East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo, Michael Bennet, and Roger Marshall have introduced new legislation aimed at improving access to Technical Service Providers (TSP) for the agricultural community. Amid ongoing shortages, the bill, known as S. 1150, or the Increased TSP Access Act of 2025, seeks to address these concerns.

Senator Crapo emphasized the need for TSPs in Idaho, stating, “Idaho’s farmers and ranchers actively participate in conservation efforts to enhance the environment and preserve the long-term viability of our agriculture industry.” He noted that success depends on the availability of third-party technical service providers who cover a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Senator Bennet expressed a sense of urgency as Colorado potentially faces hotter and drier conditions. He commented, “The future of rural America depends on whether the next generation decides to continue their family farms and ranches – and to protect that future, the Increased TSP Access Act makes assistance more accessible.”

Senator Marshall described the need to increase the number of TSPs as a “commonsense approach” to overcoming roadblocks hindering participation in USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programs. He pointed out that professionals like Certified Crop Advisors are already skilled in helping farmers meet various conservation goals.

Technical Service Providers (TSPs) play a vital role in USDA conservation efforts. Under the NRCS, they provide personalized assistance to agricultural producers and landowners, tackling issues like soil erosion, water supply, quality, and more. However, a significant backlog has developed, leaving numerous farmers waiting for necessary conservation planning support.

The new legislation builds on efforts outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill, which lacked adequate deadlines and regulations for implementing TSP certification through non-federal entities. S. 1150 proposes a 180-day time frame for the USDA to establish this certification process, streamline the certification pipeline, and ensure fair compensation for TSP services.

The bill has garnered support from various agricultural organizations, including Ducks Unlimited and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives. Chuck Conner, the council's president and CEO, praised the initiative, saying it "acknowledges the critical role co-ops play in American agriculture."

Additionally, Adam Putnam, Ducks Unlimited CEO, said, “Ducks Unlimited agronomists and biologists work closely with NRCS to provide technical assistance to landowners.” He believes the legislation will make conservation practices more accessible and flexible for producers.

In the House of Representatives, U.S. Representative James Baird has led the companion legislation.