When we introduced the Premium Partnership, we focused on one of its most visible benefits: a contract value that is 25% higher than the standard Family Forest Carbon Program offer. But the value of this pathway extends beyond the upfront incentive. 

One of the key steps in the Premium Partnership is establishing a Farm Record through your local Farm Service Agency (FSA) Service Center. While this step is required to receive the increased incentive payment, it also makes it easier for family forest owners to access additional USDA programs and conservation resources in the future. 

What Is a Farm Record? 

A Farm Record is a file established with the USDA Farm Service Agency that identifies your property and connects it to USDA program systems. While agricultural producers commonly have Farm Records, many family forest owners do not. 

Through the Premium Partnership, enrolled landowners work with their local FSA office to: 

• Establish Farm Records for enrolled forestland 
• Complete required eligibility forms 
• Provide annual compliance documentation to FFCP 

The FFCP team can help guide landowners through each step of the process. 

Some additional USDA programs include: 

Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) 

ACEP helps landowners protect agricultural land, wetlands, and grasslands through voluntary conservation easements. Depending on the type of easement and your property goals, this may include: 

• Protecting working lands from development 
• Conserving wetlands and wildlife habitat 
• Supporting long-term agricultural and forest use 
• Preserving conservation values for future generations 

Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) 

CSP supports landowners who want to build on existing conservation practices and continue improving long-term forest management over time. 

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) 

EQIP provides technical and financial assistance for conservation practices on working lands. Depending on your property and goals, this may include: 

• Invasive species management 
• Forest stand improvement 
• Tree planting 
• Wildlife habitat enhancement 

Healthy Forests Reserve Program (HFRP) 

HFRP focuses on restoring and protecting forest ecosystems through conservation-focused management activities that support wildlife habitat, forest resilience, and biodiversity. 

National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) 

NWQI provides financial and technical assistance for conservation practices that help improve water quality in priority watersheds. This may include: 

• Reducing erosion and runoff 
• Improving soil health 
• Protecting streams and waterways 
• Supporting conservation practices that improve water quality over time 

Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) 

Working Lands for Wildlife supports conservation practices that improve wildlife habitat while maintaining productive working lands. Depending on your property and goals, this may include: 

• Wildlife habitat enhancement 
• Forest and grassland management 
• Conservation planning for at-risk species 
• Practices that support both land productivity and ecosystem health 

Landowners interested in exploring additional USDA conservation opportunities can view a broader list of available programs through the USDA NRCS Programs & Initiatives Page. 

More Than an Increased Payment 

Establishing a Farm Record can also create access beyond USDA conservation programs. For some landowners, it may help connect their property to additional federal assistance, including disaster relief programs through FEMA and other agencies. Having this information on file can make it easier to navigate available support when unexpected events impact your land. 

That broader access is part of the purpose behind the Premium Partnership. In addition to the increased financial benefit, the program is designed to help landowners connect with long-term conservation and forestry resources that can improve forest health, strengthen timber quality, and support the long-term value of their woods. 

For landowners planning ahead, that can mean more tools to actively manage their forests, protect important natural resources, and make decisions that support both stewardship and future timber value. The goal is to create benefits that extend beyond the contract itself.