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Michigan Conservation Stewardship for Farmers Project (MCSFP)

Direct support for practical,

on-farm improvements

The Michigan Conservation Stewardship for Farmers Project (MCSFP) is a relaunched cost-share program led by the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts (MACD) and local partners.

Formerly known as the Michigan Climate Smart Farms Project, MCSFP has been redesigned to put more resources directly into farmers’ hands. The relaunch shifts funding away from impact tracking, verification programs, and administrative overhead and toward direct payments for on-farm investments that improve farm viability and resilience.

A two-panel photo showing two farmers in denim and caps standing in a lush green field on the left, and an aerial view of a red combine harvester collecting corn in a harvested field on the right.
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What’s Different This Time

The relaunched MCSFP reflects changes in federal administration priorities. 

What’s changed:

  • More funding goes directly to farmers through cost-share payments
  • Less emphasis on measuring and reporting impacts
  • Lean staffing, with savings redirected to on-farm investments

The goal is simple: fewer hoops, clearer expectations, and more dollars invested on farms.

Who the Program is for

MCSFP Farm Collage representing MCSFP farmer support

MCSFP is designed to support farms of all scales and scopes.

Priority will be given to those seeking practical improvements that reduce risk, improve efficiency, or strengthen long-term farm viability, however any farm in good standing with the FSA can apply and will be considered.  

MCSFP farmers interacting photo

Funding Regions & Local Partners

Select a County to Learn More

Michigan Cost-Share Funding Program

Local staff provide outreach, application support, and technical assistance throughout the process.

MCSFP conservationist feeding hogs

Program Contact

For general questions about the Michigan Conservation Stewardship for Farmers Project:

Alex Cacciari (she/her)
Farmer Programs Specialist
alex.cacciari@macd.org

Phone: 734 604 2820

Farmers are encouraged to contact their regional point person listed above for local guidance.

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Funding Acknowledgement

This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, under agreement number NR233A750004G081.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. References to specific products or services do not constitute or imply endorsement.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Close-up of a farmer's boots walking through a sunlit corn field at sunset, kicking up a small cloud of dust.
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