Priority areas are determined by a process that begins with local work groups. State Conservationist, who selects those areas within the State based on the recommendations from the State Technical Committee. Their recommendations go to the NRCS-designated conservationist for the local area and then to the State Conservationist, who sets priorities with the advice of the State Technical Committee. The recommendations are integrated into regional and national strategic plans. These strategic plans provide a basis for funding decisions.
Eligibility is limited to persons who are engaged in livestock or agricultural production.
Eligible land includes cropland, rangeland, pasture, forestland, and other farm or ranch lands where the program is delivered. The 1996 Farm Bill prohibits owners of large confined livestock operations from being eligible for cost-share assistance for animal waste storage or treatment facilities. However, technical, educational, and financial assistance may be provided for other conservation practices on these large operations. In general, USDA has defined a large confined livestock operation as an operation with more than 1,000 animal units in confinement. But, because of differences in operations and environmental circumstances across the country, the national definition of a large confined livestock operation may be amended in each State by the NRCS State Conservationist, after consultation with the State Technical Committee, and approval of the NRCS Chief.