Payment program
Working Grasslands Partnership (South Dakota)
Ducks Unlimited
What you can get
Annual incentive payments for the first three years during native grass establishment (to offset reduced grazing income) plus livestock infrastructure resources for fencing and water; 10-year agreement • Official page: 'Thanks to a $25 million award from the USDA's Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), this initiative aims to convert or restore over 25,000 acres of marginal cropland and degraded land over the next five years.' and 'Participants commit to a 10-year agreement during which restored native grasses can be grazed or hayed after the establishment period.' Payment rates are not published.
- Readiness
- Ready to apply
- Who can apply
- producer, South Dakota farmers, ranchers and landowners converting marginal cropland or degraded land to native grass
- Coverage
- SD
- Deadline & timing
- No sign-up deadline published; interest/application via Google Form linked from the official page.
Optional expert service · $249
Turn program research into an application package.
An eligibility screen for one farm, a shortlist of up to three relevant programs, and draft practice justifications and a document checklist for one selected application. Delivered within 7 business days after intake.
Last verified Nov 5, 2026. Always confirm current terms and deadlines on the official site before applying.
Plan your next step
Run a quick soil assessment or ask an agronomist how this program fits your fields.