

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 19 $1,569.21

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 24 $349.44

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 2 $25.94

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 83 $2,649.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 50 $1,194.00

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 44 $4,744.96

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 5 $61.95

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 1 $19.28

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 5 $18.55
Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: B000LLP4 - Longleaf Pine Bundle #4

Scenario: #9 - Longleaf Pine Bundle #4

Scenario Description:

Improves forest health and wildlife habitat through conversion of forest stands that are not predominantly longleaf pine. Addresses degraded plant condition, fish/wildlife 

inadequate food and habitat, and water quality.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of the conservation practice standards applied.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,633.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $392.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 157 $998.52

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 18 $460.80

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 20 $2,359.80

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 10 $67.90

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 23 $1,899.57

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 2 $25.94

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 173 $5,522.16

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 44 $4,744.96

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 1 $19.28

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 5 $18.55

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.882 $1,543.76
Practice: B000PST5 - Pasture Bundle 5

Scenario: #9 - Pasture Bundle #5

Scenario Description:

Implementation of site specific strategies applied to range or pasture land uses through adoption of the following CSP enhancements: E528J, E315A, and E645A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

Adoption of these bundled enhancements provides a combined benefit for resource protection that exceeds the minimum level for the associated practice standards in 

order to address the resource concerns Soil Erosion or Water Quality Degradation, Degraded Plant Condition, and Fish and Wildlife Inadequate Habitat.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 60.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,858.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $64.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 24 $614.40

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 6 $109.80

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 24 $349.44

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 6 $190.20

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 56 $1,337.28

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 4 $180.80

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11
Practice: B000PSTX - Pasture Bundle #6 - Pasture

Scenario: #6 - Pasture Bundle #6

Scenario Description:

Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals for the purposes of maintaining desired pasture composition/plant vigor and 

improving/maintaining quantity and quality of forage for the animals' health and productivity following the recommendations of a qualifying professional, as detailed in 

the documentation and implementation requirements. Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of perennial, herbaceous species that can 

provide the structure and composition needed to enhance livestock and wildlife habitat, particularly when targeted forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not 

available in other pastures.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing. Resources are protected at the minimum level of the 

Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Pasture and Hay Planting. Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 315-

Herbaceous Weed Treatment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed 

Grazing. The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Pasture 

and Hay Planting. The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 315-

Herbaceous Weed Treatment.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,766.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $97.67

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 25 $640.00

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 4 $58.24

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 36 $1,141.20

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 5 $119.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 4 $180.80

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11

Nutritional Balance Analyzer, 1127

fecal sample analysis only

NIRS fecal analysis, animal performance report. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $46.07 6 $276.42

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 100 $4,776.00
Practice: B000RNG4 - Range Bundle 4

Scenario: #9 - Range Bundle #4

Scenario Description:

Implementation of site specific strategies applied to range through adoption of the following CSP enhancements: E528N, E315A, and E645A.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation practice standard(s) applied as part of the enhancement.

After Situation:

Adoption of these bundled enhancements provides a combined benefit for resource protection that exceeds the minimum level for the associated practice standards in 

order to address the resource concerns Soil Erosion, Degraded Plant Condition, and Fish and Wildlife Inadequate Habitat.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,272.53

Scenario Cost/Unit: $85.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 24 $614.40

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 24 $349.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 58 $1,385.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #9 - Single Enterprise-Low

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for one land use by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. This typical 

scenario involves one agricultural enterprise and a.) 1 Land use with less than or equal to 4 priority resource concerns, OR b.) 2-3 Land Uses with less than or equal to two 

priority resource concern categories per land use.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 

one land use and each land management system.

After Situation:

TSP conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements ofE199A Guide sheet and meets Conservation Plan CPA 199 or applicable conservation 

activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,088.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,088.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 10 $1,085.10

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 8 $853.76

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 60 $5,149.20
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #25 - Single Enterprise-Medium

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for one land use by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. This typical 

scenario involves one agricultural enterprise and a.) 1 Land Use with greater than 4 priority resource concerns, OR b.) 2-3 Land Use with 3 to 4 priority resource concern 

categories per land use, OR c.) 4 or more Land Use with less than or equal to 2 priority resource concerns.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 

one land use and each land management system.

After Situation:

TSP conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements ofE199A Guide sheet and meets Conservation Plan CPA 199 or applicable conservation 

activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,231.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,231.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 10 $1,085.10

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 12 $1,280.64

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 80 $6,865.60
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #41 - Single Enterprise-High

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for one land use by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. This typical 

scenario involves one agricultural enterprise and a.) 2-3 Land Use with 4 or more priority resource concern categories per land use, OR b.) 4 or more Land Use with 3 to 4 

priority resource concerns.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 

one land use and each land management system.

After Situation:

TSP conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements ofE199A Guidesheet and meets Conservation Plan CPA 199 or applicable conservation 

activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $11,401.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11,401.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 30 $3,255.30

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 12 $1,280.64

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 80 $6,865.60
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #57 - Multiple Enterprise-Medium

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for one land use by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. This typical 

scenario involves two or more agricultural enterprises and a.) 1 Land Use with up to 4 priority resource concerns, OR b.) 2-3 Land Use with 1 to 2 priority resource concern 

categories per land use.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 

one land use and each land management system.

After Situation:

TSP conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements ofE199A Guide sheet and meets Conservation Plan CPA 199 or applicable conservation 

activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $12,686.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12,686.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 30 $3,255.30

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 90 $7,723.80
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #73 - Multiple Enterprise-High

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for one land use by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. This typical 

scenario involves two or more agricultural enterprises and a.) 2-3 Land Use with 3 to 4 priority resource concern categories per land use, OR b.) 2-3 Land Use with 4 or 

more priority resource concerns, OR c.) 4 or more Land Use with any amount of priority resource concerns

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 

one land use and each land management system.

After Situation:

TSP conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements ofE199A Guide sheet and meets Conservation Plan CPA 199 or applicable conservation 

activities CPA 102 CNMP or CPA 106 Forestry Plan.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $14,629.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14,629.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, agronomist 1295 Conservation Activity Plan labor to conduct research in breeding, 

physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and 

agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in 

soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, 

and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop 

growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative 

practices on soil and crop productivity. May provide on-site consulting 

services to help growers troubleshoot nutrient and pest problems, 

establish appropriate agronomic sampling programs and implement 

management recommendations in a cost-effective and environmentally 

sound manner.

Hours $108.51 40 $4,340.40

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 16 $1,707.52

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 100 $8,582.00
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #89 - Comprehensive Conservation Plan for Operation with > 2 land uses and 2 or more resource concerns

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for the identified land uses by each land management system included in each of the producer???s 

operations. Does not include livestock waste storage planning or evaluation of existing components.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for all 

land uses and each land management system for each enterprise or farm operation.

After Situation:

Planner conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements of E199A Guidesheet.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,857.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,857.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 8 $853.76

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 35 $3,003.70
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #105 - Comprehensive Conservation Plan on 2 or more Land Use

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for the identified land uses by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. Does 

not include livestock waste storage planning or evaluation of existing components.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 2 

land uses and each land management system for each enterprise or farm operation.

After Situation:

Planner conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements of E199A Guidesheet.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,428.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,428.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 8 $853.76

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 30 $2,574.60
Practice: E199A - Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Scenario: #121 - Basic Comprehensive Conservation Plan-One Land Use

Scenario Description:

Conservation plan developed by a Technical Service Provider (TSP) for a participant enrolled in a contract through the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). NRCS will 

use the Conservation Assessment and Ranking Tool (CART) to identify all State priority resource concern categories (PRCCs) that the TSP must include in the CSP CCP. TSP 

develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for one land use by each land management system included in the producer???s operation. Does not include 

livestock waste storage planning or evaluation of existing components.

Before Situation:

NRCS has identified priority resource concern categories that have not met stewardship thresholds. State priority resource concern categories need to be evaluated for 

one land use and each land management system.

After Situation:

Planner conducts an on-site inventory of all land uses and land management systems in the producer???s operation. Assessment for each priority resource concern is 

completed by land use. Conservation practices, enhancements or bundles are identified. Develops a minimum of one conservation system alternative for each land use 

that meet the producer's objectives. Plan document follows the requirements ofE199A Guidesheet.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,570.16

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,570.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

CAP Labor, professional engineer 1297 Conservation Activity Plan labor to apply knowledge of engineering 

technology and biological science to agricultural problems concerned 

with power and machinery, electrification, structures, soil and water 

conservation, and processing of agricultural products. Cost associated 

with this component includes overhead and benefits (market price).

Hours $106.72 8 $853.76

Cap Labor, conservation scientist 1300 Conservation Activity Plan labor to manage, improve, and protect 

natural resources to maximize their use without damaging the 

environment. Interprets resource information and assess resource 

conditions to provide conservation practice alternatives to producers to 

make decisions on the treatment of their soil, water, air, plant, animal, 

and energy resources. May instruct farmers, agricultural production 

managers, or ranchers in best ways to use crop rotation, contour 

plowing, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and 

kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and 

in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for 

stock watering.

Hours $85.82 20 $1,716.40
Practice: E314A - Brush management to improve wildlife habitat

Scenario: #1 - Brush management to improve wildlife habitat

Scenario Description:

Brush management is employed to create a desired plant community, consistent with the related ecological site steady state, which will maintain or enhance the wildlife 

habitat desired for the identified wildlife species. It will be designed to provide plant structure, density and diversity needed to meet those habitat objectives. This 

enhancement does not apply to removal of woody vegetation by prescribed fire or removal of woody vegetation to facilitate a land use change.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 314 - Brush Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 314 - Brush 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,921.43

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.21

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 12 $380.40

Month

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 32 $1,021.44

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20
Practice: E315A - Herbaceous weed treatment to create plant communities consistent with the ecological site

Scenario: #1 - Herbaceous weed treatment to create plant communities consistent with the ecological site

Scenario Description:

Mechanical, chemical, or biological, herbaceous weed treatment will be employed to control targeted, herbaceous weeds so as to create, release, or restore desired plant 

communities that are consistent with achievable, ecological site, steady state descriptions. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 315 - Herbaceous Weed Control

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 315 - Herbaceous Weed 

Control

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $165.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.52

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18
Practice: E327A - Conservation cover for pollinators and beneficial insects

Scenario: #10 - Conservation cover for pollinators and beneficial insects

Scenario Description:

Seed or plug nectar and pollen producing plants in non-cropped areas such as field borders, vegetative barriers, contour buffer strips, grassed waterways, shelterbelts, 

hedgerows, windbreaks, conservation cover, and riparian forest and herbaceous buffers.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 327 Conservation Cover.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 327 Conservation Cover.

Feature Measure: acre planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $27,013.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $540.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 11 $281.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 8 $255.12

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 50 $1,104.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 50 $23,490.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: E327B - Establish Monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario: #1 - Establish Monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario Description:

Seed or plug milkweed (Asclepias spp.), and high-value monarch butterfly nectar plants on marginal cropland, field borders, contour buffer strips, and similar areas.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 327 - Conservation Cover

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 327 - Conservation 

Cover

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $885.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $885.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 1 $31.89

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: E328A - Resource conserving crop rotation

Scenario: #1 - Resource conserving crop rotation

Scenario Description:

Establish a Resource Conserving Crop Rotation. Rotation must include AT LEAST one resource conserving crop as determined by the State Conservationist in a minimum 

three year crop rotation. The crop rotation will reduce soil erosion (water and wind), improve soil health, improve soil moisture efficiency, and reduce plant pest pressures.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,509.76

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 14 $1,509.76
Practice: E328B - Improved resource conserving crop rotation

Scenario: #1 - Improved resource conserving crop rotation

Scenario Description:

Improve an existing Resource Conserving Crop Rotation. Must enrich an existing rotation which already includes AT LEAST one resource conserving crop as determined by 

the State Conservationist in a minimum three year crop rotation. The crop rotation will reduce soil erosion (water and wind), improve soil health, improve soil moisture 

efficiency, and reduce plant pest pressures.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $539.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E328C - Conservation crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover

Scenario: #1 - Conservation crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover for water erosion

Scenario Description:

Implement a crop rotation management system on crop land acres that have recently converted from CRP grass/legume conservation cover to annual planted crops. Crop 

rotation minimizes disturbance resulting in a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) less than 10 and reduces soil erosion from water or wind to below soil tolerance (T) level. 

The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document the rotation, soil erosion estimate, and STIR calculations. *This enhancement 

is limited to acres where the conversion event took place not more than 2 years prior. Enhancement not applicable on hayland.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E328D - Leave standing grain crops unharvested to benefit wildlife

Scenario: #1 - Leave standing grain crops unharvested to benefit wildlife

Scenario Description:

Implement a crop rotation which allows a portion of grain crops to be left in fields un-harvested to provide food and cover for wildlife during winter months.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $189.02

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.17 $59.92

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.17 $45.38

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.17 $33.32

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E328E - Soil health crop rotation 

Scenario: #1 - Soil health crop rotation

Scenario Description:

Implement a crop rotation which addresses all four principle components of soil health: increases diversity of the cropping system; maintains residue throughout the year; 

keeps a living root; and minimizes soil chemical, physical and biological disturbance. The rotation will include at least 4 different crop and/or cover crop types (crop types 

include cool season grass, warm season grass, cool season broadleaf, warm season broadleaf) grown in a sequence that will produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter 

(OM) sub factor value over the life of the rotation, as determined by the Soil Conditioning Index (SCI). The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies 

must be used to document the rotation and SCI calculations.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $539.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E328F - Modifications to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter

Scenario: #1 - Modifications to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter

Scenario Description:

Use of soil health assessment to evaluate impact of current conservation crop rotation in addressing soil organic matter depletion (primary assessment made in Year 1). 

Modifications to the crop rotation and/or crop management will be made as a result of the assessment results (adding a new crop and/or cover crop to the rotation; 

making changes to planting and/or tillage system, harvest timing of crops, or termination timing of cover crops). During Year 3 a follow up assessment will be completed to 

allow time for the modifications to show increased soil organic matter. Modified system must produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) sub factor value over 

the life of the rotation, as determined by the Soil Conditioning Index (SCI). The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document 

the rotation and SCI calculations.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $233.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 1 $126.15
Practice: E328G - Crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover for soil organic matter improvement

Scenario: #1 - Crop rotation on recently converted CRP grass/legume cover for soil organic matter improvement

Scenario Description:

Crop rotation on acres converted, no more than 2 years prior, from CRP grass/legume cover to annual crops. Diverse rotation with living roots and residue cover 

throughout year and minimal disturbance. Enhancement not applicable on hayland. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $539.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E328H - Conservation crop rotation to reduce the concentration of salts

Scenario: #1 - Conservation crop rotation to reduce the concentration of salts

Scenario Description:

Implement a crop rotation to reduce the concentration of salts and other chemicals from saline seeps. The rotation should include at least 3 crops and/or cover crops 

grown in a sequence in the recharge areas of saline seeps that have rooting depths and water requirements adequate to fully utilize all available soil water. Do not use 

summer fallow. Use an approved water balance procedure to determine crop selection and sequence. Select crops with a tolerance to salinity levels that match the salinity 

of the discharge area. (See state lists )

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E328I - Forage harvest to reduce water quality impacts by utilization of excess soil nutrients

Scenario: #1 - Forage harvest to reduce water quality impacts by utilization of excess soil nutrients

Scenario Description:

Establish a forage crop (single species or mix) following a primary annual crop to take up excess soil nutrients. Select forage known to effectively utilize and scavenge 

nutrients. Forage shall be harvested for forage, but not be grazed or burned.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acres of Cropland with New Crop R

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $504.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 5 $72.70
Practice: E328J - Improved crop rotation to provide benefits to pollinators

Scenario: #1 - Improved crop rotation to provide benefits to pollinators

Scenario Description:

Improve the existing crop rotation by adding pollinator friendly crops into the rotation. The crop rotation shall include a minimum of three different crops in a minimum 

five year crop rotation. Each year, the pollinator friendly crop will be planted on a minimum of 5% of cropland acres contained within the agricultural operation. Use of 

insecticides is limited for the pollinator friendly crop.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acres planted to pollinator rotation

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $86.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E328K - Multiple crop types to benefit wildlife

Scenario: #9 - Multiple crop types to benefit wildlife

Scenario Description:

Alternating crops in a systematic arrangement of strips across a field to provide diverse rotations of crops that provide wildlife food. At least two crops will be planted in 

adjacent strips a minimum of 0.5 acres in size.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $107.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84
Practice: E328L - Leaving tall crop residue for wildlife

Scenario: #9 - Leaving tall crop residue for wildlife

Scenario Description:

Fields may be harvested but must leave crop residue standing a minimum of 14 inches. Residue will be left through winter and into spring, providing valuable winter cover 

and forage for wildlife spanning late summer and through the following winter.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation.

Feature Measure: acres with small grain stubble/resid

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E328M - Diversify crop rotation with canola or sunflower to provide benefits to pollinators

Scenario: #25 - Diversify crop rotation with canola or sunflower to provide benefits to pollinators

Scenario Description:

Diversify the existing crop rotation by adding canola or sunflower into the rotation. Canola or sunflower must be planted on a minimum of 5% of cropland acres. Pesticide 

use is limited to pre-bloom or bloom and in accordance with IPM and industry best management practices.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level for the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328- Conservation Crop Rotation.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328-Conservation Crop 

Rotation

Feature Measure: Acres planned

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E328O - Perennial Grain Conservation Crop Rotation

Scenario: #9 - Perennial Grain Rotation

Scenario Description:

This practice payment is provided to the producer for the time needed to plan and implement the logistics of changing the rotation to effectively implement a 

conservation crop rotation on a cropland farm by adding a perennial grain as the third crop to their cropping system. The crop is intended to be a harvested and must be 

grown for at least 2 years after planting. No foregone income. Cost represents typical situations for conventional and organic producers. In this region this practice may 

be part of a conservation management system on both organic and non-organic operations that: (1) Reduces erosion; (2) Improves soil fertility and tilth; (3) Interrupts pest 

cycles; and (4) Builds soil organic matter. In applicable areas, reduces depletion of soil moisture or otherwise reduces the need for irrigation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level for the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328- Conservation Crop Rotation.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328-Conservation Crop 

Rotation.

Feature Measure: Area Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,347.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $158.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 3 $349.17

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 40 $870.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 20 $2,156.80
Practice: E328P - Low Nitrogen Requirement Annual Crop Rotation

Scenario: #9 - Low Nitrogen Requirement Annual Crop Rotation

Scenario Description:

Design an annual crop rotation which less than the average annual nitrogen fertilizer requirement compared to the current (benchmark) crop rotation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop Rotation.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 328 - Conservation Crop 

Rotation.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,763.99

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 5 $252.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 20 $2,156.80
Practice: E329A - No till to reduce soil erosion

Scenario: #1 - No till to reduce soil erosion

Scenario Description:

Establish no till system to reduce sheet and rill erosion soil loss. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for water and wind erosion for the crop 

rotation and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 10 for each crop in the planned rotation. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction 

technologies must be used to calculate soil loss and STIR.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and 

Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E329B - No till to reduce tillage induced particulate matter

Scenario: #1 - No till to reduce tillage induced particulate matter

Scenario Description:

Establish no till system to reduce tillage induced particulate matter. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for the crop rotation and a Soil 

Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 10 for each crop in the planned rotation. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used 

to document soil loss and STIR calculations.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and 

Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E329C - No till to increase plant-available moisture

Scenario: #1 - No till to increase plant-available moisture

Scenario Description:

Establish a no till system to increase plant-available moisture. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 20. The 

current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document STIR calculations. Maintain a minimum 60 percent surface residue cover 

throughout the year to reduce evaporation from the soil surface.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and 

Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E329D - No till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario: #1 - No till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario Description:

Establish a no till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater 

than 20. The crop rotation must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to 

document STIR and SCI calculations. Residue shall not be burned, grazed, or harvested.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and 

Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E329E - No till to reduce energy

Scenario: #1 - No till to reduce energy

Scenario Description:

Establish a no till system which reduces total energy consumption associated with field operations by at least 25% compared to current tillage system (benchmark). Each 

crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 20. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be 

used to document STIR calculations and energy consumption. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 329 - Residue and 

Tillage Management - No-Till/ Strip Till/ Direct Seed

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E329F - No-till into green cover crop to improve soil organic matter quantity and quality

Scenario: #9 - Residue and Tillage Management, No-Till - Planting Green

Scenario Description:

This scenario applies to cropland where residue and tillage management prepares the field for ???planting green??? techniques where cash crops are planted into living 

cover crop residues. This practice is based on economic and social data obtained from the North Jersey RC&D On-Farm Trials Soil Health Demo CIG Project results. This 

scenario involves the site preparation and management of live cover crop residues during no-till planting events. The practice will be used to drastically reduce soil 

erosion, reduce CO2 losses from the field, maximize the four principles of soil health and related resource concerns, mitigate pesticide usage and amplify the benefits of 

supporting practices. The typical scenario size is 100 acres.

Before Situation:

Row crops or small grains are grown and harvested. Cover crop and/or crop residues that are present are too fragile or not in a quantity to adequately address soil, water, 

and air resource concerns. Residues are dead at the time of planting, leaving soils with lowered microbial activity. If cover crops are planted in the fall, they are terminated 

through tillage or chemical means early in the spring, providing little environmental benefit and the ground is left tilled or fallow between cover crop termination and cash 

crop planting, allowing for soil erosion, the release of greenhouse gases, and nutrient losses to groundwater and surface waters. The soils are not functioning properly and 

are heavily supplemented with chemical inputs. Current tillage operations are not able to address resource concerns. No-till if utilized is limited due to residue quantity or 

quality.

After Situation:

Live residues are maintained for extended periods of time in the spring, providing soil coverage that is adequate to control erosion and runoff and sedimentation. Soils are 

no-tilled and cover crop residues accumulate carbon providing carbon sequestration benefits as well as increasing soil microbial activity which further increase the 

function of the soil. Chemical inputs are generally reduced due to increased soil function and protection from live residues. Producers gain knowledge through workshops 

and working with crop consultants to maintain the success and long-term adoption of the practice. All cover crop residues are to be maintained on the surface until 

planting. The cover crop must be terminated before crop emergence. See complete ???NRCS Cover Crop Termination Guidelines??? for more information.

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,462.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $64.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 100 $679.00

Mechanical weed control, 957

Vegetation termination

Mechanical operations, Includes: Roller/crimper, mower, shredder, 

etc. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $27.32 100 $2,732.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 100 $1,266.00

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 5 $630.75
Practice: E334A - Controlled traffic farming to reduce compaction

Scenario: #1 - Controlled traffic farming to reduce compaction

Scenario Description:

Establish a controlled traffic system where no more than 25% of the surface is tracked with heavy axel loads to minimize soil compaction. For row crops (e.g. corn in 30-

inch rows) no tire should run on a row except for flotation tires on combines and/or fertilizer and lime spreading trucks. If wide flotation tires are used, they must be big 

enough that the inflation pressure will be below 18 psi to minimize compaction on trafficked rows.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 334 - Controlled Traffic Farming

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 334 - Controlled Traffic 

Farming

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $778.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E338A - Strategically planned, patch burning for grazing distribution and wildlife habitat

Scenario: #1 - Strategically planned, patch burning for grazing distribution and wildlife habitat

Scenario Description:

Patch burn grazing is the application of prescribed fires on portions of an identified grazing unit at different times of the year. Patch burn grazing allows grazing animals to 

select where they want to graze creating a mosaic of vegetation structures and diversity that will maintain or enhance the wildlife habitat desired for the identified wildlife 

species and maintain livestock production.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 338 - Prescribed Burning

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 338 - Prescribed Burning

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $765.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7.66

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 140 HP 927 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 125 to 160. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $101.21 4 $404.84

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 4 $146.40

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E338B - Short-interval burns to promote a healthy herbaceous plant community

Scenario: #1 - Short-interval burns to promote a healthy herbaceous plant community

Scenario Description:

The controlled use of fire is applied in a forest to restore fire-adapted plants while improving wildlife habitat, wildlife food supply, and reducing the risk of damage from 

intense, severe wildfires. The ideal interval between prescribed burns is not often achieved. To improve the effectiveness of prescribed burning, the frequency of 

prescribed burning is increased appropriately, for a specified time period, to help restore ecological conditions in forests and woodlands. Short return interval prescribed 

burning is used to regenerate desirable tree species, improve the condition of fire-adapted plants and native herbaceous vegetation, improve wildlife food supply, create 

wildlife habitat (snags and den/cavity trees), limit encroachment of competing vegetation including non-native species, and reduce the future risk of damage from intense, 

severe wildfires.

Before Situation:

The site has a mixture of woody sprouts and some herbaceous vegetation in the forest understory.

After Situation:

The site has a mixture of warm season perennial vegetation and cool-season annual forages. Grazing is occurring to manage the herbaceous vegetation and keep 

undesirable woody vegetation from occupying the forest understory.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,633.56

Scenario Cost/Unit: $115.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 8 $632.32

Truck, water 1448 Water tanker truck. Equipment only. Labor not included. Hours $191.11 8 $1,528.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 8 $292.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E338C - Sequential patch burning

Scenario: #1 - Sequential patch burning

Scenario Description:

Conduct prescribed under burning beneath a forest canopy (ground fire), burning a portion of the area each year to create a mosaic of vegetation in several stages of 

development, to provide a more diverse understory and contribute to wildlife habitat. The health of conifer and oak-conifer forests, particularly longleaf pine with a 

characteristic herbaceous understory, is dependent on fire or another means of controlling encroaching woody vegetation. A healthy longleaf or shortleaf pine, or pineoak forest, can support a wide array of wildlife including pollinators and several endangered or threatened species.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 338 - Prescribed Burning

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 338 - Prescribed Burning

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,658.85

Scenario Cost/Unit: $265.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 2 $36.60

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 2 $25.94

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52

Materials

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 5 $18.55

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: E340A - Cover crop to reduce soil erosion

Scenario: #1 - Cover crop to reduce soil erosion

Scenario Description:

Cover crop added to current crop rotation to reduce soil erosion from water and wind to below soil tolerance (T) level. Cover crops grown during critical erosion period(s). 

Species are selected that will have physical characteristics to provide adequate erosion protection.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $847.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 20 $815.80
Practice: E340B - Intensive cover cropping to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario: #1 - Intensive cover cropping to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario Description:

Implementation of cover crop mix to provide soil coverage during ALL non-crop production periods in an annual crop rotation. Cover crop shall not be harvested or 

burned. Planned crop rotation including cover crops and associated management activities must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher. The current NRCS 

wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document SCI calculations.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,442.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340C - Use of multi-species cover crops to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter

Scenario: #1 - Use of multi-species cover crops to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter

Scenario Description:

Implement a multi-species cover crop to add diversity and increase biomass production to improve soil health and increase soil organic matter. Cover crop mix must 

include a minimum of 4 different species. The cover crop mix will increase diversity of the crop rotation by including crop types currently missing, e.g. Cool Season Grass 

(CSG), Cool Season Broadleaves (CSB), Warm Season Grasses (WSG), Warm Season Broadleaves (WSB).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,291.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340D - Intensive orchard/vineyard floor cover cropping to increase soil health

Scenario: #1 - Intensive orchard/vineyard floor cover cropping to increase soil health

Scenario Description:

Implement orchard or vineyard floor cover crops. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned. Must achieve a soil conditioning index of zero or higher and 

produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter subfactor over the life of the rotation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,291.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340E - Use of soil health assessment to assist with development of cover crop mix to improve soil health

Scenario: #1 - Use of soil health assessment to assist with development of cover crop mix to improve soil health

Scenario Description:

Soil health assessment (year 1) to evaluate current crop rotation in addressing soil organic matter depletion. Results are utilized to select a multi-species cover crop mix to 

add to the current crop rotation. Follow up assessment completed (year 3).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $327.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.27

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 1 $61.36

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 1 $126.15
Practice: E340F - Cover crop to minimize soil compaction 

Scenario: #1 - Cover crop to minimize soil compaction

Scenario Description:

Establish a cover crop mix that includes plants with both fibrous root and deep rooted systems. Fibrous to treat and prevent both near surface (0-4???) and deep (>4???) 

soil compaction and deep rooted to break up deep compacted soils. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,259.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340G - Cover crop to reduce water quality degradation by utilizing excess soil nutrients

Scenario: #1 - Cover crop to reduce water quality degradation by utilizing excess soil nutrients

Scenario Description:

Establish a cover crop mix to take up excess soil nutrients. Select cover crop species for their ability to effectively utilize nutrients. Terminate the cover crop as late as 

practical to maximize plant biomass production and nutrient uptake. Cover crop shall not be harvested, grazed, or burned.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,259.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.59

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 1 $31.92

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340H - Cover crop to suppress excessive weed pressures and break pest cycles

Scenario: #1 - Cover crop to suppress excessive weed pressures and break pest cycles

Scenario Description:

Establish a cover crop mix to suppress excessive weed pressures and break pest cycles. Select cover crop species for their life cycles, growth habits, and other biological, 

chemical and/or physical characteristics. Select cover crop species that do not harbor pests or diseases of subsequent crops in the rotation. Cover crop shall not be 

harvested, grazed, or burned.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 340 - Cover Crop

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,291.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340I - Using cover crops for biological strip till

Scenario: #9 - Using cover crops for biological strip till

Scenario Description:

Establish alternating strips of cover crops in which one strip acts as a biological strip-tiller and the adjacent strip promotes soil health with high residue cover crops. This 

will facilitate planting of the subsequent cash crop into the biologically strip-tilled row without the need for mechanical disturbance.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 340 - Cover Crop.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 340 - Cover Crop.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,386.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 5 $159.60

Materials

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 20 $1,227.20
Practice: E340J - Cover crop to improve moisture use efficiency and reduce salts

Scenario: #9 - Cover crop to improve soil moisture use efficiency and reduce salt levels

Scenario Description:

Cover crop used in a crop rotation to reduce damaging levels of salt from parent materials and or ground water. A salt tolerant cover crop species will be planted in the 

salt affected zone and a buffer zone extending into the commodity crop base acres.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of CPS 340 Cover Crop.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in CPS 340 Cover Crop.

Feature Measure: acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,410.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $44.11

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 15 $326.40

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 24 $348.96

Testing, soil sampling and EC 2055

analysis, bore hole

Collecting and testing 5 soil samples per 60 inch bore hole. Inclueds EC 

measurements. Includes equipment and labor.

Hours $304.20 5 $1,521.00

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 15 $920.40
Practice: E345A - Reduced tillage to reduce soil erosion

Scenario: #1 - Reduced tillage to reduce soil erosion

Scenario Description:

Establish a reduced tillage system to reduce soil loss. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for water and wind erosion for the crop rotation 

and a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 40 for each crop in the planned rotation. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies 

must be used to calculate soil loss and STIR.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and 

Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E345B - Reduced tillage to reduce tillage induced particulate matter

Scenario: #1 - Reduced tillage to reduce tillage induced particulate matter

Scenario Description:

Establish a reduced tillage system to reduce tillage induced particulate matter. Field(s) must have a soil loss at or below the soil tolerance (T) level for the crop rotation and 

a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 40 for each crop in the planned rotation. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be 

used to document soil loss and STIR calculations. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and 

Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E345C - Reduced tillage to increase plant-available moisture

Scenario: #1 - Reduced tillage to increase plant-available moisture

Scenario Description:

Establish a reduced till system to increase plant-available moisture. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 80. The 

current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document STIR calculations. Maintain a minimum 60 percent surface residue cover 

throughout the year to reduce evaporation from the soil surface.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and 

Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E345D - Reduced tillage to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario: #1 - Reduced tillage to increase soil health and soil organic matter content

Scenario Description:

Establish a reduced till system to increase soil health and soil organic matter content. Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no 

greater than 80. The crop rotation must achieve a soil conditioning index (SCI) of zero or higher and produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter (OM) subfactor over 

the life of the crop rotation. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies must be used to document STIR and SCI calculations. Residue shall not be 

burned, grazed, or harvested.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and 

Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $431.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.31

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E345E - Reduced tillage to reduce energy use

Scenario: #1 - Reduced tillage to reduce energy use

Scenario Description:

Establish a reduced tillage system which reduces total energy consumption associated with field operations by at least 25% compared to conventional tillage systems 

(benchmark). Each crop in the crop rotation shall have a Soil Tillage Intensity Rating (STIR) of no greater than 80. The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction 

technologies must be used to document STIR calculations and energy consumption.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and Tillage Management, Reduced Till

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 345 - Residue and 

Tillage Management, Reduced Till

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E372A - Switch to Renewable Power Source

Scenario: #9 - Repower with Renewable Energy Source

Scenario Description:

Existing internal combustion system (5-30 HP) used for water pumping and or movement. The repower provides the pump and drive unit replacement and the conversion 

to renewable energy power source, typically solar. The repowered system will function at the same capacity as the original system. Addresses Air Quality Emissions of 

Particulate Matter, Ozone Precursors, and Nitrous oxides.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 372 Combustion System Improvement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard 372 Combustion System 

Improvement.

Feature Measure: per unit switched to renewable ene

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $62,814.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $62,814.69

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 16 $1,725.44

Materials

Pump, > 5 HP to 30 HP, pump and 1011

motor, fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump between 5 and 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $3,727.95 1 $3,727.95

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 22 $56,399.64
Practice: E372B - Renewable Energy Source for Large Internal Combustion Engines

Scenario: #9 - Renewable Energy Power Source for Large IC Engines

Scenario Description:

Replace an existing pump motor with a drive unit that is powered by a renewable source such as wind, solar, geothermal, etc. that can adequately maintain the existing 

operating conditions, flow rates and pressures. The replacement, repower, or retrofit combustion system and related components or devices must serve the same 

function and perform similar type of work as the original equipment. Applies to existing, in-use agricultural combustion systems, including stationary, portable, and selfpropelled mobile units. Addresses Resource Concerns for Air Quality- Particulate Matter Emissions, Ozone Precursors and Airborne Reactive Nitrogen emissions. 

Inefficient energy may be addressed when the IC engine is repowered with a more efficient drive unit.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of Conservation Practice Standard 372 Combustion System Improvement.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level of Conservation Practice Standard 372 Combustion System Improvement.

Feature Measure: each IC system repowered

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $48,730.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $48,730.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Pump, > 30 HP, pump and motor, 1013

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is a base cost for the pump and is not 

dependent on horsepower. The total cost will include this fixed cost 

plus a variable cost portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Each $6,467.67 1 $6,467.67

Pump, >30 HP, Pump and motor, 1014

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump greater than 30 HP, including the pump 

and motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost will include this variable cost plus a fixed cost 

portion. Includes material and shipping only.

Horsepower $258.92 75 $19,419.00

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 8 $20,508.96
Practice: E373A - Dust suppressant re-application for stabilization

Scenario: #25 - Dust Suppressant Re-application, Once per Year

Scenario Description:

Limit dust emissions by maintaining the surfaces of unpaved roads and areas in a stabilized condition. The periodic re-application of dust suppressants to unpaved surface 

areas will limit dust generation from vehicle and machinery activities or wind action.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 373 - Dust Control on Unpaved Roads and Surfaces.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 373 - Dust Control on 

Unpaved Roads and Surfaces.

Feature Measure: Square Feet

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 15,840.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,458.01

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 0.36 $2.44

Motor Grader, 200 HP 1782 Motor Grader or Maintainer, 200 hp. Typical of equipment with HP in 

range of 170-225. Equipment cost, does not include labor.

Hours $167.59 3 $502.77

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 3 $109.80

Materials

Chemical, dust control, road oil, 1339

petroleum-based

Petroleum-based road oil, such as SC-250 or SC-800. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Gallons $4.27 900 $3,843.00
Practice: E376A - Modify field operations to reduce particulate matter

Scenario: #1 - Modify field operations to reduce particulate matter

Scenario Description:

Modify tillage and/or harvest operations to reduce particulates by at least 20 percent below the required levels.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 376 - Field Operations Emissions Reduction

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 376 - Field Operations 

Emissions Reduction

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $323.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E381A - Silvopasture to improve wildlife habitat

Scenario: #1 - Silvopasture to improve wildlife habitat

Scenario Description:

Establishing a combination of trees or shrubs and compatible forages on the same acreage, providing forage, shade, and/or shelter for livestock that include a purpose of 

enhancing wildlife cover and shelter. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 381 - Silvopasture

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 381 - Silvopasture

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $10,886.28

Scenario Cost/Unit: $108.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 20 $135.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 200 $6,340.00

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 20 $253.20

Shrub, Seedling, Large 1508 Bare root shrub seedling, 36 to 60 inches tall; includes containerized 

seedlings larger than 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $4.01 200 $802.00

Tree, Conifer, Seedling, Large 1515 Containerized conifer seedlings, 15 or 20 cubic inches; or bare root 

conifer seedlings 2+1 (three-year old seedlings that grew two years in 

the original seedbed and another year in a transplant bed) or bare root 

seedlings 3+0 and older (three-year or older seedlings grown in their 

original seedbed, or transplanted seedlings). Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.73 100 $173.00

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 20 $2,699.40
Practice: E382A - Incorporating "wildlife friendly" fencing for connectivity of wildlife food resources

Scenario: #1 - Incorporating "wildlife friendly" fencing for connectivity of wildlife food resources

Scenario Description:

Retrofitting or constructing fences that provide a means to control movement of animals, people, and vehicles, but minimizes wildlife movement impacts. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 382 - Fence

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 382 - Fence

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $238.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1 $18.30

Materials

Vinyl Undersill Strips 241 Marking material using the undersill strips of vinyl siding. Priced per 

foot of fence per each wire. Materials only.

Feet $0.11 2000 $220.00
Practice: E382B - Installing electrical fence offsets and wire for cross-fencing to improve grazing management

Scenario: #9 - Installing electrical fence offsets and wire for cross-fencing to improve grazing management

Scenario Description:

Retrofitting conventional fences such as barb wire, with new electrical offsets and electrical wire to facilitate cross-fencing for improved grazing management.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 382 - Fence

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 382 - Fence

Feature Measure: Feet

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 2,640.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,320.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 16 $510.72

Materials

Wire, High Tensile, 12.5 Gauge, 2

4,000' roll

High Tensile 12.5 gauge, 4,000' roll. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $150.67 1 $150.67

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 3 $50.82

Electric, Insulated cable 23 Electric, Insulated cable for electric fence. Typically in spools of 100 to 

200 feet. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $40.02 2 $80.04

Electric, Power Surge Protector 24 Electric, Power Surge Protector for electric fence. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $14.73 1 $14.73

Electric, Cutoff Switch 25 Electric, Cutoff Switch for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $10.63 1 $10.63

Electric, Tester 26 Electric, Tester for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $43.90 1 $43.90

Electric, Energizer, 6 joule 29 Electric, Energizer, 6 joule for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $406.62 1 $406.62

Fence, Wire Assembly, High 32

Tensile, Electric, 1 Strand

Brace pins, springs, strainers, battens, clips, crimp sleeves, staples, 

insulators, wrap around sleeves. Includes materials and shipping only.

Feet $0.02 2640 $52.80
Practice: E383A - Grazing-maintained fuel break to reduce the risk of fire

Scenario: #1 - Grazing-maintained fuel break to reduce the risk of fire

Scenario Description:

The area has existing fuel break(s) of 30 to 60 feet in width, supporting a mixture of woody sprouts and some herbaceous vegetation. Warm-season perennial vegetation 

will be established on the fuel breaks, and will be over-seeded with cool-season annual forages in the fall. Grazing will be managed on the fuel breaks to remove or modify 

the fine fuel vegetation, thus reducing the risk of fire spread from ground fires. Ground cover will be maintained to control soil erosion and facilitate prescribed burning. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 383 - Fuel Break

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 383 - Fuel Break

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,925.54

Scenario Cost/Unit: $292.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, ground application, dry 950

bulk

Dry bulk fertilizer application performed by ground equipment. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $7.68 10 $76.80

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 10 $217.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Materials

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 1000 $660.00

Annual Grasses, Legumes or Forbs 2732 A mix of annual grasses, legumes and/or forbs, mostly introduced but 

may be native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes 

material and shipping.

Acres $61.36 10 $613.60

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 10 $477.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E384A - Biochar production from woody residue

Scenario: #10 - Biochar production from woody residue

Scenario Description:

The adoption of this enhancement will go above the minimum level of woody residue treatment by creating a product that improves air quality by storing carbon, 

decreases fuel loads and fire hazard, and can improves soil quality. It will utilize woody debris remaining after a silvicultural practice or natural disturbance to create 

biochar. Biochar stores carbon and is a useful soil amendment that improves SOM and water-holding capacity.

Before Situation:

Area has woody residue that is unmerchantable and available for creation of quality biochar. Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice 

Standard (CPS) 384 - Woody Residue Treatment

After Situation:

Woody debri has been coverted to biochar.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.50

Scenario Total Cost: $12,703.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5,081.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, .5 CY 930 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.3 to 

0.8 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $102.14 40 $4,085.60

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 40 $254.40

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 15 $384.00

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 80 $1,037.60

Biochar Kiln, open fire 2681 Open fire kiln or metal container used to produce biochar/charcoal 

production. Daily rental rate. Includes all material and equipment

Hours $9.85 200 $1,970.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E386A - Enhanced field borders to reduce soil erosion along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario: #1 - Enhanced field borders to reduce soil erosion along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario Description:

Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 30 feet and establish a single species or mixture of species that provide a dense ground cover along the edge(s) of the 

field.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,179.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,179.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2748

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure 

live seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $68.23 1 $68.23

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E386B - Enhanced field borders to increase carbon storage along the edge(s) of the field

Scenario: #1 - Enhanced field borders to increase carbon storage along the edge(s) of the field

Scenario Description:

Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 30 feet and establish a single species or mixture of species that provide a dense ground cover and dense rooting 

system along the edge(s) of the field.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,264.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,264.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2756

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Medium Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to high density (41-60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $153.79 1 $153.79

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E386C - Enhanced field borders to decrease particulate emissions along the edge(s) of the field

Scenario: #1 - Enhanced field borders to decrease particulate emissions along the edge(s) of the field

Scenario Description:

Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that decrease the particulate emissions along the edge(s) of the field.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,199.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,199.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2749

Legumes and/or Forbs, High 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at high density (greater than 60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $88.70 1 $88.70

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E386D - Enhanced field borders to increase food for pollinators along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario: #1 - Enhanced field borders to increase food for pollinators along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario Description:

Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that provide food for pollinators along the edge(s) of the field.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,264.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,264.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2756

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Medium Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to high density (41-60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $153.79 1 $153.79

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E386E - Enhanced field borders to increase wildlife food and habitat along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario: #1 - Enhanced field borders to increase wildlife food and habitat along the edge(s) of a field

Scenario Description:

Enhance existing field borders to a width of at least 40 feet and establish a mixture of species that provide wildlife food and habitat along the edge(s) of the field. The 

extended field border will also provide enhanced wildlife habitat continuity. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 386 - Field Border

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,264.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,264.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2756

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Medium Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to high density (41-60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $153.79 1 $153.79

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E390A - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width for sediment and nutrient reduction

Scenario: #1 - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width for sediment and nutrient reduction

Scenario Description:

Where an existing herbaceous riparian buffer is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the width of the buffer in order to allow a greater 

percentage of sediment and nutrient removal from surface and subsurface flows.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 390 - Riparian 

Herbaceous Cover

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,099.89

Scenario Cost/Unit: $549.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 2 $85.78

Native Perennial Grasses, 2751

Medium Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $192.81 2 $385.62
Practice: E390B - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width to enhance wildlife habitat

Scenario: #1 - Increase riparian herbaceous cover width to enhance wildlife habitat

Scenario Description:

Where an existing herbaceous riparian buffer is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the diversity of native species, control invasive 

species, install fencing and relocate equipment operations, trails, and livestock, and increase the width of the buffer.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 390 - Riparian Herbaceous Cover

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 390 - Riparian 

Herbaceous Cover

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 4.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,497.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $374.25

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 4 $27.16

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 2 $43.52

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 1 $352.48

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 1 $266.95

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 4 $171.56

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 2 $545.18
Practice: E391A - Increase riparian forest buffer width for sediment and nutrient reduction

Scenario: #1 - Increase riparian forest buffer width for sediment and nutrient reduction

Scenario Description:

Where an existing forested riparian area is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the width of the buffer in order to allow a greater 

percentage of sediment and nutrient removal from surface and subsurface flows. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest 

Buffer

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,952.34

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,476.17

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2 $63.78

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 872 $1,761.44
Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 100 $529.00

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 100 $216.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E391B - Increase stream shading for stream temperature reduction

Scenario: #1 - Increase stream shading for stream temperature reduction

Scenario Description:

Riparian area tree canopy cover density is increased and the extent of the forested riparian area is increased to provide greater stream shading.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest 

Buffer

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,000.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,500.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2 $63.78

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 872 $1,761.44

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 100 $529.00
Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 100 $216.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E391C - Increase riparian forest buffer width to enhance wildlife habitat

Scenario: #1 - Increase riparian forest buffer width to enhance wildlife habitat

Scenario Description:

Where an existing riparian forest buffer is located along a river, stream, pond, lake, or other waterbody, increase the diversity of native species, control invasive species, 

install fencing and relocate equipment operations, trails, and livestock to increase the functional width of the buffer.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest Buffer

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 391 - Riparian Forest 

Buffer

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,000.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,500.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2 $63.78

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 2 $13.58

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 4 $146.72

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 16 $200.16

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.82 $289.03

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.72 $192.20

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.46 $90.15

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 18 $429.84

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 4 $124.56

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 872 $1,761.44
Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 100 $529.00

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 100 $216.00

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E393A - Extend existing filter strip to reduce water quality impacts

Scenario: #1 - Extend existing filter strip to reduce water quality impacts

Scenario Description:

Extend existing filter strips for water quality protection. Extend the existing buffer for a total of 60 feet or more to enhance water quality functions. The extended buffers 

must be composed of at least 5 species of non-noxious, wildlife friendly grasses and/or perennial forbs best suited to site conditions. Include species that provide 

pollinator food and habitat where possible.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 393 - Filter Strip

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 393 - Filter Strip

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,480.41

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,480.41

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 1 $14.54

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Native and Introduced Perennial 2756

Grasses, Legumes and/or Forbs, 

Medium Density

A mix of native and introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or 

forbs, grasses typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small 

percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to high density (41-60 pure live 

seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $153.79 1 $153.79

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E395A - Stream habitat improvement through placement of woody biomass

Scenario: #1 - Stream habitat improvement through placement of woody biomass

Scenario Description:

Flexible placement of wood (unanchored/unpinned) in small, 1st and 2nd order streams to improve stream habitat conditions for aquatic species and natural stream 

processes.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 395 - Stream Habitat Improvement and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 395 - Stream Habitat 

Improvement and Management

Feature Measure: Bankfull width X Length

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $19,924.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19,924.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Hydraulic Excavator, 2 CY 932 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 1.5 to 

2.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $146.38 16 $2,342.08

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 8 $845.44

Labor

Equipment Operators, Heavy 233 Includes: Cranes, Hydraulic Excavators >=50 HP, Dozers, Paving 

Machines, Rock Trenchers, Trenchers >=12 in., Dump Trucks, Ag 

Equipment >=150 HP, Scrapers, Water Wagons.

Hours $36.60 24 $878.40

Materials

Aggregate, Sand, Graded, Washed 45 Sand, typical ASTM C33 gradation. Includes materials, and local 

delivery within 20 miles of quarry or pit. Placement costs are not 

included.

Cubic Yards $20.44 20 $408.80

Aggregate, Gravel, Graded 46 Gravel. includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Cubic Yards $21.51 30 $645.30

Compost 265 A mixture of decaying organic matter, as from leaves and manure, used 

to improve soil structure and provide nutrients.

Ton $52.20 1 $52.20

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1309

Large

Woody pole cuttings or posts 2 to 6 inches in diameter and 6 ft. long. 

Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $11.13 300 $3,339.00

Boulder 1761 Rock boulders (approximately 5 ft dia. 6.67 Tons). Includes materials 

and delivery (up to 100 miles) only. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $94.75 40 $3,790.00

Steel, rebar 1832 Steel rebar, grade 60. Materials only. Pound $0.76 50 $38.00

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 15 $271.20

Log, un-anchored 2035 Price of log picked up at the Mill. Includes material only. Ton $176.38 30 $5,291.40

Root Wad 2045 Tree stump buried into the streambank with the roots left exposed. 

Includes material only.

Ton $7.93 20 $158.60

Mobilization

Mobilization, large equipment 1140 Equipment >150HP or typical weights greater than 30,000 pounds or 

loads requiring over width or over length permits.

Each $931.94 2 $1,863.88
Practice: E399A - Fishpond management for native aquatic and terrestrial species 

Scenario: #1 - Fishpond management for native aquatic and terrestrial species

Scenario Description:

Pond rehabilitation, buffer, and watershed management actions are taken to improve habitat for native species of fish, amphibians, and shorebirds.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 399 - Fishpond Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 399 - Fishpond 

Management

Feature Measure: Pond area + buffer area

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,941.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,470.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Seeding Operation, No Till/Grass 960

Drill

No Till drill or grass drill for seeding. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $21.76 1 $21.76

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 3 $95.76

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 1 $42.89

Herbicide, Diquat dibromide 1820 Aquatic herbicide and plant growth regulator. Refer to WIN-PST for 

product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Gallons $108.55 1 $108.55

Native Aquatic Plants, Emergent 2336

or Submerged

Native aquatic emergent or submerged. All required materials for 

establishing vegetation. Includes material and shipping.

Each $1.22 1000 $1,220.00

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 1 $272.59

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E412A - Enhance a grassed waterway

Scenario: #9 - Waterway, reshape/extend/widen

Scenario Description:

Typical practice is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.1' depth. A grass waterway that is a shaped or graded channel and is established with suitable vegetation to 

carry surface water at a non-erosive velocity to a stable outlet. This practice addresses Concentrated Flow Erosion (Classic Gully & Ephemeral Erosion) and Excessive 

Sediment in surface waters. Waterway area measured from top of bank to top of bank. Seeding will be completed under the Critical Area Planting (342) Practice Standard 

with seeding area up to 20% greater than waterway area to account for buffer area along the waterway. Costs include excavation and associated work to construct the 

overall shape and grade of the waterway. This scenario would apply to Grassed Waterways without erosion control blanket or rock checks.

Before Situation:

The field has a grassed waterway, but a gully cutting upstream, downstream, or adjacent to the existing grassed waterway has formed as time goes on, so the new gully 

needs to be stopped or controlled. The new gully has formed in field as a result of a change in runoff amounts from the original design from subsurface drainage outlets, 

change in cropping techniques, change in land use, etc.

After Situation:

An installed grassed waterway has been installed that is possibly wider or longer than the original grassed waterway that wasn't functioning properly anymore. The new 

installed grassed waterway is 1500 ' long, 12' bottom, 8:1 side slopes, 1.1' depth. The practice is installed using a dozer and/or scraper, with final grading with motor 

grader. Use Critical Area Planting (342) for establishment of waterway vegetation. If erosion control blankets or mulching for seedbed establishment/protection are 

needed, use conservation practice Mulching (484). Drainage tile, if needed, will be installed accoring to Subsurface Drain (606).

Feature Measure: Acres of Waterway reshaped, exten

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,868.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,868.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Stripping and stockpiling, topsoil 1199 Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil adjacent to stripping area. Includes 

equipment and labor.

Cubic Yards $0.84 411 $345.24

Excavation, common earth, large 1223

equipment, 150 ft

Bulk excavation of common earth including sand and gravel with dozer 

>100 HP with average push distance of 150 feet. Includes equipment 

and labor.

Cubic Yards $3.54 954 $3,377.16

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E420A - Establish pollinator habitat

Scenario: #9 - Establish Pollinator Habitat

Scenario Description:

Seed or plug nectar and pollen producing plants in non-cropped areas such as field borders, vegetative barriers, contour buffer strips, shelterbelts, hedgerows, windbreaks, 

conservation cover, and riparian forest and herbaceous buffers.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 420 - Wildlife Habitat 

Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $517.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $517.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: E420B - Establish monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario: #9 - Establish Monarch Habitat

Scenario Description:

Seed or plug milkweed (Asclepias spp.) and high-value monarch butterfly nectar plants on marginal cropland, field borders, contour buffer strips and similar areas.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 420 - Wildlife Habitat Planting.

After Situation:

Adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 420 - Wildlife Habitat 

Planting.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $885.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $885.80

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 1 $31.89

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

Cultipacking 1100 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Acres $10.28 1 $10.28

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 1 $469.81
Practice: E447A - Advanced Tailwater Recovery

Scenario: #9 - Advanced Tailwater Recovery

Scenario Description:

This enhancement is for a recovery system that capture 100% of excess irrigation and drainage runoff water from the contiguous land where the activity is implemented. 

Runoff water is conveyed through properly designed recovery ditches to a storage structure. Each recovery ditch and storage structure have adequate capacity to store 

excess irrigation water and reasonable runoff water. The system is designed to incorporate the collected water back into the delivery system so that excess water is 

reused. The system is fully automated to operate the recovery pumps, valves, and collection system. Key elements in the system are sensors that can evaluate data and 

operate devices through the system in opening/closing or on /off based on scientifically determined parameters.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 447 - Irrigation System, Tailwater Recovery.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 447 - Irrigation System, 

Tailwater Recovery.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 200.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,620.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.10

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 24 $439.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 24 $573.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20
Practice: E449A - Complete pumping plant evaluation for water savings

Scenario: #1 - Complete pumping plant evaluation for water savings

Scenario Description:

The performance of pump tests and evaluations of all pumping plants to determine the potential to rehabilitate/replace/reconfigure pump performance to improve water 

delivery efficiency 10% or more. Develop and provide a written report with recordkeeping documents and list of adjustments and calculations of the reduction of water 

use based on before and after conditions.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation Water Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard, (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation 

Water Management.

Feature Measure: Each pump evaluated

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,890.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,890.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: E449B - Alternated Wetting and Drying (AWD) of rice fields

Scenario: #1 - Alternated Wetting and Drying (AWD) of rice fields

Scenario Description:

Rice fields are drained and allowed to ???dry down??? to a saturated soil condition prior to re-flooding the field. System is installed in year 1 with Scenario E449144Z8 and 

this scenario used in years 2-5. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation Water Management.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation 

Water Management.

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,257.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $31.44

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 40 $955.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40
Practice: E449C - Advanced Automated IWM - Year 2-5, soil moisture monitoring

Scenario: #1 - Advanced Automated IWM ??? Year 2-5, soil moisture monitoring

Scenario Description:

Advanced automated irrigation water management using soil moisture or water level monitoring (installed as per IWM plan) with data loggers. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation Water Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 125.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,486.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 40 $1,276.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 24 $1,209.60
Practice: E449D - Advanced Automated IWM - Year 1, Equipment and soil moisture or water level monitoring

Scenario: #1 - Advanced Automated IWM ??? Year 1, Equipment and soil moisture or water level monitoring

Scenario Description:

Installing and monitoring soil moisture or water leveling equipment for advanced automated irrigation water management

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 120.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,838.22

Scenario Cost/Unit: $56.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 30 $768.00

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 3 $1,940.19

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44
Practice: E449E - Convert from Cascade to Furrow Irrigated Rice Production - reduce irrigation water consumption

Scenario: #9 - Convert from Cascade to Furrow Irrigated Rice Production - reduce irrigation water consumption

Scenario Description:

Field currently flooded through a cascade levee system will be converted to furrow irrigation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 449 - Irrigation Water Management.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,709.12

Scenario Cost/Unit: $58.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tillage, Light 945 Includes light disking (tandem) or field cultivator. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $14.54 80 $1,163.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 32 $1,612.80

Materials

Flow Meter, with mechanical 1450

Index

10 inch, Turbine Type Flow Meter with Mechanical Index, permanently 

installed. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1,742.08 1 $1,742.08
Practice: E449F - Intermediate IWM - Year 1, Equipment with Soil or Water Level monitoring

Scenario: #9 - Intermediate IWM - Year 1, Equipment with Soil moisture or Water Level monitoring

Scenario Description:

This activity involves monitoring soil moisture or water levels within a irrigated field for intermediate irrigation water management include installation of equipment year 

1.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,577.97

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.36

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 1 $646.73

Flow Meter, with mechanical 1450

Index

10 inch, Turbine Type Flow Meter with Mechanical Index, permanently 

installed. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $1,742.08 1 $1,742.08

Data Logger 1453 Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management. Materials only. Each $720.50 4 $2,882.00

Soil Moisture Sensor 1456 Soil moisture resistance sensor with 10 foot cables. Equipment only. Each $75.17 12 $902.04

Weather Station, Advanced 2550 Advance Weather Station which collects and records recording rainfall, 

humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed, temperature, and solar 

radiation from a solar powered self-standing tripod to an advance 

weather recording console. Used for both 449 advance irrigation water 

management and for Activity 202 water quality monitoring .

Each $973.44 1 $973.44
Practice: E449G - Intermediate IWM - Years 2-5, Soil or Water Level monitoring

Scenario: #9 - Intermediate IWM - Years 2-5, Soil Moisture or Water Level monitoring

Scenario Description:

Intermediate irrigation water management involves monitoring soil moisture or water levels within an irrigated field by utilizing technological equipment to gather field 

specific data concerning weather, soil moisture or water levels throughout the irrigation season. The equipment was bought in year one and is utilized to log data through 

the season to be retrieved periodically so irrigation decisions can be made based on scientific data. Maximum time between data retrieval is weekly.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 160.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,486.80

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.29

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 15 $478.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 20 $1,008.00
Practice: E449H - Intermediate IWM - Years 2 -5, using soil moisture or water level monitoring

Scenario: #25 - Intermediate IWM - Years 2 - 5, using soil moisture or water level monitoring

Scenario Description:

Intermediate irrigation water management using soil moisture or water level monitoring with data loggers; specifically, multi-depth soil moisture sensors, water well and 

relift permanent flow meters, twice-daily water stage imaging water level devices, and quarter hour climate data element recording weather stations at approved IWM 

plan locations.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the CPS 449 - Irrigation Water Management.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,016.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $50.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 40 $2,016.00
Practice: E449I - Sprinkler Irrigation Equipment Retrofit

Scenario: #25 - IWM - Year 1, Retrofit Equipment with Speed Control on Sprinkler Irrigation

Scenario Description:

This activity involves installing speed control equipment to a sprinkler irrigated field for irrigation water management. The installation of the equipment is in year one. It is 

applicable to sprinkler irrigation systems that do not already have the functionality and are able to integrate the speed control technology.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 - Irrigation Water 

Management.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,800.93

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,800.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Materials

Center Pivot VRI, Speed Control 2727 Center pivot irrigation system using variable rate irrigation using speed 

control technology. Includes controller, sensors, and GPS unit.

Number $1,545.57 1 $1,545.57
Practice: E449J - Intermediate IWM - 20% Reducing Water Usage

Scenario: #9 - Intermediate IWM - 20% Reduced Water Usage

Scenario Description:

Intermediate irrigation water management involves monitoring soil moisture or water levels within an irrigated field by utilizing technological equipment to gather field 

specific data concerning weather, soil moisture or water levels throughout the irrigation season. The equipment will be utilized to log data through the season to be 

retrieved periodically so irrigation decisions can be made based on scientific data. Maximum time between data retrieval is weekly. Monitoring will be for the entire 

irrigation season and data gathered will be used to make sound decisions on irrigation water use. Supplimental Water usage will be reduced by 20% from previous years 

use and remain at that level for the remainder of the contract.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation Water Management.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 449 ??? Irrigation 

Water Management.

Feature Measure: Irrigated Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 125.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,511.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $36.09

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Materials

Soil Moisture Meter 1455 Soil Moisture Sensor Reader. Equipment only. Each $245.42 1 $245.42

Soil Moisture Sensor 1456 Soil moisture resistance sensor with 10 foot cables. Equipment only. Each $75.17 5 $375.85

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: E472A - Manage livestock access to waterbodies to reduce nutrients or pathogens to surface water

Scenario: #1 - Manage livestock access to waterbodies to reduce nutrients or pathogens to surface water

Scenario Description:

Installation of structures and implementation of grazing management actions that restrict livestock access to streams, ditches, and other waterbodies in order to reduce 

nutrient loading or reduce the introduction of pathogens from manure, bio-solids or compost to surface waters. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 472 - Access Control

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 472 - Access Control

Feature Measure: (Stream length protected * 2) + ((C

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,320.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,838.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.91

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 5 $49.90

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 5 $128.00

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 5 $183.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 33 $788.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 5 $155.70

Materials

Wire, Barbed, Galvanized, 12.5 1

Gauge, 1,320' roll

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 1,320' roll. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $119.45 4 $477.80

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 3-4 in. x 9

7 ft.

Wood Post, Line 3-4 inch dia. X 7 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $10.80 20 $216.00

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 8 12

ft.

Wood Post, End 6 inch dia. X 8 ft., CCA Treated. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $23.98 8 $191.84

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 90 $621.00

Fence, Wire Assembly, Barbed 30

Wire

Brace pins, battens, clips, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.20 1320 $264.00

Gate, Pipe, 12 ft. 1057 6 rail tube gate, 16 gauge. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $228.17 2 $456.34

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E484A - Mulching to improve soil health

Scenario: #1 - Mulching to improve soil health

Scenario Description:

Implement a crop rotation which utilizes mulch and addresses all four principle components of soil health: increases diversity of the cropping system; maintains residue 

throughout the year; keeps a living root; and minimizes soil chemical, physical and biological disturbance. Plant-based mulching materials will be applied at least once 

during the rotation. The rotation will include at least 4 different crops and/or cover crops grown in a sequence that will produce a positive trend in the Organic Matter 

(OM) subfactor value over the life of the rotation, as determined by the Soil Conditioning Index (SCI). The current NRCS wind and water erosion prediction technologies 

must be used to document the rotation and SCI calculations.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 484 - Mulching

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 484 - Mulching

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $215.68

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.16

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68
Practice: E484B - Reduce particulate matter emissions by using orchard or vineyard generated woody materials as mulch

Scenario: #1 - Reduce particulate matter emissions by using orchard or vineyard generated woody materials as mulch

Scenario Description:

Reduce particulate matter emissions by using orchard or vineyard generated woody materials as mulch. At least 90% of all woody materials are to be used as mulch on the 

operation. An exception may be made when it is determined that infected material must be burned to preserve crop health.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 484 ??? Mulching

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 484 - Mulching

Feature Measure: Actual Acres of Crop producing Wo

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $622.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $15.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36
Practice: E484C - Mulching with natural materials in specialty crops for weed control

Scenario: #9 - Mulching with natural materials in specialty crops for weed control

Scenario Description:

Application of straw mulch or other state approved natural material (such as wood chips, compost, green chop, dry hay or sawdust) for weed control in specialty crops.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 484 - Mulching

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 484 - Mulching

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $618.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $61.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 2 $73.36

Mulcher, straw blower 1305 Straw bale mulcher/blower to mechanically spread small or large straw 

bales. Labor not included.

Hours $84.61 2 $169.22

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 2 $62.28

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 1.5 $205.50
Practice: E484D - Lowbush Blueberry Field Mulching for Moisture Management

Scenario: #9 - Lowbush blueberry field mulching

Scenario Description:

Full-field application of state-approved natural material such as wood chips for moisture retention to enhance resilience in low bush blueberries (aka wild blueberries).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of CPS 484 Mulching. 484 Mulching is typically used to fill bare spots on wild blueberry fields, which encourages 'blueberry 

sod' to migrate into de-vegetated areas, stabilizing the soil. Blueberry field (barrens) are typically situated in excessively drained soils in locations where irrigation is not 

generally feasible. Increasing incidence of drought each year is stressing plants and negatively impacting yields.

After Situation:

Wood chips are applied to a depth of 2 inches field-wide using typical dry manure spreading equipment. Wood chips hold precipitation in the root zone, preventing 

moisture loss in excessively-drained soils, and add organic matter into the system, improving soil quality over time.

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $141,935.40

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14,193.54

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Manure, compost, application 955 Loading, hauling and spreading manure/compost by ground 

equipment. Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Hours $138.60 45 $6,237.00

Aggregate, Wood Chips 1098 Includes materials, equipment and labor to transport and place. Cubic Yards $50.24 2700 $135,648.00

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E511A - Harvest of crops (hay or small grains) using measures that allow desired species to flush or escape

Scenario: #1 - Harvest of crops (hay or small grains) using measures that allow desired species to flush or escape

Scenario Description:

Harvest of crops (hay or small grains) using conservation measures that allow desired species to flush or escape. (For species list see State Wildlife Action Plan) 

Conservation measures include timing of harvest, idling land during the nesting or fawning period, and applying harvest techniques that reduce mortality to wildlife. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511 - Forage Harvest Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511 - Forage Harvest 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $193.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3.87

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Hay, General Grass 2122 General Grass Hay is Primary Land Use Ton $49.18 1.67 $82.13

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76
Practice: E511B - Forage harvest management that helps maintain wildlife habitat cover, shelter or continuity

Scenario: #1 - Forage harvest management that helps maintain wildlife habitat cover, shelter or continuity

Scenario Description:

The timely cutting and removal of forages from the field as hay, green-chop, or ensilage in such a way, and in time frames, to optimize both forage yield/quality and 

wildlife cover and shelter and/or continuity between otherwise disconnected habitats.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511 - Forage Harvest Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511 - Forage Harvest 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $842.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $8.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 25 $792.50

Month

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E511C - Forage testing for improved harvesting methods and hay quality

Scenario: #9 - Hay quality record keepoing for livestock producers

Scenario Description:

This enhancement results in participants obtaining hay samples and submitting them to a land grant university or other accredited lab for quality analysis. The participant 

will record data for multiple harvests and use the data to make future decisions. The participant will discuss the results with NRCS or with their cooperative extensions 

service. Technical recommendations are made to the participant based upon the test results.

Before Situation:

The participant has hay that doesn't have quality analysis or doesn't know the quality of previous hay harvests. The hay will be fed when needed.

After Situation:

The participant has hay with hay quality analysis. The participant records data based upon the results to reference and make future decisions. The participant has a better 

understanding on the quality of hay so that adjustments in feeding or supplementation can be made.

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $267.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $133.81

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Test, Feed Analysis 1989 Representative sample of feed. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $30.81 2 $61.62
Practice: E511D - Forage Harvest Management to Improve Terrestrial Habitat for Wildlife during Over-Winter Periods

Scenario: #9 - Forage Harvest Management Overwinter

Scenario Description:

Eliminate or forgo the last fall cutting of hay or haylage to optimize wildlife cover and shelter during critical over-winter periods and lengthen late season bloom period for 

invertebrates. Allowing late season stand maturity increases stand life and reduces risks of frost and winter damage while providing valuable wildlife habitat and an 

extended bloom periods.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 511-Forage Harvest Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in CPS - 511

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,108.84

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.72

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 3 $227.52

Foregone Income

FI, Hay, Alfalfa 2121 Alfalfa Hay is Primary Crop Ton $103.89 3 $311.67

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 5 $252.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84
Practice: E512A - Cropland conversion to grass-based agriculture to reduce soil erosion

Scenario: #1 - Cropland conversion to grass-based agriculture to reduce soil erosion

Scenario Description:

Conversion of cropped land to grass-based agriculture to reduce soil erosion. Mixtures of perennial grasses, forbs, and legume species are established on cropland where 

annually-seeded cash crops have been grown.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and 

Biomass Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,056.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.56

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 20 $955.20
Practice: E512B - Forage and biomass planting to reduce soil erosion or increase organic matter to build soil health

Scenario: #1 - Forage and biomass planting to reduce soil erosion or increase organic matter to build soil health

Scenario Description:

Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species suitable for pasture, hay, or biomass production that can provide for reduced 

soil erosion, improving soil health.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and 

Biomass Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,800.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $28.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 20 $2,699.40
Practice: E512C - Cropland conversion to grass for soil organic matter improvement

Scenario: #1 - Cropland conversion to grass for soil organic matter improvement

Scenario Description:

Conversion of cropped land to grass-based agriculture. Mixtures of perennial grasses, forbs, and/or legume species are established on cropland where annually-seeded 

cash crops have been grown.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and 

Biomass Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,434.32

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 20 $955.20
Practice: E512D - Forage plantings that help increase organic matter in depleted soils

Scenario: #1 - Forage plantings that help increase organic matter in depleted soils

Scenario Description:

Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species suitable for pasture, hay, or biomass production that can help improve soil 

quality of depleted sites through increase or conservation of the organic matter in the soil.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and 

Biomass Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,848.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 25 $792.50

Month

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 20 $955.20
Practice: E512I - Establish pollinator and/or beneficial insect and/or monarch habitat

Scenario: #1 - Establish pollinator and/or beneficial insect and/or monarch habitat

Scenario Description:

Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species that can provide nectar for Monarch butterflies and/or pollinators and forage 

and other habitat values for wildlife and livestock, particularly at times when targeted nectar, forage supply and quality, cover, and shelter are not available in other 

pastures.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and 

Biomass Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,941.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.42

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 10 $2,725.90
Practice: E512J - Establish wildlife corridors to provide habitat continuity or access to water

Scenario: #1 - Establish wildlife corridors to provide habitat continuity or access to water

Scenario Description:

Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of perennial, herbaceous species that can provide cover needed for wildlife species of concern to 

move from food/cover/water sources to other food/cover/water sources as needed for their life cycles, and/or to enhance the utility of underused wildlife habitat areas.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and Biomass Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 - Forage and 

Biomass Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,243.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $22.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 25 $792.50

Month

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, Low 2750

Density

Native perennial grasses, may include a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. 

Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and less). 

Includes material and shipping.

Acres $134.97 10 $1,349.70
Practice: E512L - Diversifying Forage Base with Interseeding Forbs and Legumes to Increase Pasture Quality

Scenario: #9 - Diversifying forage base with interseeding forbs and legumes to increase pasture quality.

Scenario Description:

Establishing adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of perennial, herbaceous species that increases the diversity to enhance livestock, forage supply and 

quality, not available in other pastures

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 Pasture and Hay Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 Pasture and 

Hay Planting

Feature Measure: acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,248.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $104.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 8 $255.12

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 50 $707.50

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 50 $1,585.00

Month

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Materials

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2747

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live 

seeds/sq ft and less). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $47.76 50 $2,388.00
Practice: E512M - Forage Plantings that Improve Wildlife Habitat Cover and Shelter or Structure and Composition

Scenario: #9 - Forage plantings that improve wildlife habitat cover and shelter or structure and composition

Scenario Description:

Establishing native adapted and/or compatible species, varieties, or cultivars of herbaceous species for pasture, hay, or biomass production that provide cover and shelter 

or structure and composition for wilddlife.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 Pasture and Hay Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 512 Pasture and 

Hay Planting

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,788.14

Scenario Cost/Unit: $57.88

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2753

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and 

less). Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $190.81 30 $5,724.30
Practice: E528A - Maintaining quantity and quality of forage for animal health and productivity 

Scenario: #1 - Maintaining quantity and quality of forage for animal health and productivity

Scenario Description:

Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals for the purposes of maintaining desired pasture composition/plant vigor and 

improving/maintaining quantity and quality of forage for the animals' health and productivity following the recommendations of a qualifying professional, as detailed in 

the documentation and implementation requirements.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,396.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $4.40

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 36 $1,141.20

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 17 $405.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11

Nutritional Balance Analyzer, 1127

fecal sample analysis only

NIRS fecal analysis, animal performance report. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $46.07 6 $276.42
Practice: E528B - Grazing management that improves monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario: #1 - Grazing management that improves monarch butterfly habitat

Scenario Description:

Implement a grazing management plan that will increase the abundance and diversity of monarch nectar-producing perennial forbs, including milkweed, while maintaining 

ecosystem benefits for other wildlife and livestock.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,007.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 2.5 $79.25

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 1 $23.88

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 2 $692.34
Practice: E528C - Incorporating wildlife refuge areas in contingency plans for wildlife.

Scenario: #1 - Incorporating wildlife refuge areas in contingency plans for wildlife.

Scenario Description:

A prescribed grazing plan that includes 12 month (or longer) rest (non-grazing period equal or greater than one year) of a grazing unit that consists of native grasses and/or 

legumes and/or perennial forbs for the purpose of meeting the needs for drought/disaster contingency plans that will also provide wildlife habitat or wildlife access to 

water for a period of time. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,919.81

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 6 $109.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 15 $475.50

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 4 $180.80

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11
Practice: E528D - Grazing management for improving quantity and quality of food or cover and shelter for wildlife

Scenario: #1 - Grazing management for improving quantity and quality of food or cover and shelter for wildlife

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed will provide the plant structure, density and diversity needed for improving the quantity and quality of cover, shelter and food for the 

desired wildlife species of concern.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $620.39

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00
Practice: E528E - Improved grazing management for enhanced plant structure and composition for wildlife

Scenario: #1 - Improved grazing management for enhanced plant structure and composition for wildlife

Scenario Description:

Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals for the purpose of improving the quantity and quality of the structure and composition of the 

plant community that is available for wildlife.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $525.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $5.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 15 $475.50

Month

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E528F - Stockpiling cool season forage to improve structure and composition or plant productivity and health

Scenario: #1 - Stockpiling cool season forage to improve structure and composition or plant productivity and health

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed to stop grazing events of selected paddock(s) to allow pasture forages to grow to maximum vegetative biomass accumulation before the 

end of the growing season. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,989.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $29.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 6 $109.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 10 $317.00

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Nitrogen (N), Urea 71 Price per pound of N supplied by Urea. Price is not per pound of total 

product applied, no conversion is needed.

Pound $0.66 2000 $1,320.00

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 3 $43.62
Practice: E528G - Improved grazing management on pasture for plant productivity and health with monitoring activities

Scenario: #1 - Improved grazing management on pasture for plant productivity and health with monitoring activities

Scenario Description:

Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals as adjusted when following recommendations of a qualifying professional, as detailed in the 

enhancement criteria, generated through pasture condition scoring (PCS).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,396.90

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.97

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 30 $951.00

Month

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 1 $14.54
Practice: E528H - Prescribed grazing to improve/maintain riparian and watershed function-elevated water temperature 

Scenario: #1 - Prescribed grazing to improve/maintain riparian and watershed function-elevated water temperature 

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed will provide cover and density needed in the watershed in order to reduce runoff, improve infiltration, provide for above ground water 

filtration and sustain applicable fish and wildlife species habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,684.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 17 $405.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11
Practice: E528I - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas -surface or ground water from nutrients

Scenario: #1 - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas -surface or ground water from nutrients

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed will provide cover and density needed in the watershed in order to protect sensitive areas such as sinkholes, streams, highly erodible 

areas, or locations with plants that cannot tolerate defoliation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,893.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 17 $405.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polytape 7 Wire, Polytape for electric fence. Rolls of 655' to 825'. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $63.43 4 $253.72

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11
Practice: E528J - Prescribed grazing on pastureland that improves riparian and watershed function

Scenario: #1 - Prescribed grazing on pastureland that improves riparian and watershed function

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed will provide cover and density needed in the watershed in order to reduce runoff, improve infiltration, provide for above ground water 

filtration and sustain applicable fish and wildlife species habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,761.31

Scenario Cost/Unit: $17.61

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 6 $109.80

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 10 $317.00

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 4 $180.80

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11
Practice: E528L - Prescribed grazing that improves or maintains riparian and watershed function-erosion

Scenario: #1 - Prescribed grazing that improves or maintains riparian and watershed function-erosion

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed will provide cover and density needed in the watershed in order to reduce runoff, improve infiltration, provide for above ground water 

filtration and sustain applicable fish and wildlife species habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,164.36

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 10 $317.00

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 1 $45.20

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17
Practice: E528M - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas from gully erosion

Scenario: #1 - Grazing management that protects sensitive areas from gully erosion

Scenario Description:

Grazing management employed will provide vegetative cover and density needed in the watershed in order to protect sensitive areas such as sinkholes, streams, highly 

erodible areas, or locations that cannot tolerate plant defoliation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,702.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.70

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 12 $219.60

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 17 $405.96

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Wire, Polytape 7 Wire, Polytape for electric fence. Rolls of 655' to 825'. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $63.43 1 $63.43

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 1 $348.11
Practice: E528N - Improved grazing management through monitoring activities

Scenario: #1 - Improved grazing management through monitoring activities

Scenario Description:

Three predominant key grazing areas are evaluated utilizing the Rangeland Health Assessment (where reference material is developed) or Describing Indicators of 

Rangeland Health protocols (where reference material is not developed) to determine how well the ecological processes of the site(s) are functioning. Utilizing knowledge 

learned from this as a part of the ranch resource assessment, a qualifying professional, as detailed in the enhancement criteria, will provide recommendations or follow-up 

evaluations toward mitigating some of the degradation risks that are initially identified. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,997.27

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08
Practice: E528O - Clipping mature forages to set back vegetative growth for improved forage quality

Scenario: #9 - Clipping mature forages to set back vegetative growth for improved forage quality

Scenario Description:

Timely clipping of mature forages through mowing, swathing or some other mechanical cutting will occur to increase forage palatability by setting plants back to a 

vegetative state for improved grazing management and forage quality.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 80.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,770.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 20 $2,359.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 24 $747.36

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: E528P - Implementing Bale or Swath Grazing to increase organic matter and reduce nutrients in surface water

Scenario: #9 - Implementing bale or swath grazing to increase organic matter or reduce nutrients in surface water

Scenario Description:

Bale or swath grazing to improve organic matter, aggregate stability or soil organism habitat or to reduce nutrient risks to surface water by leaving field harvested forages 

on site or supplementing with off-field forages. Grazing forages in this manner, will help reduce nutrient concentrations from confined animal lots while incorporating 

organic matter, feeding and diversifying the microbiome, building better soil aggregation and increasing soil health.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,605.98

Scenario Cost/Unit: $180.30

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 20 $512.00

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 20 $1,516.80

Trailer, flatbed, small 1505 Small flatbed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a pickup 

to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $10.46 20 $209.20

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 40 $1,245.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 1 $14.54
Practice: E528Q - Use of body condition scoring for livestock on a monthly basis to keep track of herd health

Scenario: #9 - Use of body condition scoring for livestock on a monthly basis to keep track of herd health

Scenario Description:

Body condition scoring (BCS) serves as a useful management tool to monitor livestock performance with respect to current and recent feeding or grazing programs. Body 

condition scoring is a numeric scoring system, producers can use to consistently evaluate animals??? estimated body energy reserves through degree of fatness. This 

information can be used to adjust nutritional strategies to reach optimal BCS. Since body condition is closely associated with reproductive performance as well as feed 

efficiency, monitoring body condition can help producers reach production goals and increase the operation???s bottom line. Knowledge and understanding of BCS will 

assist producers to adjust a supplemental feeding program to maintain animal health and nutrition on a-monthly-basis.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $184.19

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.84

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 1 $18.30

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50
Practice: E528R - Management Intensive Rotational Grazing

Scenario: #9 - Management Intensive Rotational Grazing

Scenario Description:

Management intensive, multi-paddock grazing system where livestock are regularly and systematically moved to fresh forage to optimize quantity and quality of forage 

growth, improve manure distribution, improve wildlife cover, and improve soil health.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,113.57

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 10 $183.00

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 15 $358.20

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Materials

Wire, Polywire 8 Wire, Polywire for electric fence - 1,300 ft. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $45.20 2 $90.40

Electric, Ground Rods 20 Electric, Ground Rod for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $16.94 3 $50.82

Electric, Ground Rod Clamps 21 Electric, Ground Rod Clamps for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.41 3 $7.23

Electric, Tester 26 Electric, Tester for electric fence. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $43.90 1 $43.90

Electric, Energizer, Solar 27 Electric, Energizer, Solar for electric fence. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $346.17 1 $346.17

Tank, Polyethylene, 300 gallon 291 Portable heavy duty rubber stock tank. Each $348.11 2 $696.22

Pipe, HDPE, smooth wall, weight 1379

priced

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) compound manufactured into 

smooth wall pipe. Materials only.

Pound $3.71 370 $1,372.70
Practice: E528S - Soil Health Improvements on Pasture

Scenario: #9 - Soil health improvements on pasture

Scenario Description:

Use of soil health assessment to evaluate impact of current grazing system in addressing soil organic matter depletion, soil aggregate instability and soil organism habitat 

loss or degradation (primary assessment made in Year 1). Modifications to the grazing system will be made after the laboratory analysis. Modifications can be 

improvements to the grazing plan or changes to the forage composition. During year 4, a follow-up assessment will be completed to allow time for the modifications to 

show improvements to the soil health resource concerns. The follow-up sample will be taken in the same soil type, closely matched to time of year and with similar 

amounts of regrowth since previous grazing.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (PCS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,178.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $11.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 12 $380.40

Month

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 6 $302.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 1 $107.84

Materials

Test, Soil Health, Basic Package 2734 Basic soil health laboratory assessment for soil organic carbon, 

aggregation, bioavailable nitrogen, respiration, and active carbon 

according to technical note 450-03. Includes shipping and handling.

Number $126.15 1 $126.15
Practice: E528T - Grazing to Reduce Wildfire Risk on Forests

Scenario: #9 - Improved grazing management for reduction of wildfire risks on Western forests

Scenario Description:

Managing the harvest of vegetation with grazing and/or browsing animals for the purpose of balancing forage with maintaining/improving ecological site condition and 

while reducing the risk of wildfire hazard on forested ecological sites.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level with the addition of CPS 528 - Prescribed Grazing

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $114.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1.14

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 1 $50.40
Practice: E528U - Contingency Planning for Resiliency 

Scenario: #9 - Contingency Planning for Resiliency

Scenario Description:

Manage grazing throughout the year to mitigate impacts from drought and improve resiliency by incorporating recovery periods, utilizing non-traditional grazing 

resources, and creating a drought plan.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 528 - Prescribed Grazing.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in CPS - 528.

Feature Measure: acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1,000.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,822.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.82

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 2 $232.78

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 20 $366.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 80 $1,910.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 40 $4,313.60
Practice: E533A - Advanced Pumping Plant Automation

Scenario: #9 - Advanced Pumping Plant Automation

Scenario Description:

This enhancement consists of installing a control device to a pump station that allows the user to remotely monitor and operate the pump station based on field measured 

data. Pumping stations may have either a combustible or electric power unit that are compatible with the control device or sensor. These devices/sensors collect fieldmeasured data and provide this data in real time to the landowner to make irrigation decisions and adjustments to the pump operation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 533 - Pumping Plant.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 533 - Pumping Plant.

Feature Measure: Number

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,670.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6,670.64

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 0.1 $256.36

Switches and Controls, temp 1192

sensors

Temperature and soil moisture sensors installed as part of an electronic 

monitoring (with or without wireless telecommunications) commonly 

used to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $646.73 1 $646.73

Switches and Controls, 1193

programmable controller

Programmable logic controller (with or without wireless 

telecommunications) commonly used to control pumps and irrigation 

systems

Each $623.08 1 $623.08

Switches and Controls, Wi-Fi 1194

system and software

Software with built-in cellular or Wi-Fi communication commonly used 

to control pumps and irrigation systems

Each $786.92 1 $786.92

Switches and Controls, radio 1195

system

Output radio, field transmitter, and receiver commonly used to control 

pumps and irrigation systems

Each $789.40 1 $789.40

Data Logger with Telemetry 1454

System

Data Logger W/Graphic Output for water management and telemetry - 

data communication device with power supply in a weather proof 

enclosure. Equipment only.

Each $1,663.47 1 $1,663.47

Safety Camera on Automated 2474

Pump

Waterproof outdoor wireless IP Network security camera with housing. 

Includes materials only.

Each $218.03 1 $218.03

Engine/Fuel Tank Sensor 2487 Transducer and sensors to monitor the oil pressure, oil and water 

temperatures, fuel flow meter with digital pulse output and fuel levels 

in a tank. Includes the conduit and cabling.

Each $70.43 1 $70.43
Practice: E533B - Complete pumping plant evaluation for energy savings

Scenario: #1 - Complete pumping plant evaluation for energy savings

Scenario Description:

The performance of pump tests and evaluations of all pumping plants to determine the potential to rehabilitate/replace/reconfigure pump performance to reduce energy 

use. Evaluate to determine if a Variable Frequency Drive motor controller(s) will reduce energy use and is feasible. Develop and provide a written report with list of 

adjustments and calculations of the reduction of energy use based on before and after conditions.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 533 - Pumping Plant

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 533 - Pumping Plant

Feature Measure: Each pump evaluated

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,890.04

Scenario Cost/Unit: $3,890.04

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: E533C - Install VFDs on pumping plants

Scenario: #8 - Install variable frequency drive on pump

Scenario Description:

Install Variable Frequency Drive(s) (VFD) on Pumping Plant with the correct sensors, on all pumps as indicated in the evaluation.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 533 ??? Pumping Plant.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard, (CPS) 533 ??? Pumping 

Plant.

Feature Measure: Each pump modified

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $7,003.62

Scenario Cost/Unit: $7,003.62

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Variable Speed Drive, 50 HP 1288 Variable speed drive for 50 Horsepower electric motor. Does not 

include motor. Materials only.

Horsepower $126.05 50 $6,302.50
Practice: E533D - Switch fuel source for pumps 

Scenario: #8 - Switch fuel source for pumps

Scenario Description:

Switch the fuel source for pump motor(s) to an on-farm renewable source (wind, solar, geothermal, etc.)

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 533 ??? Pumping Plant.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in the Conservation Practice Standard, (CPS) 533 ??? Pumping 

Plant.

Feature Measure: Each pump modified

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $18,277.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $18,277.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 4 $102.40

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 12 $383.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1009

fixed cost portion

Fixed cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is the base cost and is not dependent on 

horsepower. The total cost of any pump will include this fixed cost plus 

a variable cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1,659.42 1 $1,659.42

Pump, <= 5 HP, pump and motor, 1010

variable cost portion

Variable cost portion of a pump less than or equal to 5 HP pump and 

motor. This portion is dependent on the total horsepower for the 

pump. The total cost of any pump will include this variable cost plus 

the fixed cost portion. Includes the motor and controls for materials 

and shipping only.

Horsepower $447.82 5 $2,239.10

Solar Panels, fixed cost portion 1031 Fixed cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion is a base cost for all 

Solar Panels and is not dependent on Kilowatt. The total cost of any 

Solar Panels will include this fixed cost plus a variable cost portion. The 

completed Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, 

service drops and etc.).

Each $859.26 1 $859.26

Solar Panels, variable cost portion 1135 Variable cost portion of the Solar Panels. This portion IS dependent on 

the total Kilowatt for the Solar Panels. The total cost of Solar Panels will 

include this variable cost plus the fixed cost portion. The completed 

Solar Panels will include all materials (electrical, controllers, service 

drop, etc.). Includes materials only.

Kilowatt $2,563.62 5 $12,818.10
Practice: E550A - Range planting for increasing/maintaining organic matter

Scenario: #1 - Range planting for increasing/maintaining organic matter

Scenario Description:

Establishment of adapted perennial or self-sustaining vegetation such as grasses, forbs, legumes, shrubs and trees for the purpose of increasing or maintaining organic 

matter levels in the soil.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 550 - Range Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 550 - Range Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,665.15

Scenario Cost/Unit: $46.65

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Foregone Income

FI, Grazing AUMs 2079 Grazing is the Primary Land Use Animal Unit $31.70 15 $475.50

Month

Labor

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2754

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, Grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure live seeds/sq ft). 

Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and shipping.

Acres $272.59 15 $4,088.85
Practice: E550B - Range planting for improving forage, browse, or cover for wildlife

Scenario: #1 - Range planting for improving forage, browse, or cover for wildlife

Scenario Description:

Establishment of adapted perennial or self-sustaining vegetation such as grasses, forbs, legumes, shrubs and trees for the purpose of improving forage, browse, or cover 

for wildlife on areas that have been degraded beyond recovery via ecological principles, or old crop fields and pastures devoid of desirable, native rangeland species that 

fit within an ecological site description steady state.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 550 - Range Planting

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 550 - Range Planting

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,123.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $21.24

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Native Perennial Grasses, 2753

Legumes and/or Forbs, Low 

Density

A mix of native perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, grasses 

typically greater than 50% of the mix, may include a small percentage of 

annual species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the 

CPS. Planted at lower to medium density (40 pure live seeds/sq ft and 

less). Species typically easy to purchase. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $190.81 10 $1,908.10
Practice: E570A - Enhanced rain garden for wildlife

Scenario: #9 - Enhanced rain garden for wildlife

Scenario Description:

Seed or plug nectar and pollen producing plants into rain gardens to provide wildlife habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 570 - Stormwater Runoff Control

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 570 - Stormwater Runoff 

Control

Feature Measure: Square Feet

Scenario Unit: Square Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 1,080.00

Scenario Total Cost: $219.64

Scenario Cost/Unit: $0.20

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Site Preparation, Mechanical 944 Aerator, rolling drum chopper, etc. Includes equipment, power unit 

and labor costs.

Acres $90.21 0.1 $9.02

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 0.1 $1.42

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Straw 1237 Small grain straw (non organic and certified organic). Includes materials 

only.

Ton $137.00 0.3 $41.10

Native Perennial Grasses, 2619

Legumes and/or Forb Mix for 

Targeted Wildlife/Pollinator 

Habitat or Ecological Restoration, 

moderate commercial availability

Diverse mix of native perennial grasses, legumes and forbs, less than 

50% grasses, may include biennials and a small percentage of annual 

species for establishment purposes and/or if allowed by the CPS. This is 

a mix composed of species required to meet specific wildlife/pollinator 

habitat or ecological requirements. Seed is moderately easy to 

purchase commercially. Includes materials and shipping.

Acres $469.81 0.1 $46.98
Practice: E578A - Stream crossing elimination

Scenario: #1 - Stream crossing elimination

Scenario Description:

Existing stream crossings on an operation are consolidated into fewer crossings in order to reduce impacts to stream habitat.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 578 - Stream Crossing

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 578 - Stream Crossing

Feature Measure: Typical feature is 0.09 acres

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $9,515.94

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9,515.94

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Dozer, 80 HP 929 Track mounted Dozer with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment 

and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $79.04 16 $1,264.64

Hydraulic Excavator, 1 CY 931 Track mounted hydraulic excavator with bucket capacity range of 0.8 to 

1.5 CY. Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $131.75 8 $1,054.00

Seeding Operation, Broadcast, 959

Ground

Broadcast seed via ground operation. May require post tillage 

operation to incorporate seed. Includes equipment, power unit and 

labor costs.

Acres $14.15 0.1 $1.42

Truck, dump, 12 CY 1215 Dump truck for moving bulk material. Typically capacity is 16 ton or 12 

cubic yards. Includes equipment only.

Hours $105.68 16 $1,690.88

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 32 $764.16

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 32 $996.48

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 16 $806.40

Materials

Erosion Control Blanket, 1213

biodegradable

Biodegradable erosion control blanket, typically a composite of natural 

fibers with reinforcing polymer netting. Materials and shipping only.

Square Yard $1.62 300 $486.00

Tree & Shrub, Woody, Cuttings, 1308

Medium

Woody cuttings, live stakes or whips typically 1/4 to 1 inch diameter 

and 24 to 48 inches long. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $2.01 300 $603.00

Aggregate, river rock 1834 Well graded, rounded mineral substrates derived from local riverine 

settings. Includes materials and local delivery within 20 miles of quarry 

or pit. Placement costs are not included.

Ton $18.08 42 $759.36

Annual Grasses 2730 Annual grasses, one or more species, mostly introduced but may be 

native. Used for temporary cover or cover crops. Includes material and 

shipping.

Acres $40.79 0.1 $4.08

Introduced Perennial Grasses, 2748

Legumes and/or Forbs, Medium 

Density

Introduced perennial grasses, legumes, and/or forbs, may include a 

small percentage of annual species for establishment purposes and/or if 

allowed by the CPS. Planted at medium to higher density (41-60 pure 

live seeds/sq ft). Includes material and shipping.

Acres $68.23 0.1 $6.82

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E580A - Stream corridor bank stability improvement

Scenario: #1 - Stream corridor bank stability improvement

Scenario Description:

Stream corridor bank vegetation components are established to provide additional streambank stability.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 580 - Streambank and 

Shoreline Protection

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,716.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,358.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 8 $116.48

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 8 $100.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 65 $506.35

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 65 $566.15

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 65 $497.90

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 65 $100.10

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 65 $163.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 65 $343.85

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 195 $421.20
Practice: E580B - Stream corridor bank vegetation improvement

Scenario: #1 - Stream corridor bank vegetation improvement

Scenario Description:

Stream corridor bank vegetation components are established to improve ecosystem functioning and stability.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 580 - Streambank and Shoreline Protection

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 580 - Streambank and 

Shoreline Protection

Feature Measure: Area planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 2.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,716.55

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,358.28

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 8 $146.40

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 8 $116.48

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 8 $100.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 8 $403.20

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 65 $506.35

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Small 1529 Potted hardwood seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $8.71 65 $566.15

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Small 1534 Potted conifer seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.66 65 $497.90

Tree shelter, mesh tree tube, 48 1556

in.

48 inch tall vexar or other open weave tubular tree shelter to protect 

from animal damage. Materials only.

Each $1.54 65 $100.10

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1563

x 24 in.

4 inch x 24 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $2.52 65 $163.80

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 65 $343.85

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. 1578 1 in. x 1 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.16 195 $421.20
Practice: E590A - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risk of nutrient losses

Scenario: #1 - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risk of nutrient losses

Scenario Description:

Nutrient management encompasses managing the amount, source, placement, and timing of the application of plant nutrients and soil amendments. Nutrients are 

currently being applied on the farm based on the 4R nutrient stewardship principles. Enhanced nutrient use efficiency strategies or technologies are utilized to improve 

nutrient use efficiency and reduce risk of nutrient losses to surface and groundwater and reduce risks to air quality by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,388.83

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.89

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor 260 Nitrogen-Urease inhibitor Acres $11.13 100 $1,113.00

Test, Soil Nitrogen Testing 311 Pre-Side Dress/Deep Soil Testing. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $12.03 5 $60.15
Practice: E590B - Reduce risks of nutrient loss to surface water by utilizing precision agriculture technologies

Scenario: #1 - Reduce risks of nutrient loss to surface water by utilizing precision agriculture technologies

Scenario Description:

Precision application technology and techniques are utilized to plan and apply nutrients to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce risk of nutrient losses.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,649.58

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.50

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 35 $508.90
Practice: E590C - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risk of nutrient losses on pasture

Scenario: #9 - Improving nutrient uptake efficiency and reducing risk of nutrient losses on pasture

Scenario Description:

Nutrient management encompasses managing the amount, source, placement, and timing of the application of plant nutrients and soil amendments. Nutrients are 

currently being applied on the farm based on the 4R nutrient stewardship principles. Enhanced nutrient use efficiency strategies or technologies are utilized to improve 

nutrient use efficiency and reduce risk of nutrient losses on pasture.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 590 - Nutrient Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 590 - Nutrient Management

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,937.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $19.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 100 $925.00

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 40 $581.60
Practice: E590D - Reduce nutrient loss by increasing setback awareness via precision technology for water quality

Scenario: #9 - Reduce risks of nutrient losses to surface and groundwater by increasing setback awareness via precision technology

Scenario Description:

Precision technology and techniques are used to increase Soil/Groundwater Setbacks & Associated Application Rate Restrictions (SGS&AARR) implementation during 

nutrient application by providing precise, real-time location information (geo-located) in the field to the equipment operator. While operating nutrient application 

equipment, the operator???s location is continually updated and displayed on an add-on GPS-enabled device visible to the operator at all times to reduce the risk of 

nutrient application in setback and/or sensitive areas. Resource concerns addressed are Water Quality, Field sediment, nutrient and pathogen loss: Nutrients transported 

to groundwater and surface water and Pathogens and chemicals from manure, biosolids or compost applications transported to groundwater and surface water.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient Management.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 590 - Nutrient 

Management.

Feature Measure: Acres with setback for nutrient app

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 300.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,134.86

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 2 $232.78

Equipment Installation

Fertilizer, precision application 952 Fertilizer application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $9.25 300 $2,775.00

Aerial Imagery 966 Aerial imagery. RBG (color), infrared or NDVI single image. Acres $1.77 260 $460.20

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E595A - Reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by utilizing precision pesticide application techniques

Scenario: #1 - Reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by utilizing precision pesticide application techniques

Scenario Description:

Utilize precision application techniques to reduce risk of pesticides in surface water by reducing total amount of chemical applied and reducing the potential for delivery of 

chemicals into water bodies.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,206.52

Scenario Cost/Unit: $12.07

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chemical, precision application 949 Chemical application performed by light bar/GPS navigation system. 

Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $8.83 100 $883.00

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E595B - Reduce risk of pesticides in water and air by utilizing IPM PAMS techniques

Scenario: #1 - Reduce risk of pesticides in water and air by utilizing IPM PAMS techniques

Scenario Description:

Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) prevent, avoidance, monitoring, and suppression (PAMS) techniques to reduce risk of pesticides in water and air. Reduce the 

potential for delivery of chemicals into water or ozone precursor emissions .

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 - Integrated Pest 

Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $642.72

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.43

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 3 $323.52
Practice: E595D - Increase the size requirement of refuges planted to slow pest resistance to Bt crops

Scenario: #1 - Increase the size requirement of refuges planted to slow pest resistance to Bt crops

Scenario Description:

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) plant incorporated protectants are plants that have been genetically altered to produce proteins that are harmful to certain insect pests. 

Widespread implementation of Bt crops has decreased insecticide use and increased crop yields, but it must be used as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) 

approach to protect the crop from pest species that are not susceptible to the Bt toxin and to manage pest resistance. Crop rotation, scouting and resistance management 

strategies, such as planting and creating refuges of non-Bt crops, are essential when farming Bt crops. Insects have developed resistance to Bt proteins. To mitigate the 

development of further resistance, growers are required to plant refuges of non-transgenic crops. These refuges produce numbers of susceptible insects that will help 

sustain populations of non-resistant insects. The size of Refuge requirement depends on the environment, pest and strain of the crop. Size of refuge is determined by 

resistance risk. Most Bt corn requires that 20% of the total Bt crop planted be non-Bt. Cotton can require 50% of the crop be planted to non-Bt. A recent study published 

in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management revealed, compliance has been a challenge. Nearly 40% of growers surveyed did not plant the required refuge (Reisig 2017). 

They credit non-compliance, in part, to lack of understanding by small-scale farmers about the need for refuges.

Before Situation:

Minimal or no refuges were planted as required for Bt crops.

After Situation:

Optimum sized and located refuges are planted for Bt crops.

Feature Measure: Ac

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $534.88

Scenario Cost/Unit: $13.37

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68
Practice: E595E - Eliminate use of chemical treatments to control pests and to increase the presence of dung beetles

Scenario: #1 - Eliminate use of chemical treatments to control pests and to increase the presence of dung beetles

Scenario Description:

Pests and parasites can have a significant impact on the economic viability of livestock operations, by affecting the performance and health of animals. The use of broadspectrum insecticides, pour-ons and avermectins have been shown to have a detrimental effect on dung beetle populations. Having a healthy population of dung beetles 

facilitates the recycling of nutrients and promotes soil and grassland health. By eliminating the application of broad-spectrum insecticides, pour-ons, and avermectins, 

including injectable avermectins, for pest control in and on livestock along with rotational grazing and higher stock densities has shown to increase the dung beetle 

population. Use of natural or alternative methods of pest control over multiple years is encouraged.

Before Situation:

Pests and parasites can have a significant impact on the economic viability of livestock operations, by affecting the performance and health of animals. The use of broadspectrum insecticides, pour-ons and avermectins have been shown to have a detrimental

After Situation:

Having a healthy population of dung beetles facilitates the recycling of nutrients and promotes soil and grassland health. By eliminating the application of broad-spectrum 

insecticides, pour-ons, and avermectins, including injectable avermectins, for pest

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 500.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,997.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $6.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 26 $475.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 10 $319.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 10 $504.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 12 $1,294.08
Practice: E595F - Improving Soil Organism Habitat on Agricultural Land

Scenario: #9 - Improving soil organism habitat on agricultural land

Scenario Description:

To reduce or eliminate the use of seed treatments in corn and soybean cropping systems to promote beneficial organism populations and pest control. Beneficial 

organisms such as the Carabidae beetle are very important in the population control of common agricultural pests like the grey garden slug. Slugs are a common pest in 

no-till and heavily cover cropped fields. Slugs are mollusks and can ingest some treatments with no adverse effects. Beneficial organism populations can be negatively 

impacted when they consume slugs exposed to seed treatments. The reduction or elimination of routine seed treatments in these cash crop systems may increase 

beneficial insect populations.

Before Situation:

Seed treatments are used on crops.

After Situation:

Producers effectively reduce or eliminate seed treatment use in their cropping rotations either by eliminating seed treatments on corn-soybean rotations or eliminating 

seed treatments on corn.

Feature Measure: Acres Planted

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $539.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $10.78

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E595G - Reduced resistance risk by utilizing PAMS techniques

Scenario: #9 - Reduced resistance risk by utilizing PAMS techniques

Scenario Description:

Design and implementation of an integrated pest management plan that will Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) prevention, avoidance, monitoring, and 

suppression (PAMS) techniques to reduce pesticide resistance and address plant pest pressure. Increased resistance leads to increased use of more toxic pesticides and 

increased risk of delivery of chemicals to water or ozone precursor emissions.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 595 ??? Pest Management Conservation Systems

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level described in Conservation practice Standard (CPS) 595 Pest Management 

Conservation System.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 100.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,492.71

Scenario Cost/Unit: $14.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Acquisition of Technical Knowledge

Training, Workshops 294 Educational seminar or series of meetings emphasizing interaction and 

exchange of information among a usually small number of participants.

Each $116.39 1 $116.39

Equipment Installation

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 4 $73.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72
Practice: E612B - Planting for high carbon sequestration rate

Scenario: #10 - Planting for high carbon storage rate

Scenario Description:

Plant tree species and use stocking levels for higher growth to increase the rate of carbon sequestration (capture). Use species with a longer life span as well as relatively 

fast growth, and species suitable for durable manufactured products. Increase stocking levels in forests that are not fully stocked. Implement afforestation on appropriate 

open lands.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub 

Establishment

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $13,178.17

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,635.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 5 $412.95

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 54 $675.54

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 54 $1,289.52

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 9 $453.60

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 5 $63.30

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 5 $56.70

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 5 $8.05

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, Small 1509 Bare root hardwood seedlings 6 to 18 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 8 cubic inches or smaller. Includes materials 

and shipping only.

Each $1.00 1075 $1,075.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 1075 $7,170.25

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 3225 $225.75

Stakes, wood, 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. 1577 1 in. x 1 in. x 36 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $1.01 1075 $1,085.75
Practice: E612C - Establishing tree/shrub species to restore native plant communities

Scenario: #1 - Establishing tree/shrub species to restore native plant communities

Scenario Description:

Establish trees and/or shrubs to restore elements of plant diversity that have been lost through past diseases or improper management. For example, disease-resistant 

varieties of elm and chestnut can be established to restore the ecological functions of American elm and American chestnut. At the stand level, past forest management 

may have eliminated certain native tree species. Restoring stand-level diversity and function addresses a wide array of resource concerns and strengthens ongoing 

management activities. This enhancement improves a forest that is already in good condition by increasing plant diversity, and improving health and vigor through adding 

plants with resistance to disease, pests, or other local hazards. Additional benefits include contributing to carbon storage, and providing diversity in wildlife habitat and 

food sources. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub 

Establishment

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,267.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,053.45

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 12 $150.12

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 12 $286.56

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Shrub, Potted, Small 1524 Potted shrub seedling, 1 quart to 1 gallon. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $7.79 50 $389.50

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 100 $1,578.00

Tree, Conifer, Potted, Medium 1537 Potted conifer seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $13.80 100 $1,380.00

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 150 $1,000.50
Practice: E612D - Adding food-producing trees and shrubs to existing plantings

Scenario: #1 - Adding food-producing trees and shrubs to existing plantings

Scenario Description:

Plant food-producing trees and shrubs for wildlife within windbreaks, alley cropping, multi-story cropping, silvopasture systems, and/or riparian forest buffers.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub 

Establishment

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,513.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $251.34

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 10 $183.00

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 10 $125.10

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 341 $603.57

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 340 $686.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E612E - Cultural plantings

Scenario: #1 - Cultural plantings

Scenario Description:

Plant trees and shrubs that are of cultural significance, such as those species utilized by Tribes in traditional practices, medicinal plants, species used in basket-making, etc. 

(e.g., paper birch, slippery elm, witch hazel).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub 

Establishment

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,415.63

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,415.63

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 10 $125.10

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 681 $1,375.62

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E612F - Sugarbush management

Scenario: #1 - Sugarbush management

Scenario Description:

Establish or maintain species diversity in a sugarbush to enhance pollinator and wildlife needs. Maintain at least 20% of basal area in species other than sugar maple (Acer 

saccharum) to provide species diversity. Half of the trees that are not sugar maples (10%) will be mast producing species (hard or soft mass). Use maple tree tapping 

guidelines that minimize tree damage.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub 

Establishment

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $918.46

Scenario Cost/Unit: $918.46

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 2 $12.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 1 $82.59

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 2 $25.02

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 0.5 $6.33

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 20 $315.60

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1567

x 60 in.

4 inch x 60 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $6.67 20 $133.40

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 60 $4.20

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 1583

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 60 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.43 20 $48.60
Practice: E612G - Tree/shrub planting for wildlife food

Scenario: #1 - Tree/shrub planting for wildlife food

Scenario Description:

Tree or shrub planting to enhance habitat for native wildlife. A minimum of five tree or shrub species will be used; they will be species that provide food and/or cover for 

identified wildlife species. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub Establishment

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 612 - Tree/Shrub 

Establishment

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,280.79

Scenario Cost/Unit: $2,280.79

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Chemical, ground application 948 Chemical application performed by ground equipment. Includes 

equipment, power unit and labor costs.

Acres $6.79 1 $6.79

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 11 $137.61

Foregone Income

FI, Corn Dryland 1959 Dryland Corn is Primary Crop Acres $352.48 0.41 $144.52

FI, Soybeans Dryland 1961 Dryland Soybeans is Primary Crop Acres $266.95 0.36 $96.10

FI, Wheat Dryland 1963 Dryland Wheat is Primary Crop Acres $195.98 0.23 $45.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 11 $262.68

Materials

Herbicide, Glyphosate 334 A broad-spectrum, non-selective systemic herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST 

for product names and active ingredients. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Acres $12.66 1 $12.66

Herbicide, Sulfometuron & 344

metsulfuron

A residual sulfonylurea herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds and some 

annual grasses. It is a systemic compound with foliar and soil activity. 

Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $11.34 1 $11.34

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Shrub, Seedling, Medium 1507 Bare root shrub seedling, 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $1.77 605 $1,070.85

Tree, Hardwood, Seedling, 1510

Medium

Bare root hardwood seedlings 18 to 36 inches tall; includes tropical 

containerized seedlings of 10 to 20 cubic inches. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $2.02 218 $440.36
Practice: E643A - Restoration of sensitive coastal vegetative communities

Scenario: #1 - Restoration of sensitive coastal vegetative communities

Scenario Description:

Enhance the level of restoration in unique and diminishing coastal ecosystems by establishing native herbaceous and woody plants. Protect established vegetation, and 

manage to maintain floristic quality and the provision of environmental services. This enhancement is applied on unique areas with rare and declining habitat conditions, 

where vegetation has been detrimentally altered by human or natural events. Targeted sites are those that formerly supported vegetative communities that are now 

declining and/or becoming rare. The sites will vary across the continent. The enhancement will expand and elevate the process of restoring these unique areas, increasing 

their ecological value and benefits to wildlife. It re-establishes a select group of trees and/or shrubs that are key components in this ecosystem.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 643 - Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 643 - Restoration and 

Management of Rare and Declining Habitats

Feature Measure: Each

Scenario Unit: Each

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,787.05

Scenario Cost/Unit: $151.48

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 8 $459.36

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 8 $100.08

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 2 $100.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 7 $754.88

Materials

Post, Steel T, 1.33 lbs, 6 ft. 15 Steel Post, Studded 6 ft. - 1.33 lb. Includes materials and shipping only. Each $6.90 50 $345.00

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 5 $61.95

Cattle Panel 1409 Welded wire cattle panel typically 1/4 inch galvanized steel rods, 50 in. 

high x 16 ft. long. Materials only.

Each $32.94 25 $823.50

Tree, Hardwood, Potted, Medium 1532 Potted hardwood seedling, 2 gallons or larger. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $15.78 25 $394.50

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E643B - Restoration and management of rare or declining habitat

Scenario: #1 - Restoration and management of rare or declining habitat

Scenario Description:

Provide protection from adverse environmental conditions to create refugia for documented occurrences of sensitive plant communities.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 643 - Restoration and Management of Rare and Declining Habitats

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 643 - Restoration and 

Management of Rare and Declining Habitats

Feature Measure: Feet of Fence

Scenario Unit: Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 440.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,366.65

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Auger, Post driver attachment 934 Auger or post driver attachment to a tractor or skidsteer. Does not 

include power unit. Labor not included.

Hours $9.98 8 $79.84

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 2 $12.72

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 8 $204.80

Tractor, agricultural, 60 HP 963 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 50 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $36.68 8 $293.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 2 $215.68

Materials

Wire, Woven, Galvanized, 12.5 4

Gauge, 48 inch

Galvanized 12.5 gauge, 48 in. - 330' roll. Includes materials and 

shipping only.

Each $318.26 3 $954.78

Post, Wood, CCA treated, 6 in. x 13

12-14 ft.

Wood Post, Line/End 6 inch dia. X 12-14 ft., CCA Treated. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Each $37.02 38 $1,406.76

Fence, Wire Assembly, Woven 35

Wire

Brace pins, twist sticks, staples. Includes materials and shipping only. Feet $0.15 1648 $247.20

Gate, Game, 8 ft. High X 4 ft. Wide 1082 4 Foot wide game gate (8 feet tall). Includes materials and shipping 

only.

Each $262.53 1 $262.53

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E643C - Restore glade habitat to benefit threatened and endangered species and state species of concern

Scenario: #9 - Restore glade habitat to benefit threatened and endangered species and state species of concern

Scenario Description:

Restore Glade natural communities as shown by the Ecological Site Description to conserve biodiversity. Enhancement requires reducing woody canopy cover and 

applying at least one prescribed fire to treated acres. Restoration of glade communities provide habitat for rare and declining species. Sites that previously or currently 

support the rare and declining habitat will be targeted for restoration.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 643 - Restoration of Rare or Declining Habitat.

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 643 - Restoration of Rare or 

Declining Habitat.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 5.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,319.50

Scenario Cost/Unit: $1,263.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Skidsteer, 80 HP 933 Skidsteer loader with horsepower range of 60 to 90. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $57.42 2 $114.84

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 80 $508.80

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2.5 $64.00

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 1.5 $123.89

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 22 $402.60

Water tank, portable 1602 Portable water tank transported in a pick up truck. Typically with 200 

gallon capacity includes tank with pump, hose and sprayer. Does not 

include the pickup truck. Equipment only.

Hours $12.97 2 $25.94

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 116 $3,702.72

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 4 $201.60

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 0.5 $17.08

Fuel, ignition fuel mixture 1596 Mixture of gasoline and diesel for ignition of prescribed burns. 

Materials only.

Gallons $3.71 5 $18.55

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 2 $367.60

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 1 $771.88
Practice: E643D - Low-tech process-based restoration to enhance floodplain connectivity

Scenario: #3 - Low-tech process-based restoration to enhance floodplain connectivity

Scenario Description:

This enhancement is intended to kick-start natural ecological, geomorphic and hydrologic processes required for improvement and maintenance of healthy and 

functioning streams and associated floodplains in situations where planning criteria has already been met but restoration or enhancement is desired to improve floodplain 

connectivity, riparian condition and move towards Stage 0 stream conditions. Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs) and/or Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS) are low-tech 

structures used to facilitate process-based restoration of rare and declining 'Stage 0' stream conditions by mimicking, promoting, and sustaining the natural processes of 

beaver dam activity and wood accumulation that lead to more fully connected floodplains. BDAs and PALS are hand-built with a mixture of woody debris and on-site soils 

and vegetation.

Before Situation:

State approved evaluation tool identifies that stream reaches meet planning criteria.

After Situation:

Wetted area associated with stream reach has expanded due to increase in floodplain connectivity, improvement of riparian condition and movement towards State 0 

stream conditions

Feature Measure: Linear feet

Scenario Unit: Linear Feet

Scenario Typical Size: 400.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,621.24

Scenario Cost/Unit: $41.55

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 24 $152.64

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 12 $307.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 18 $329.40

Hand tools, tree planting 1590 Various hand tools for digging holes and planting trees such as augers, 

dibble bars, planting shovel, hoe-dad. Equipment only. Labor not 

included.

Hours $12.51 48 $600.48

Portable Post Driver 2722 Gas or Hydraulic Powered Post Driver, Portable, <300 lbs, labor not 

included

Hours $17.49 48 $839.52

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 60 $1,915.20

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 120 $2,865.60

Supervisor or Manager 234 Labor involving supervision or management activities. Includes crew 

supervisors, foremen and farm/ranch managers time required for 

adopting new technology, etc.

Hours $50.40 60 $3,024.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 30 $3,235.20

Materials

Post, Wood, Untreated, 3-4 in. x 7 2721

ft.

Round Post, Wood, Untreated, 3-4 inch diameter x 7 feet Each $8.38 400 $3,352.00
Practice: E644A - Managing Flood-Irrigated Landscapes for Wildlife

Scenario: #1 - Managing Flood-Irrigated Landscapes for Wildlife

Scenario Description:

Developing and implementing a conservation plan that supports maintenance of flood-irrigation in key landscapes to provide important foraging habitat for local breeding 

and migratory waterfowl and waterbirds.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 644 ??? Wetland Wildlife Habitat Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 644 ??? Wetland 

Wildlife Habitat Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,294.96

Scenario Cost/Unit: $25.90

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 22 $525.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E645A - Reduction of attractants to human-subsidized predators in sensitive wildlife species habitat

Scenario: #1 - Reduction of attractants to human-subsidized predators in sensitive wildlife species habitat

Scenario Description:

Reduction of artificial perching sites, nest sites, food, and water available to subsidized predators in areas where human-subsidized predators are a threat to sensitive 

wildlife species. Human-subsidized predators may include ravens, crows, magpies, coyotes, foxes, skunks, raccoons, and other species. Activities under this enhancement 

may include removal of non- native or invasive trees; removal of unused power poles, corrals, windmills, buildings, and other vertical structures; and/or removal or 

management of watering facilities, dead livestock, road kill, garbage, animal feed, dumps, and other non-natural food sources.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 645 - Upland Wildlife 

Habitat Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Number

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,110.08

Scenario Cost/Unit: $52.75

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 24 $614.40

Trailer, enclosed, small 1503 Small enclosed trailer (typically less than 30' in length) pulled by a 

pickup to transport materials and equipment. Truck not included.

Hours $14.56 24 $349.44

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 48 $1,146.24
Practice: E645B - Manage existing shrub thickets to provide adequate shelter for wildlife

Scenario: #9 - Manage existing shrub thickets to provide adequate shelter for wildlife

Scenario Description:

Existing shrub thickets provide an instant and important cover for wildlife. Various wildlife species may use shrubs as winter/thermal cover, summer shade, roosting, or as 

escape cover from predators. Proper management ensures that these shrubs will continue to provide the desired benefits for the local wildlife. A combination of 

herbicide treatments, cutting and trimming branches, and removal of other competing vegetation will occur. An eligible existing shrub thicket needs to have a canopy 

cover of 750 square feet, with an end goal of expanding to 1500 square feet. Any existing shrub thicket (not hand planted within the last 5 years) are eligible for this 

enhancement. Shrub thickets found within fence rows may now be very wide, but still meet the 750 square feet, are eligible.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat 

Management

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $405.00

Scenario Cost/Unit: $405.00

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 2 $12.72

Pruning tools, hand tools 1318 Pruning tools, hand tools, shears, loppers, pole saw, handsaw. Material 

costs only. Labor not included.

Hours $2.31 2 $4.62

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 2 $63.84

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 1 $42.89

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 1 $1.61

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: E645C - Edge feathering for wildlife cover

Scenario: #9 - Edge feathering for wildlife cover

Scenario Description:

Selected trees are cut and brush clipped along the border between a wooded area and a grassland, cropland, or idle land, creating a dense woody cover of interlocking 

branches at ground level. The feathered edge will be an average of 30 feet wide and a minimum of 50 feet long, resulting in an area of 1500 square feet. The width of the 

strip will vary to follow topographic features and to create a wavy border; the design will also consider aesthetics. Vegetative composition and cover will vary within the 

edge, ranging from areas with no trees and shrubs to areas with scattered trees and extensive shrub cover. The variation in vegetation structure along with variable width 

of the edge will create feathering. The edge may include shrub plantings for wildlife food and aesthetics.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard 645 - Upland Wildlife Habitat 

Management

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 1.00

Scenario Total Cost: $928.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $928.18

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 2 $165.18

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 8 $255.36

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 2 $47.76

Materials

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 1 $34.16

Mobilization

Mobilization, very small 1137

equipment

Equipment that is small enough to be transported by a pick-up truck 

with typical weights less than 3,500 pounds. Can be multiple pieces of 

equipment if all hauled simultaneously.

Each $183.80 1 $183.80
Practice: E645D - Wildlife Habitat Management Plan for Upland Landscapes

Scenario: #13 - Wildlife Habitat Management Plan for Upland Landscapes

Scenario Description:

Develop and implement a wildlife habitat management plan that removes or significantly reduces the impact of existing land management activities occurring within 

agricultural landscapes (on any land use) causing chronic disturbance to wildlife during breeding, rearing, migration and over- wintering periods. Site monitoring may be 

necessary to identify and document sources of disturbance to wildlife. Examples of adjustments to existing management activities that can reduce disturbance to a 

tolerable level include: use of integrated pest management; capping of open vertical pipes; provision of wildlife-friendly water access and egress; and reduction of noise or 

movement within key migratory, nesting, rearing, loafing or hiding locations.

Before Situation:

The inadequate terrestrial wildlife habitat concern has been addressed under Conservation Practice Standard 645 and minimum planning criteria for the terrestrial wildlife 

habitat resource concern has been met. However, disturbance related impacts tied to the agricultural operation are negatively impacting wildlife.

After Situation:

Land management activities occurring within the agricultural landscape (on any land use) have been adjusted to avoid causing chronic disturbance to wildlife during 

breeding, rearing, migration and over- wintering periods has been addressed. Planning criteria for the terrestrial wildlife habitat resource concern exceeds minimum 

planning criteria.

Feature Measure: Acres of Improved Habitat

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $365.10

Scenario Cost/Unit: $9.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 3 $76.80

Rangeland/grassland field 967

monitoring kit

Miscellaneous tools needed to complete rangeland/grassland 

monitoring. Materials may include camera, clippers, plot frame, scale, 

tape measure, etc. Includes materials and shipping only.

Each $49.50 1 $49.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 10 $238.80
Practice: E646A - Close structures to capture and retain rainfall for waterfowl and wading bird winter habitat

Scenario: #1 - Close structures to capture and retain rainfall for waterfowl and wading bird winter habitat

Scenario Description:

When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide ideal foraging habitat for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds . In addition, 

flooded conditions promote establishment of aquatic invertebrate populations, thus providing protein-rich food sources for shorebirds as well as waterfowl and wading 

birds.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water 

Development and Management

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,374.69

Scenario Cost/Unit: $27.49

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2.5 $79.73

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 22 $525.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20
Practice: E646B - Extend retention of captured rainfall for migratory waterfowl and wading bird late winter habitat 

Scenario: #1 - Extend retention of captured rainfall for migratory waterfowl and wading bird late winter habitat 

Scenario Description:

When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, agricultural fields provide ideal foraging habitat for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds. Harvested and 

idled agricultural lands, notably those occurring within rice rotations, contain high densities of residual (i.e., waste) grain and natural seeds following harvest. In addition, 

flooded conditions promote establishment of aquatic invertebrate populations, thus providing protein-rich food sources for shorebirds as well as waterfowl and wading 

birds. Benefits may become greatest during late winter and early spring as birds are assimilating nutrient and fat reserves in preparation for northward migration. 

However, agricultural fields flooded during fall-winter are typically drained during late January or February in advance of spring planting. This often results in a rapid 

reduction in available habitat, and may constrain ability of migratory birds to adequately prepare for migration, with greatest impacts likely occurring during years of low 

winter precipitation. Retention of water on agricultural lands into early spring will produce maximum benefits to migratory waterfowl and shorebirds by providing high 

quality habitat during a time when habitat may otherwise be in low abundance. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water 

Development and Management

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,629.25

Scenario Cost/Unit: $32.58

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 11 $281.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 2.5 $79.73

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04
Practice: E646C - Manipulate vegetation and maintain closed structures for shorebirds mid-summer habitat

Scenario: #1 - Manipulate vegetation and maintain closed structures for shorebirds mid-summer habitat

Scenario Description:

Suitable shorebird habitat is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding and providing shallow water and mud flat habitat will benefit a 

variety of shorebird species. Optimal conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced through evaporation, which allows for propagation of invertebrates 

(typically insect larvae) used as food by shorebirds. Manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open conditions required by this suite of birds as a 

means to detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water 

Development and Management

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,156.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $63.13

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 9 $230.40

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 4.5 $143.51

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 50 $1,104.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 22 $525.36

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 5 $539.20

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: E646D - Manipulate vegetation and maintain closed structures for shorebird late summer habitat 

Scenario: #1 - Manipulate vegetation and maintain closed structures for shorebird late summer habitat 

Scenario Description:

Suitable shorebird habitat is limited during the summer and fall as birds migrate south post-breeding. Providing shallow water and mud flat habitat will benefit a variety of 

shorebird species. Optimal conditions are created when water levels are slowly reduced through evaporation, which allows for propagation of invertebrates (typically 

insect larvae) used as food by shorebirds. Manipulation of vegetation, preferably through rolling, creates open conditions required by this suite of birds as a means to 

detect and avoid predators, and provides nutrient inputs for invertebrate production.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 646 - Shallow Water 

Development and Management

Feature Measure: acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,443.06

Scenario Cost/Unit: $68.86

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 11 $281.60

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 5.5 $175.40

Tillage, Primary 946 Includes heavy disking (offset) or chisel plow. Includes equipment, 

power unit and labor costs.

Acres $22.09 50 $1,104.50

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 26 $620.88

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 6 $647.04

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: E647A - Manipulate vegetation on fields with captured rainfall for waterfowl & wading bird winter habitat

Scenario: #1 - Manipulate vegetation on fields with captured rainfall for waterfowl & wading bird winter habitat 

Scenario Description:

Harvested and idled agricultural lands, notably those occurring within rice rotations, contain high densities of residual (i.e., waste) grain and natural seeds following 

harvest. Seed densities in harvested rice fields may rival those documented in intensively managed moist-soil units, especially in the Gulf Coast and Central Valley of 

California. When flooded to shallow depths during fall and winter, these agricultural fields provide ideal foraging habitat for myriad species of waterfowl and wading birds. 

In addition, flooded conditions promote establishment of aquatic invertebrate populations, thus providing protein-rich food sources for shorebirds as well as waterfowl 

and wading birds. In many cases, light manipulation of dense vegetation is needed to improve the accessibility of food resources to waterfowl, wading birds, and 

shorebirds.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional 

Habitat Development and Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,399.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 8 $606.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: E647B - Provide early successional shorebird habitat between first crop and ratoon crop

Scenario: #1 - Provide early successional shorebird habitat between first crop and ratoon crop

Scenario Description:

Many declining suites of wildlife species rely on early successional habitats for at least part of their life cycle needs. Migratory shorebird species in particular rely on open, 

moist soil or shallowly flooded conditions for foraging and security. Rice farms support many migratory and resident water bird species. The first rice crop harvest often 

coincides with the arrival of early migrating shorebirds. This time of year is also the highest rainfall months. If standing rice stubble from the first crop is rolled to push 

above-ground stalks level with the soil surface, the first component of this type of habitat is met. When moisture is added to this situation, short-term habitat is available 

until the ratoon crop initiates growth to a height beyond that which would provide benefit to the early successional species.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional 

Habitat Development and Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,399.60

Scenario Cost/Unit: $47.99

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Tractor, agricultural, 120 HP 962 Agricultural tractor with horsepower range of 90 to 140. Equipment and 

power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $75.84 8 $606.72

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Mobilization

Mobilization, medium equipment 1139 Equipment with 70-150 HP or typical weights between 14,000 and 

30,000 pounds.

Each $771.88 2 $1,543.76
Practice: E647C - Maintain most soil vegetation on cropland edges to enhance waterfowl and shorebird habitat

Scenario: #1 - Maintain most soil vegetation on cropland edges to enhance waterfowl and shorebird habitat

Scenario Description:

The wetter or more water saturated portions of cropland fields such as areas adjacent to field drains, have the potential to produce a significant amount of moist soil 

plants which are a tremendously valuable source of forage and cover for many waterfowl, shorebird and wading bird species, especially during a period of time when such 

plants may be limited. Under normal cropland production, the native vegetation is restricted on these sites through mechanical and/or chemical control. These 

maintained moist soil plants also will provide filtering and improve water quality.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional 

Habitat Development and Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $802.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: E647D - Establish and maintain early successional habitat in ditches and bank borders 

Scenario: #1 - Establish and maintain early successional habitat in ditches and bank borders 

Scenario Description:

This enhancement is to encourage the establishment of early successional, naturally occurring vegetation in ditches, side slope and bank borders to provide cover, critical 

nesting and brood rearing habitat as well as filtering overland flow and improving water quality. Ditches perform the critical function of removing water from agricultural 

lands. Allowing naturally occurring vegetation to develop along ditches, including side slopes, banks and borders, will help provide food and cover for wildlife while 

enhancing aquatic habitat and improving water quality. Ditches and ditch borders provide a foundation that supports a diverse wildlife community including Northern 

Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) and other birds preferring early successional cover. Rabbits, furbearers, amphibians and many other species that inhabit agriculture areas 

will use this vegetative cover. These areas can also provide critical nesting habitat for the Mottled Duck (Anas fulvigula).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional Habitat Development and Management

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 647 - Early Successional 

Habitat Development and Management

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $802.73

Scenario Cost/Unit: $16.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mower, Bush Hog 940 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $31.89 3 $95.67

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 3 $93.42

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 2 $613.64
Practice: E666A - Maintaining and improving forest soil quality

Scenario: #1 - Maintaining and improving forest soil quality

Scenario Description:

Adopts guidelines for maintaining and improving soil quality on sites where forest management activities are practiced. These guidelines will increase soil organic matter 

content, improve nutrient cycling, and increase infiltration and retention of precipitation. Avoiding soil compaction will allow for greater root development and tree 

growth, limit windthrow, and reduce drought stress. Increasing carbon storage on site will maintain the soil microbial community and provide wildlife benefits.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 50.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,178.33

Scenario Cost/Unit: $43.57

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 4 $25.44

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 4 $73.20

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 13 $1,401.92

Materials

Test, Soil Test, Standard 299 Includes materials, shiping, labor, and equipment costs. Each $14.54 10 $145.40

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 5 $61.95

Certified Organic, Annual Grasses, 2343

Legumes and/or Forbs

Annual grasses, mostly introduced but may be native. Used for 

temporary cover or cover crops. Certified organic. Includes material 

and shipping only.

Acres $76.06 3 $228.18
Practice: E666D - Forest management to enhance understory vegetation

Scenario: #1 - Forest management to enhance understory vegetation

Scenario Description:

This enhancement provides for management of the understory vegetation in a forested area by mechanical, chemical, and/or manual methods to improve the plant 

species mix and the health of the residual vegetation. Managing the understory vegetation increases available water to the plants, minimizes runoff and erosion, and 

improves water quality. An adequately stocked forest provides inputs of leaves, needles, and woody twigs and stems to the forest floor, adding to soil organic matter and 

contributing to forest soil health. Desirable tree species and understory vegetation, with spacing that allows ground cover to develop, will allow moisture to infiltrate and 

be stored in the soil, releasing moisture over longer periods of time. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,058.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $302.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 16 $1,887.84

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 16 $1,321.44

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 11 $1,186.24

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E666E - Reduce height of the forest understory to limit wildfire risk

Scenario: #1 - Reduce height of the forest understory to limit wildfire risk

Scenario Description:

Forest stand improvement that manages forest structure to reduce the risk of wildfire, and creates conditions that facilitate prescribed burning. The fire risk reduction is 

accomplished by reducing the height of the woody understory and midstory, creating space between the ground cover and the tree canopy. This enhancement provides 

for management of the understory vegetation in a forested area, using mechanical, chemical or manual methods to improve the plant species mix and the health of the 

residual vegetation, and reduce the risk of wildfire. In appropriate stands, the treatment creates conditions that favor prescribed burning. Forest stand improvement (FSI) 

activities are used to remove trees of undesirable species, form, quality, condition, or growth rate. The quantity and quality of forest for wildlife and/or timber production 

will be increased by manipulating stand density and structure. These treatments can also reduce wildfire hazards, improve forest health, restore natural plant 

communities, and achieve or maintain a desired native understory plant community for soil health, wildlife, grazing, and/or browsing. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,058.38

Scenario Cost/Unit: $302.92

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 16 $1,887.84

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 16 $1,321.44

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 16 $498.24

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 11 $1,186.24

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E666F - Reduce forest stand density to create open stand structure

Scenario: #1 - Reduce forest stand density to create open stand structure

Scenario Description:

Reducing forest stand density creates open forest conditions with a low basal area which promotes the health and vigor of the residual trees. The open stand structure 

allows a significant amount of sunlight to reach the forest floor and stimulates the growth of understory vegetation. Understory vegetation management, along with the 

wide spacing between trees or clumps of trees, provides visual appeal, lowers the risk of wildfire, and provides habitat for many at-risk and listed wildlife species. The 

enhancement creates conditions that facilitate a follow-up treatment with prescribed burning. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 20.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,985.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $349.26

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 20 $2,359.80

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 20 $1,651.80

Labor

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 20 $622.80

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 11 $1,186.24

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 20 $857.80

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E666G - Reduce forest density and manage understory along roads to limit wildfire risk and improve habitat

Scenario: #1 - Reduce forest density and manage understory along roads to limit wildfire risk and improve habitat

Scenario Description:

Opening the tree canopy along roads ('daylighting'), and providing space between ground vegetation and tree crowns minimizes the spread of wildfires that often start 

along roads, and improves wildlife habitat and food sources for many species. Some trees near a forest road are removed through harvesting, cutting, mulching, or 

another option available at the site, with the objective of creating a partially open forest canopy bordering the road. A semi-open canopy allows more sunlight to reach 

the forest floor to promote herbaceous understory plants, and reduces maintenance needs by allowing moisture to evaporate from roads. The reduced canopy and 

herbaceous understory limit woodland fuel buildup and reduce fire intensity.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $3,387.30

Scenario Cost/Unit: $338.73

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 8 $50.88

Mechanical cutter, chopper 943 Forestry mulcher, flail shredder, hydro axe, brush cutter, etc. 

Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included.

Hours $117.99 8 $943.92

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 8 $660.72

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 8 $191.04

Equipment Operators, Light 232 Includes: Skid Steer Loaders, Hydraulic Excavators <50 HP, Trenchers 

<12 in., Ag Equipment <150 HP, Pickup Trucks, Forklifts, Mulchers

Hours $31.14 8 $249.12

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Herbicide, Imazapyr 336 Pre and post-emergent, non-selective herbicide for control of 

undesirable vegetation in non-crop areas. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $42.89 10 $428.90
Practice: E666H - Increase on-site carbon storage

Scenario: #1 - Increase on-site carbon storage

Scenario Description:

Use forest management techniques to maintain and increase on-site carbon storage. These include, but are not limited to, applying uneven-aged management, using 

longer rotations, retaining cavity/den trees, snags, and down woody debris, and protecting or increasing soil organic material.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 40.00

Scenario Total Cost: $1,401.92

Scenario Cost/Unit: $35.05

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Labor

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 13 $1,401.92
Practice: E666I - Crop tree management for mast production

Scenario: #1 - Crop tree management for mast production

Scenario Description:

Forest stand improvement using crop tree management techniques to increase mast production

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $4,153.77

Scenario Cost/Unit: $415.38

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 25 $159.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 25 $2,064.75

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 25 $597.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 10 $192.80
Practice: E666J - Facilitating oak forest regeneration

Scenario: #1 - Facilitating oak forest regeneration

Scenario Description:

Facilitate oak regeneration following a forest stand improvement treatment for natural oak regeneration (i.e., a regeneration cut). After a regeneration cut, oaks in the 

seedling and sapling stages are often out-competed by invasive brush and undesirable tree and shrub species. This enhancement will release seedling and sapling oaks 

from competing invasive plants and other undesirable species, and thin stump sprouts. A forester will monitor site conditions, treat competition, protect seedlings, and 

recommend additional follow-up treatments as needed. The enhancement protects investments in oak regeneration by providing for follow-up activities that require the 

expertise of a professional forester.

Before Situation:

Naturally regenerated oak seedlings and/or saplings are threatened by competition from undesirable vegetation.

After Situation:

Oaks in the forest stand are free from competition and have adequate space and light to allow them to grow into the forest canopy.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $16,109.82

Scenario Cost/Unit: $644.39

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 6 $38.16

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 10 $825.90

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 56 $1,337.28

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 34 $3,666.56

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 5 $61.95

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 5 $170.80

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 5 $8.05

Tree shelter, solid tube type, 4 in. 1566

x 48 in.

4 inch x 48 inch tree tube for protection from animal damage. Materials 

and shipping only.

Each $5.29 1250 $6,612.50

Cable ties, plastic 1575 Plastic cable ties (typ. 8-12 in.) to assist in securing items. Materials only. Each $0.07 2500 $175.00

Stakes, wood, 3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 48 1582

in.

3/4 in. x 3/4 in. x 48 in. wood stakes to fasten items in place. Includes 

materials only.

Each $2.09 1250 $2,612.50
Practice: E666K - Creating structural diversity with patch openings

Scenario: #1 - Creating structural diversity with patch openings

Scenario Description:

Forest stand improvement that creates patch openings. Size, shape, and arrangement of patches will be based on natural features, and emulate patches that would result 

from natural disturbance regimes of wind or fire, varying geographically and by forest type, and by tree species desired from natural regeneration. The treatment will 

create diversity in stand composition and structure, increase pest resistance, and enhance wildlife food availability. Openings may provide regeneration sites and restore 

natural plant communities, and achieve or maintain a desired understory plant community for wildlife habitat. 

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 15.00

Scenario Total Cost: $8,155.20

Scenario Cost/Unit: $543.68

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 150 $954.00

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 15 $384.00

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 150 $3,582.00

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 30 $3,235.20
Practice: E666L - Forest Stand Improvement to rehabilitate degraded hardwood stands

Scenario: #1 - Forest Stand Improvement to rehabilitate degraded hardwood stands

Scenario Description:

Hardwood forestland has been subject to poor logging practices ("high-grading") for decades. Without professional forestry assistance the best species and individual 

trees are removed, often before maturity ("diameter-limit cutting"), leaving the poorest species and individual trees to regenerate the stand. Reversing this process 

requires cutting or killing poor quality trees while retaining any desirable species that might still be present. A combination of 3 silvicultural methods are applied: crop tree 

release, group selection (all trees removed from an area 0.25 to 1.0 acre in size) and small clear-cuts (all trees removed from an area 1-3 acres in size).

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acres treated

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $6,093.18

Scenario Cost/Unit: $609.32

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 16 $101.76

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 2 $51.20

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 40 $3,303.60

All terrain vehicles, ATV 965 Includes equipment, power unit and labor costs. Hours $18.30 16 $292.80

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 16 $382.08

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 8 $862.72

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Triazine 1321 Broad spectrum herbicide. Refer to WIN-PST for product names and 

active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $66.83 10 $668.30

Mobilization

Mobilization, small equipment 1138 Equipment <70 HP but can't be transported by a pick-up truck or with 

typical weights between 3,500 to 14,000 pounds.

Each $306.82 1 $306.82
Practice: E666O - Snags, den trees, and coarse woody debris for wildlife habitat

Scenario: #1 - Snags, den trees, and coarse woody debris for wildlife habitat

Scenario Description:

Improve wildlife habitat through creation and retention of snags, den trees, forest stand structural diversity, and coarse woody debris on the forest floor, to provide 

cover/shelter for native wildlife species.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $560.61

Scenario Cost/Unit: $56.06

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 7 $44.52

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 1 $25.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 3 $247.77

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 7 $223.44

Materials

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 1 $19.28
Practice: E666P - Summer roosting habitat for native forest-dwelling bat species

Scenario: #1 - Summer roosting habitat for native forest-dwelling bat species

Scenario Description:

Create new potential roost trees within upland and riparian forests to achieve desired summer habitat for forest-dwelling bat species.

Before Situation:

Resources are protected at the minimum level of the Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand Improvement

After Situation:

The adoption of this enhancement will provide resource protection above the minimum level as described in Conservation Practice Standard (CPS) 666 - Forest Stand 

Improvement

Feature Measure: Acre

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 10.00

Scenario Total Cost: $2,368.45

Scenario Cost/Unit: $236.85

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 13 $82.68

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 6 $153.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 13 $1,073.67

Labor

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 13 $310.44

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 4 $431.36

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 10 $123.90

Herbicide, Picloram 337 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Includes 

materials and shipping only.

Acres $19.28 10 $192.80
Practice: E666R - Forest songbird habitat preservation

Scenario: #1 - Forest songbird habitat preservation

Scenario Description:

Adopts guidelines and methods developed by the Forest Bird Initiative of the Vermont Audubon Society, to preserve habitat features following a forest stand 

improvement treatment designed to create habitat for a suite of forest-dwelling neotropical migratory songbirds. It includes developing or updating a forest management 

plan, inspecting and tending forest habitat, and monitoring bird populations. It protects investments in habitat creation by providing for follow-up activities that require 

the expertise of a professional forester or biologist. This enhancement is appropriate for states in the Atlantic Flyway and the Upper Midwest.

Before Situation:

The bird habitat of a forest stand is threatened by undesirable vegetation, including noxious and invasive plants, and tree regeneration of species not favorable to birds. 

Harmful insects and tree diseases may also be present, and storms may have damaged 

After Situation:

The forest stand has retained its habitat features and is utilized by a diversity of neotropical migratory songbirds.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,100.78

Scenario Cost/Unit: $204.03

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 4 $25.44

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 10 $256.00

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 4 $330.36

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 4 $127.68

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 4 $95.52

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 38 $4,097.92

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 2 $24.78

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 4 $136.64

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 4 $6.44
Practice: E666S - Facilitating longleaf pine establishment

Scenario: #14 - Facilitating longleaf pine regeneration and establishment

Scenario Description:

This enhancement facilitates longleaf pine regeneration and establishment following a forest stand improvement treatment for natural regeneration (e.g., a regeneration 

cut), or where longleaf has been previously planted. After a regeneration cut or a planting, competition from invasive brush and undesirable tree and shrub species often 

suppresses successful establishment of longleaf pine. This enhancement will release seedling and sapling longleaf from competing invasive plants and other undesirable 

species. A forester inspects the stand periodically for resource concerns that clients do not have the skills to recognize and assess, conducts regeneration surveys, and 

makes recommendations for corrective actions (typically at one year following initial treatment, and then at intervals of 2-4 years). Undesirable plants competing with 

longleaf pine are mechanically cut and/or receive herbicide spot treatments and/or cut stem treatments, as needed. The herbicides listed in the component section of this 

scenario are for deriving a cost estimate only. Resource concerns include Plant Productivity and Health, and Plant Structure and Composition.

Before Situation:

Naturally regenerated or planted longleaf pine seedlings and/or saplings are threatened by competition from undesirable vegetation.

After Situation:

Longleaf pines in the forest stand are free from competition and have adequate space and light to allow them to grow into the forest canopy.

Feature Measure: Acres

Scenario Unit: Acres

Scenario Typical Size: 25.00

Scenario Total Cost: $5,873.26

Scenario Cost/Unit: $234.93

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service Practice Scenarios - Fiscal Year 2024

South Dakota

Cost Details:

Component Name ID Description Unit Cost QTY Total

Equipment Installation

Chainsaw 937 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $6.36 6 $38.16

Truck, Pickup 939 Equipment and power unit costs. Labor not included. Hours $25.60 16 $409.60

Chemical, spot treatment, single 964

stem application

Ground applied chemical to individual plants or group of plants, e.g., 

backpack sprayer treatment. Equipment and labor cost included.

Hours $82.59 10 $825.90

Labor

Skilled Labor 230 Labor requiring a high level skill set: Includes carpenters, welders, 

electricians, conservation professionals involved with data collection, 

monitoring, and or record keeping, etc.

Hours $31.92 6 $191.52

General Labor 231 Labor performed using basic tools such as power tool, shovels, and 

other tools that do not require extensive training. Ex. pipe layer, 

herder, concrete placement, materials spreader, flagger, etc.

Hours $23.88 30 $716.40

Specialist Labor 235 Labor requiring a specialized skill set: Includes Agronomists, Foresters, 

Biologists, etc. to provide additional technical information during the 

planning and implementation of the practice. Does not include NRCS or 

TSP services.

Hours $107.84 32 $3,450.88

Materials

Tree Marking Paint 313 Trees to be cut through tree marking are physically identified through 

the application of paint on the tree. Typically one quart of paint is used 

to mark one acre of trees. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $12.39 5 $61.95

Herbicide, Triclopyor 338 Refer to WIN-PST for product names and active ingredients. Materials 

and shipping

Acres $34.16 5 $170.80

Herbicide, Surfactant 1095 Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water to produce more 

uniform coverage and penetration of herbicides, and weed killers. 

Paraffin Based Petroleum Surfactant. Refer to WIN-PST for product 

names and active ingredients. Includes materials and shipping only.

Acres $1.61 5 $8.05