By Chris Maestas, NRCS Public Affairs Specialist

BISMARCK, N.D. — How well are conservation practices working on America’s farms and ranches? A nationwide survey led by the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service aims to answer that question.

The Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) Survey measures how voluntary conservation practices improve soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on cultivated cropland across the United States.

The survey is a collaboration between NRCS and USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). NASS representatives began contacting producers in November 2025 and will continue through spring 2026 to determine eligibility and gather information. Approximately 23,000 agricultural operators nationwide will be screened for participation.

“The Conservation Effects Assessment Project helps NRCS understand how conservation practices are working on real farms and ranches,” said Jody Forman, NRCS state resources inventory coordinator for North Dakota. “The information gathered provides valuable science to guide conservation planning and improve how we deliver programs.”

CEAP is a multi-agency effort led by NRCS that evaluates the environmental outcomes of voluntary conservation practices across the nation’s working lands.

“CEAP provides the science behind the conservation work we support every day,” said Dan Hovland, NRCS state conservationist for North Dakota. “The results help ensure we’re providing farmers and ranchers with the most effective tools to protect soil, water and wildlife habitat while maintaining productive operations.”

Survey responses are confidential and used only for statistical and research purposes. The data collected will contribute to the next CEAP Cropland Assessment, which evaluates conservation outcomes across U.S. cropland and helps guide future conservation efforts.

Published on March, 24, 2026