Pollinator Habitat Incentive Program

American Farmland Trust, in partnership with Syngenta, offers incentive payments for new acres of pollinator habitat planted in the Midwest region through the Pollinator Habitat Incentive Program.

Background: Pollinators are essential to crop production—1/3 of crops grown in the United States require pollination. Despite being essential to agriculture, pollinators are in steep decline. One of the leading causes of pollinator decline is the loss of habitat.

Geographic Scope: Midwest Region

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must plant new acres of pollinator habitat (not existing habitat)
• Located in the Midwest Region
• Minimum area of 1 acre or more
• On or adjacent to agricultural land
• Must plant no later than November 15, 2026

Program Compatibility: The Pollinator Habitat Incentive Program is eligible for combination with other financial assistance programs, including USDA programs such as:

• Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
• Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP)

Applicants enrolled in USDA programs are encouraged to notify their program specialists of their intent to apply, as this incentive payment may count towards establishment costs.

Contact Information:

• Floreal Crubaugh, Midwest Farmland Associate
• Jean Brokish, Midwest Deputy Director

Resources:

• Pollinator Habitat Planting and Maintenance Guide (available for guidance on establishment and habitat management)

Application Process

How to Apply:

1. Apply through the 2025-2026 application cycle
2. Applicants must plant by November 15, 2026

Application Materials:

• Contact program for specific application requirements and materials

Support Available:

• Applicants can access the Pollinator Habitat Planting and Maintenance Guide for establishment or habitat management guidance