Photo: University of Minnesota Extension
Farmers for Soil Health has reopened enrollment for 2026, offering farmers higher payments and a simplified contract aimed at encouraging more cover crop adoption across U.S. farmland. The farmer-led initiative, launched in 2022 by the Soy Checkoff, Pork Checkoff, and the National Corn Growers Association, is increasing payments to $35 per acre on up to 2,000 acres.
The program has also reduced contracts to a one-year commitment, giving growers more flexibility. Enrollment runs through Aug. 31.
“Cover crops aren’t just good for the soil — they’re good for the bottom line,” said Indiana farmer Jim Douglas, a farmer advisor for Farmers for Soil Health. “The $35-per-acre payment on a simplified one-year contract removes a lot of the risk that keeps people on the fence.”
The initiative aims to double U.S. cover crop acres by 2030 and is supported by a $95 million USDA grant. Technical advisors remain available to help farmers enroll and implement practices successfully.
NAFB news service
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