Many programs are available to assist landowners. NRCS provides technical assistance on all these programs. Large acreages are enrolled periodically through a traditional national sign-up. There is a continuous sign-up for certain practices such as riparian buffers that affect small acreages. CRP is similar to the old Soil Bank Program of the late 50's and early 60's.
Landowners receive annual payments based on rental rates for specific soil types on their farms.
Some lands offered in the continuous sign-up receive an additional 20 percent. Landowners also receive 50 percent cost-share to install eligible practices. CRP has changed from its original goal of treating highly erodible cropland and the reduction of crop surpluses. Originally, only land with a cropping history was eligible. Marginal pastureland suitable for riparian buffers and cropped wetlands were recently added.