Governor's Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program
Governor's Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program
About The Program
The Governor's Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program is designed to help North Dakota farmers strengthen cropland productivity and resilience with perennial grass cover.
This program is administered by the North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts and delivered by local Soil Conservation Districts and partners
How to Enroll
This program is new in 2026.
Interested producers may contact their local Soil Conservation District to enroll in the LEGACY program.
Producers interested in receiving additional incentives for public access may contact the NDGF Private Lands staff for information about the PLOTS program.
Program Benefits
Perennial cover provides...
- improved soil health,
- water retention,
- wildlife habitat.
Program Details
- Open to all types of cropland.
- 5-year agreement to establish and manage grass.
- Annual rental payment based on the average county rental rate.
- Cost-share for grass seed and seeding - $50/acre for seed | $50/acre for establishment.
- $10 per acre crop insurance premium reduction for every acre of perennial grass established.
- Optional $15 per acre public access incentive through NDGFD’s Private Land Open To Sportsmen program.
The LEGACY Framework
Guiding Principles
- Land Stewardship
- Ecology and Energy
- Growth and Governance
- Agriculture and Access
- Conservation and Collaboration
- Yield and Your Future
North Dakota Game and Fish | ND Outdoor Heritage Fund | ND Soil Conservation Districts