The Advancing Markets for Producers in South Carolina (AMPSC) project provides financial incentives to farmers and landowners in South Carolina working with peanuts, leafy greens, forages for beef cattle, or forestry. These opportunities support the implementation of selected NRCS Conservation Practice Standards (CPS) that enhance productivity, sustainability, and market access. In addition to conservation practice payments, AMPSC offers targeted options such as training reimbursements, cost-share assistance, and certification support — all tailored to the needs of South Carolina producers and landowners.
Only operations located in South Carolina that are registered with the Farm Service Agency (FSA) will be considered for enrollment. Additionally, all participants must register as a supplier in Clemson University's procurement system to receive any incentive payments. Instructions for completing this registration will be provided once eligibility is confirmed.
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Incentives for Implementation of Conservation Practices
AMPSC offers financial incentives for the implementation of selected NRCS Conservation Practice Standards (CPS) on enrolled fields, provided on a per-acre per-year basis. These incentives are designed to help offset the costs of conservation efforts and support long-term sustainability on your operation.
While enrolled farmers are not required to attend training events, ongoing education related to the enrolled conservation practices is highly encouraged. Enrolled producers who attend an approved local training can receive an additional incentive of $150 per operation per year. A selection of approved trainings can be found in the Training Calendar, and the training incentive will be issued with proof of attendance.
Please note: Enrollment for this opportunity is limited, and interested producers are encouraged to check the website regularly for updates on available participation spaces.
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Cost-Share for GAP Certification
Available to leafy greens and peanut producers, this incentive provides $200 per year to help offset annual audit costs, time, and effort associated with obtaining or renewing Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) certification. This support helps producers maintain high standards for food safety and strengthen market opportunities.
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Reimbursement for Forest Trainings
Available to forestry landowners, these incentives provide compensation to support participation in approved forestry skills and safety trainings. Eligible participants may receive $300 for attending a Chainsaw Safety Training and $400 for attending a Portable Sawmill Training. These opportunities are designed to offset registration and travel costs while promoting safe practices, skill development, and value-added management of forest resources.
Approved trainings are listed in the Training Calendar, and reimbursement is available with documentation of attendance.
