For agricultural producers, conservation means sustainably managing and protecting natural resources—soil, water, air, plants, and animals—to ensure the long-term productivity and health of their land.
That is why SPI works to highlight practices like erosion control, efficient water use, habitat preservation (for wildlife and pollinators), soil health improvement, and grazing management to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining strong agricultural yields.
SPI believes that by prioritizing conservation, producers can strengthen the resilience of their operations by fostering healthier ecosystems that are better equipped to withstand extreme weather. It also creates economic opportunities through cost-saving practices, government incentives, and access to new markets that value sustainable products, all while contributing to a healthier environment for future generations.
Conservation
OUR PARTNER IN CONSERVATION: USDA-NRCS
For over 80 years, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has helped America’s farmers, ranchers, and landowners conserve our nation’s resources through assistance programs and science-based solutions. At SPI, we believe these services can be incredibly valuable to small producers, and we’re proud to partner with them.
With representatives in nearly every county in Texas, their natural resource professionals have a thorough, first-hand understanding and appreciation of the challenges and limitations unique to the Texas landscape. These skills allow them to develop conservation plans and provide advice on the design, layout, construction, management, operation, maintenance and evaluation of voluntary conservation practices.
Through on-farm and in-person meetings, their team is able to provide both technical and financial assistance to help farmers reach their conservation goals.
Find out how NRCS and SPI are working together in your area by attending one of our on-farm workshops!
To learn more about NRCS’ conservation programs & initiatives, visit USDA NRCS and view the downloadable resources below: