Idaho farmers turn to CREP as drought threatens 2026 harvests
Southern Idaho farmers are facing a tough summer ahead. Forecasts predict hot and dry conditions in 2026, adding pressure to an already challenging growing season. As a result, many are now looking at the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) as a possible solution to ease the strain on their land.
One success story comes from the Mini-Cassia area, where an agricultural field has already been converted into CREP ground. The site now supports a well-established stand of grasses, demonstrating the program's potential for land restoration.
The CREP boundary map highlights eligible counties and regions where producers can apply. This helps farmers identify whether their land qualifies for the initiative. As of March 2026, 28 U.S. states have been approved to take part in CREP. Idaho is among them, alongside California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.
With extreme weather on the horizon, CREP offers a way for farmers to protect their soil and reduce financial risk. The program's growing approval across states suggests more producers may turn to it as conditions worsen. Eligible landowners can now review the boundary map and consider applying before the summer heat sets in.
