7 CFR §1469.9

1. (a)NRCS may use the services of NRCS-approved or certified Technical Service Providers in performing its responsibilities for technical assistance.
2. (b)Technical assistance may include, but is not limited to: Assisting applicants during sign-up, processing and assessing applications, assisting the participant in developing the conservation stewardship plan; conservation practice survey, layout, design, installation, and certification; information, education, and training for producers; and quality assurance activities.
3. (c)NRCS retains approval authority over the certification of technical assistance done by non-NRCS personnel.
4. (d)NRCS retains approval authority of the conservation stewardship contracts and contract payments.
5. (e)Conservation stewardship plans will be developed by NRCS certified conservation planners.