USDA NRCS is implementing the Conservation Agricultural Mentoring Program a state-driven program that matches an experienced producer who is passionate about conservation with an NRCS field employee that is new to the job or new to the area.

Our goal through the program is to grow critical relationships with the producers we serve, while at the same time advancing employee knowledge of production agriculture and natural resources in their local area, ultimately enhancing our ability to provide excellent customer service.

How it works

Once matched with a producer mentor, the NRCS employee will go out on the land with them 6-12 times per year for a period of 12-18 months – always during agreed upon times that are convenient for the producer.

Producer mentors provide a safe, low-risk learning environment for employees to advance their knowledge of:

• Common agricultural practices, equipment, inputs and other topics.

• The types of daily challenges and decisions producers face.

• Local resource problems and concerns.

• How producers use conservation practices to address resource concerns.

For more information on the CAMP program visit the Maine NRCS Website.